Apple channel pleasantly surprised by new iPad allocations

APRs pleased at vendor's unexpected munificence

Channel sources have reported being pleasantly surprised by the amount of new iPad units they are set to receive when the latest incarnation of Apple's tablet device launches this Friday.

Onlookers in the Mac maker's Authorised and Premium Reseller (APR) channel have indicated that the number of iPads being dished out has massively exceeded the previous two iterations of the product.

A representative of one APR, who wished to remain anonymous, told ChannelWeb the firm had "hundreds" of the new iPad (pictured). The source was confident the APR would have enough to meet customer demand.

"We are going to get quite a bit of stock, it is a lot better than it was last year," said the source. "Apple has been a lot more switched on [to the channel]. We are very happy."

In previous years, many APRs have found their unit volumes at launch limited to well under 100.

It emerged today that Apple has sold out its initial allocation of new iPads through its web store. UK consumers wanting to order online are advised that they can expect a wait of up to three weeks for their unit to be despatched.

Dave Stevinson, director at distributor VIP Computers, predicted that initially, anyone outside the Authorised Apple channel will find the vendor's latest tablet "in incredibly short supply".

"They will prioritise their own stores and approved resellers," he added. "It will be six months before distribution sees any."