preorder or wait

If you preorder you will get it on launch day. But I suspect you won't have a problem getting on launch day either. Apple must have been stockpiling them for a month or so now.

 

Do we know when Apple store will have display units out?

 

Apple probably wont have display units out until November 2nd when they will be available in stores. that's the way its always been with every iPad, so I dont think Apple will change that. personally I'm not sure if I'll pre-order or not. I might try going to my local BestBuy next Friday to see if any are available. if not I can always order online and then wait for it to come in.

 

Based on a phone call to my local Apple store today, this is correct; display models in store on 11/2/12.

 

When does preorder start??

 

October 26, probably 12:01am PST / 3:01am EST

 

I do know some mall's opened early for the iPad 3 launch to allow people to wait inside, however they still had to wait for Apple to open their stores. I dont see them selling out on Day 1. I walked into my local BestBuy at 1pm on iPad 3 launch day and they had plenty in stock. a friend was at our local Apple Store late in the day on iPad 3 launch and was able to get the model she wanted. yes its a smaller iPad and that will probably have people wanting to take a look at them. however I dont think they will sell out on Day 1, possibly by sold out after the weekend... take what I say with a spoonful of salt because this is all guess work

 

I imagine it might be different because of the approaching holiday season, but when I preordered the (now not so) new iPad earlier this year for my gf, I thought I was glad I did..until we went to best buy that same day to find a smart cover and there was TONS of new iPads laying around...like I've never seen so many before.

 

I will be waiting in line this time for the iPad Mini...

 

I'd assume people will be camping the Apple Stores as always for launches. You're going to be waiting quite a while if you start lining up in the morning.

The minis will sell like hotcakes. I believe they will run out of stock quite quickly but seeing as how the specs are dated and there's no retina, it won't be as difficult to manufacture and refill stock. But it's also holiday season so...

I prefer to spend the extra gas money and drive to an Apple Store to pick up my goods as well. But it looks like Apple products are switching over to Fall releases now in time for the holidays and the best option (maybe the only) would be to order online.

 

holiday season is near so better to safe than sorry. iPad mini will sell like candy. i bet after launch no available in store in weeks