Apple debuts iPad

SAN FRANCISCO Apple has introduced its much-anticipated iPad, a device for browsing the Web, reading and sending email, viewing photos, watching videos, listening to music, playing games and reading e-books, among other applications.

According to Apple, the iPad, which features touch-screen technology similar to that of the iPhone and iTouch, measures 0.5 inches and weighs 1.5 pounds making it lighter and thinner than any laptop or netbook. The iPad also comes with 12 exclusive applications and will run most of the apps available in the Apple App Store. The iPad will be available in late March starting at $499 for the 16GB model.

“iPad is our most advanced technology in a magical and revolutionary device at an unbelievable price,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO. “iPad creates and defines an entirely new category of devices that will connect users with their apps and content in a much more intimate, intuitive and fun way than ever before.”