Apple is now accepting application submissions for its forthcoming iPad tablet device. According to details of an Apple email sent out Friday, developers must submit apps created via the iPhone SDK 3.2 beta to iTunes Connect by 5:00 pm PT on March 27 for release in conjunction with the iPad's Apr.3 retail launch. "You will also receive additional information about submitting your app for final review before iPad ships," Apple's e-mail states. "Only apps submitted for the initial review will be considered for the grand opening of the iPad App Store."
Apple has so far granted only a few select developer partners pre-release access to the iPad. Citing four sources familiar with the 10-page non-disclosure agreement preventing partners from spilling details on the iPad, BusinessWeek reports trials must be confined to rooms with blacked-out windows, with the device tethered to a fixed object--moreover, Apple won't hand over the unit until potential partners deliver photographic evidence confirming they've complied with the computing giant's demands. An Apple spokesperson declined to comment.
Despite Apple's demands, developers are eager to exploit the iPad opportunity--last week, mobile application analytics provider Flurry reported that iPhone OS application starts have jumped a staggering 185 percent since Apple announced the iPad on Jan. 27.
For more on iPad app submissions:
- read this Unofficial Apple Weblog article
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