Apple's iPad App Submission Announced

Apple recently announced to developers that it is now accepting iPad applications and from the sounds of it, it seems like applications which are submitted by March 27th will have a chance of being reviewed and approved before the iPad launch next month. An email was sent out to iPhone developers informing them of the March 27th deadline. Since most of all apps developed so far have only been tested in the emulator, this is more of a "feedback" round for devs looking to be ready for the launch without actually testing their apps on hardware. Apple has mentioned that "only apps submitted for the initial review will be considered for the grand opening of the iPad App Store," so you won't want to wait around unless you know you'll be getting one of the iPad test units. This information also suggests that the iPad will have it's own section in iTunes, one that is distinct from from iPhone and iPod Touch applications.

The submitted applications must be built using the iPhone SDK 3.2 beta 5, which is the most recent version of Apple's developer tools and it must be digitally signed and uploaded to Itunes Connect by Saturday, March 27, 5pm Pacific Time in order for it to be considered. By fulfilling those requirements the Apple's App Review Team will take a look at your application and let you know if they think your app is ready for the iPad. If it is, you'll get a nice spot in the iPad's App Store close to it's release day.

No one knows for sure how effective iPad will be although many analysts have said that the iPad is pulling in really good pre-order numbers. Assuming the iPad does well, the iPad's app store would do well along with it. Apple seems to be putting in a good amount of effort with advertising and promoting their upcoming device and many people have theirs on reserve or on pre-order, including us.

Have you pre-ordered or reserved an iPad or do you plan on waiting and seeing how well the device does before spending a chunk of money on it? Share your thoughts and comments below.