If you buy an iPad and the battery conks out, Apple will replace it with a new iPad, Apple says on a web page called "Battery Replacement Service" (http://www.apple.com/support/ipad/service/battery/).

According to the page, if your iPad requires service due to the battery’s diminished ability to hold an electrical charge, Apple will replace your iPad for a service fee. The service costs $99, plus $6.95 shipping. The total cost is $105.95 per unit.

However, Apple notes: Your iPad is not eligible for Battery Replacement Service if the product has been damaged, for example, as result of an accident, liquid contact, disassembly, unauthorized service or unauthorized modifications, or if the product is not operating correctly as a result of a component failure."

iPad is now available for pre-order. They're due to ship on Saturday, April 3.

At least the Wi-Fi only versions will; the Wi-Fi + 3G model will hit US store sleeves in late April. In addition, all models of iPad will be available in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Switzerland and the UK in late April.

The Wi-Fi iPad sells for a suggested retail price of US$499 for 16GB, $599 for 32GB, $699 for 64GB models. The Wi-Fi + 3G models will be available in late April for a suggested retail price of $629 for 16GB, $729 for 32GB and $829 for 64GB. iPad will be sold in the US through the Apple Store, Apple’s retail stores and select Apple Authorized Resellers.

Apple is also selling iPad accessories. The iPad Keyboard Dock -- which combines a fully functional iPad dock with a slim, compact aluminum Apple keyboard featuring special iPad function keys -- costs $69. The iPad -- which not only protects your iPad, but holds in it positions for typing, viewing slideshows, and watching movies -- is $39.

An iPad Dock is $29, an iPad 10W USB Power Adapter is $29, and an iPad Dock Connector to VGA Adapter is $29. The iPad can also be ordered with the Apple Wireless Keyboard for an additional $69.