Lauch Day Buying Experience
I bought an iPad2 on launch day last year, and I wanted to share my experience. Long story short: location and flexibility really help.
I took a half day last year (not specifically to get the iPad2) and went by the local Apple Store. By the time I got there (just after lunch) the line was about 125 deep (I quickly counted, so I could have been off by a few). I wanted to an iPad2, but not so bad that I was going to stand in line for hours. I decided to go get coffee and a bite to eat and see what the line did. If it didn't get too much bigger as it approached 5pm, I was willing to get into it.
After a few hours of eating, drinking, and browsing a local book store, I returned. The line had easily doubled (before loosing site around a corner) with still 2 hours to go, so I decided to move on. On my way home I drove by the local Best Buy. The line didn't appear nearly as long, but it still was very significant, so I decided to pass. I had heard that Target was selling the iPad2, though only in limited options (16GB White WiFi only, and 32GB Black WiFi only, if I recall). I stopped by the Target that happened to be a hop, skip and a jump from the Best Buy.
The Target had 5 to sell, but were already accounted for. They were taking names for the waiting list, in case someone didn't show in the first hour, they would start going through the waiting list. I would have been 12 on the waiting list. There was a Target closer to my home, however, and I asked them if they would call. They did. There were 10 at that store, but only the 16GB White WiFi only, first come first server with none accounted for.
I drove to my local Target arriving a few minutes before 5pm. I was number 3. By 5:05pm I was out the door with my new iPad2 in hand (and the Target Red card's 5% discount). Home by 5:15, playing with my new toy.
I can't say that Target will have the iPad3, or what quantities of models, but I think they are worth trying if you try and get an iPad3 at launch. I would also look at other vendors, especially if they are not the normal channels.
Cheers.
