Core Group, which distributes Apple products in SA, has cut the price of the iPad 2 by as much as R1 400, fuelling rumours that the third-generation iPad, launched this week by Apple CEO Tim Cook, could go on sale in the country in the next few months.

Prices of all iPad 2’s have been cut, with reductions of between R1 000 and R1 400, depending on the model. The new prices follow news that Apple will launch the new iPad in half a dozen countries (SA is not on the list) on 16 March.

“We don’t have confirmation on local availability for the new iPad,” says Core Group communications manager Taryn Hyam.

US pricing of the iPad 2 has been reduced by US$100 across the board, while in SA the Wi-Fi-only models have been reduced by R1 000 for all models. Tablets with Wi-Fi and 3G have been reduced by up to R1 400.

The 16GB, 32GB and 64GB Wi-Fi only models now cost R3 999, R5 199 and R6 199 respectively. The 16GB, 32GB and 64GB Wi-Fi and 3G models now cost R5 299 for the 16GB (down by R1 200); R6 599 for the 32GB version (a R1 000 cut); and R7 299 for the 64GB model (down by R1 400). — Staff reporter, TechCentral