Apple shows off new iPad before launch as new iPhone rumours emerge

With just a few days before the iPad hits the shelves in the US, Apple has finally revealed some new information about the device by unveiling a series of tutorials showing users how the device will work.

The release of the video tutorials comes as new rumours of updated iPhone models have been spread across the internet, suggesting a new model will hit shelves by mid-year – as per the company’s usual schedule.

Apple has updated its site with a number of different tutorial videos, showing users how each element of the upcoming iPad works and how to utilise all of its features. Video walkthroughs are provided for the email, Google Maps, iTunes, App Store and the iBooks applications.

A more comprehensive walkthrough is also provided for the iWork applications – the applications designed for users to create office documents, slideshow presentations and spreadsheets.

The company’s attempts to keep demand high for the product may be working. As of last weekend, the company has now said the shipping date for customers in the US will be on April 12, as opposed the original date of April 3.

All original pre-orders will see deliveries on the earlier date, but any new models will be shipped on or after April 12. However, all models with 3G connectivity are still expected to ship in late April.

And while Apple has said the iPad will be available at selected Best Buy stores, leaked information from the chain suggests each location will only have about 15 iPads for sale this coming Saturday.

While some analysts have suggested Apple is struggling to keep up with demand, others say it is actually keeping the iPad “exclusive” and ensuring higher sales for when more supply is produced.

Last year Australia suffered an iPhone shortage when the new 3GS model was released, with some users waiting weeks for their gadgets after the initial release date – the company is no stranger to a “shortage”.

Demand has also grown after leaked pictures of the iPad App Store were posted on tech blogs such as Gizmodo and CrunchGear. The pictures and videos show applications for designers, shopping, television guides and a number of publications.

Games also appear to be a hot item with a version of Flight Control, designed by Melbourne-based iPhone app developer Firemint, already set to be released and revealed in the leaked images.

Meanwhile, new iPhone rumours have emerged suggesting a model will appear later this year that will work on the US Verizon Wireless network.

The Wall Street Journal has reported that, according to “people briefed on the matter”, the new model is being manufactured with CDMA capabilities, a format used by Verizon.

However, a release date of September has been noted by some reports, suggesting this could actually be referring to a second iPhone model to be released this year, which would change up the company’s regular schedule of one release per year.