Apple delays iPad UK release after strong US demand

Apple has delayed the British launch of its eagerly awaited iPad touchscreen computer until the end of next month.

The computer firm admitted it cannot make enough of the devices, blaming "surprisingly strong" demand in the United States. It will now begin accepting pre-orders on May 10.

When the iPad launched in America, 300,000 units were sold on its first day. The first iPad models are selling for between $499 and $829 (£328 to £545) in the US.

"Demand is far higher than we predicted and will continue to exceed our supply over the next several weeks," an Apple statement said.

Experts say the move could lead to a rush to import iPads from the US.

"Consumers are desperate for the iPad, and I think a lot of them will resort to the black market to get one," said Tom Dunmore of Stuff magazine.

Although American iPads will work in the UK, users will not be able to download apps for their device without an American account with Apple's iTunes store.