Apple Store down, iPad 2 pre-order page going up? [Update]

Every time the Apple Store goes down, a flurry of excitement hits the web. It’s a little funny, but usually portends something big, and we all know what’s happening today. While it seems a bit of a stretch to believe that the iPad 2 would go on sale today, the day Apple unveils it, it’s not beyond reason to assume that a pre-order page is going to go up once the device is announced.According to the Amazon leak from this morning, the iPad 2 may go on sale March 17, which makes a bit more sense than having it available in stores today. When iOS devices are announced by Apple, there is usually a small block of time – about two weeks or more, in some cases – before the gadget becomes available. Perhaps Apple will allow pre-orders of the next-generation iPad starting today, hence the temporarily unavailable Apple Store. And who knows, if you’re the sentimental type, maybe you’ll get the option to have your new iPad engraved before it arrives at your door.We’re just a few hours away from the unveiling of the next iteration of the iPad. You can see our thoughts and guesses here, but don’t forget to check back soon for all the dirty details from the event![Update]
So Apple’s iPad 2 event has wrapped, but we didn’t hear anything about being able to pre-order the iPad 2 before its March 11 launch date. As per Apple’s iPad page, online orders will start on the same day as in-store sales. We’ll keep you updated on any changes.

[Via: Apple]