New iPad: Three million sold in first weekend

The company has called the release of the new device last Friday Apple’s “strongest iPad launch yet”.

THREE MILLION UNITS of Apple’s newly released iPad have sold since the new device was launched last Friday.

The device went on sale in 10 countries before the weekend – going on to become the “strongest iPad launch yet” according to the company. Apple CEO Tim Cook said he was “thrilled” with the result.

“Customers are loving the incredible new features of iPad, including the stunning Retina display, and we can’t wait to get it into the hands of even more customers around the world this Friday,” added Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing.

Apple has announced that it will begin paying a quarterly dividend of $2.65 per share starting this summer after years of resisting the idea. Its late former CEO, Steve Jobs, always thought the company could make better use of its cash.

The new iPad is due to be released in a further 25 countries on Friday 23 March.

Additional reporting by the AP

Apple will use cash for dividends and stock buyback>

Story about abuse at Apple factory was false says US radio show>

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More