First Gen iPads now cheaper, recent buyers to receive rebate checks

Just one day after the official March 2^nd announcement of the iPad 2 (see our hands-on preview with the tablet here), Apple has appropriately slashed prices of all original iPad models by at least $100. While the 3G-less 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB models were $499, $599, and $699 at launch, respectively, they can now be grabbed brand new each for $100 less through Best Buy and the online Apple Store. Addtionally, a refurbished 16GB model is further discounted for a starting price of just $349.

Of course, news like this will surely leave very recent iPad purchasers who weren’t keeping up with our constant iPad 2 rumors quite frustrated. Thankfully, in an effort to reduce angry customers, Apple will reportedly hand out $100 rebates to all those who have purchased a model within 14 days of the official iPad 2 announcement. A customer who bought the first gen model online must call Apple customer service for the refund, while those who bought one in-store must make a trip back to the Apple Store with receipt on hand for the rebate, as CNet reports. Fortunately, all refunds will be applied to the buyer’s credit card, so the person will not have to deal with frustrating gift card-type rebates.

This wouldn’t be the first time Apple gave out $100 rebates, however. Back in 2007 when the original 8GB iPhone was released for $599, Apple dropped the price of the model to $399 just months after. As expected, early adopters were quite unhappy to say the least. Apple responded with a $100 credit to all those who purchased the iPhone at the higher price, redeemable towards Apple’s retail or online stores.

As for the March 11^th launch of the iPad 2, prices are expected to mirror that of the first gen iPad launch, that is, start as low as $499 and up to around $800 for the higher-end models. If still interested in the original iPads, however, now may be the time jump in on the bargain bin models by checking out the tablets at the official Apple Store.

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