Apple’s backup plan for slow iPad sales? Cut down prices

When the iPad was announced in late January, the biggest part of the announcement was pricing. While camps were separated on just how great the device actually is, one thing most could agree on is that pricing is reasonable. Well, given Apple’s premium nature, of course. Still, for a device that intends to fill the gap between laptops and smartphones, $499 to $829 depending on features is still a little hefty. It wouldn’t be completely surprising if sales start off slow, but Apple has a plan in the event of a lukewarm reception.

According to Credit Suisse analyst Bill Shope, who recently met with Apple executives, Apple is going to be flexible about pricing depending on initial sales. “While it remains to be seen how much traction the iPad gets initially, management noted that it will remain nimble (pricing could change if the company is not attracting as many customers as anticipated),” writes Shope to his clients.

The same was done with the iPhone when it launched back in June 2007. While it wasn’t the poorest of debuts for a new gadget, $599 was a steep price to pay for an 8GB smartphone. Just weeks later, prices were dropped to $399 and those who bought the device at the original sale price were given $100 gifts to spend freely at Apple.

So, if you’re dying for an iPad and you’re typically an early-adopter, take one for the team and just wait. If we ban together and hold off on our impulses, we just might see more attractive pricing options from Apple!

[via Business Insider]