According to Japanese business daily Nikkei (subscription required), the iPad 2 is set to be available this week at the seven retail stores run by Apple in Japan. In addition, customers in the Land of the Rising Sun will also be able to buy the touchscreen tablet at SoftBank stores, and via Apple's website.
The iPad 2 was originally set to launch in Japan along with 25 other countries on March 25, but Apple delayed that launch after the deadly earthquake disaster. The company said the delay would allow its teams to focus on recovery, rather than launching a new product.
Following the massive tragedy in Japan, Apple's retail stores were said to have become a rallying point for citizens. Crowds reportedly flocked to Apple's stores to gain INternet access, and recharge their phones so they could make calls and reach loved ones.
Thursday will be a big day for Apple products in Japan, as it is also expected to mark the start of sales of the white iPhone 4 there and around the world. MacRumors on Wednesday confirmed that the white iPhone 4 has been advertised for sale on April 28, while all three carriers in Germany confirmed the same date to Macerkopf.de.
AppleInsider first reported on Sunday that Apple began shipping white iPhone 4 units to its U.S. retail stores over the weekend. The device, which was plagued by production issues, is expected to also go on sale on carriers AT&T and Verizon stateside this week.
The white iPhone 4 was first announced last June, but was delayed numerous times by Apple as the company allegedly had issues with paint mixture. Despite the 10-month delay, at least one Wall Street analyst believes the "mystique" surrounding the elusive device will boost sales, even as rumors of the anticipated fifth-generation iPhone heat up.
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