Apple said today it sold three million iPads in the first three days of its launch of the iPad mini and fourth-generation model of its original format iPad.
The tech giant said demand for iPad mini “exceeded the initial supply,” meaning some orders will be delayed until later this month.
Apple did not break down precise sales of the mini — the 20 centimetre tablet which joins several other small format tablets — and the new iPad, which has a 25 centimetre screen.
“Customers around the world love the new iPad mini and fourth-generation iPad,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s Chief Executive in a statement.
“We set a new launch weekend record and practically sold out of iPad minis. We’re working hard to build more quickly to meet the incredible demand.”
Both iPad mini and the new fourth generation iPad were launched Friday in 34 countries, in Wi-Fi only versions. Apple will be selling the tablets with mobile connectivity in a few weeks.
The iPad mini weighs 0.68 pounds, 53 per cent lighter than Apple’s third generation iPad. It is 7.2 millimetres thick, 23 per cent thinner than the original iPad and thinner than a pencil.
The iPad mini with Wi-Fi connectivity and 16 gigabytes of memory costs $329, the 32GB model sells for $ 429 and the 64GB version for $529. It is more expensive than rivals from Google, Amazon and other makers.