Apple: No iPad pre-orders for you!

Computerworld - Apple is not yet taking orders for the iPad, even though CEO Steve Jobs promised today that the tablet would be available within 60 days.

The Apple online store is taking names and e-mail addresses for later notification, but customers cannot place orders for the new device. "You'll hear back from us as soon as there's more information on ordering iPad," the Apple site states after users enter their names and e-mail addresses into a short form.

Earlier today, Jobs revealed the iPad, a 9.-7-in. tablet that comes in three memory configurations, as well as in two distinct models -- one with Wi-Fi connectivity only, the other with 3G capability as well. Jobs also spelled out a pricing matrix that starts at $499 and ends at $829.

But while the Wi-Fi-only iPad will go on sale in 60 days, or around March 28, Apple is not accepting pre-orders until an undetermined future date. The Wi-Fi-plus-3G iPad will be available in 90 days, or around April 27.

Apple's Web site does contain technical specifications for the iPad, as well as a marketing video and product shots.

Gregg Keizer covers Microsoft, security issues, Apple, Web browsers and general technology breaking news for Computerworld. Follow Gregg on Twitter at @gkeizer, send e-mail to gkeizer@ix.netcom.com or subscribe to Gregg's RSS feed .

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