Rumour: iPad to launch on March 26th in US, earliest adopters to get free gift

While it’s a long way off being an official confirmation, it’s looking increasingly likely that Apple’s much-hyped iPad will be available to North American customers on the 26th of this month - despite rumours earlier in the week that it would be delayed.

According to an anonymous Apple store manager in Southern California the date is looking “very likely” and seems to tie-in with other events taking place in March.

For example, Apple Store staff will be getting hands on training time with the new device on the 10th and TV adverts will start running on US networks on the 15th.

This news would seem to fly in the face of recent rumours that Apple - along with production partner Foxconn - is experiencing manufacturing problems.

The final rumour from this mystery store manager is that those dedicated Apple fans who camp outside the shops to ensure they get their iPads will be rewarded for their perseverance with an as-yet-undisclosed free gift.