This is the first time Apple has ever introduced two new iPads in one quarter and from the looks of it, it was a good idea. In just three days, Apple sold 3M iPads units.
Although intensely scrutinized for the latest gadgets, Apple sold 3 million new iPads and mini iPads in just three days. Both iPad mini and the new iPad had consumers pay the cost of the latest tech gadget, although many argue the devices weren’t all that impressive to begin with. And while the 3M units sold might be a good start, Apple still has a lot more to sell to meet Wall Street’s estimates for the quarter.
The new iPad and iPad mini were intensely criticized, analyzed, compared and from what the numbers show, eventually bought. The iPad mini got most of the heat lately, after Apple released it in the mini tablet market at a staggering price of $329 plus tax. Apparently enough people decided the gadget was worth the price given analysts’ estimates that Apple sold about 2.3 million iPad minis in three days.
Sale figures for iPad mini varied from analyst to analyst since Apple didn’t separate the two products in sales revenue this weekend. Brian Marshall of the ISI Group told his clients that his estimate was for “two-thirds or 2 million plus”.
“Customers around the world love the new iPad mini and fourth generation iPad” said Tim Cook. “We set a new launch weekend record and practically sold out of iPad minis. We’re working hard to build more quickly to meet the incredible demand” the Apple CEO added.
According to analyst Brian White, iPad mini was so successful because people wanted an iPad but at a lower price. It isn’t that much of a difference, particularly when considering what you get for your money. With only $70 you can get a normal iPad 2 and just pay the upgrade to iOS 6.
This was the first time when Apple introduced two new devices in one quarter. Analysts believe it is the company’s way of keeping revenues up, while competitors are getting stronger. However, “there’s still a lot of wood to chop in the quarter” analyst Tavis McCourt told Reuters.
