Judging bytrending topics on Twitter, I was not alone in reserving an iPad today as pre-orders began for the April 3 launch.
The experience was un-Apple-like in the bugs I encountered. Ordering did not work at all on the Apple site in Google’s Chrome browser, but was possible with the odd error page in Internet Explorer.
In Chrome, it wasimpossible to select a store for pickup . In Explorer, the Apple ID login page did not render properly and reported errors – the order process does not require a credit card, only your Apple ID.
However, within seconds I received a confirmation email saying: “We can’t wait to see you at the store.”
Really? Me and hundreds of rabid Apple fans at 9am on a Saturday morning – an hour earlier than they usually open.
The email promises I’ll be “part of an exciting launch at the Apple Store. We’ll have Specialists ready to help you set up your iPad, free workshops, and more.”
I don’t remember that level of attention at the iPhone launch – is it that hard to set up? Where is the learning curve with this oversized iPod touch? Maybe I’ll hang around the store and find out.
For those who prefer to wait for the post, Apple Insider reports online orders come with free home delivery on the day of launch. Reservations are limited to two per person.

