Apple launches 3G iPad

device wore off earlier this month with WiFi iPad launch, today is another big day for Apple that marks the arrival of a beefier iPad version officially called WiFi+3G iPad.

While 3G iPads will first ship to those who pre-ordered them, the gizmo will be available for direct purchase at Apple’s nationwide retails stores at 5pm. According to 9to5Mac, Apple’s retail spots will close down between 4pm and 5pm, a standard procedure ahead of big product launches at Apple. Retail stores will host special iPad workshops to help you familiarize with the device and a free personal service that includes basic setup of the device. If you show up early, who knows – you may spot Steve Jobs or Jonathan Ive on a reconnaissance mission

3G iPad packs in all the features of its WiFi counterpart and adds support for broadband Internet via 3G cellular and a GPS sensor for accurate geographical positioning in location-based apps. The device is a $130 extra on top of the $499/$599/$600 price points for the 16GB/32GB/64GB WiFi models, meaning you’ll be paying $629/$729/$829 for a 16GB/32GB/64GB WiFi+3G iPad. apple promise earlier this month to debut 3G iPad in US by April 30 and by the end of May to Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Switzerland and the UK. International pricing will be announced on May 10 when Apple will begin taking pre-orders outside the US.

AT&T is offering two contract-free data plans that can be activated or canceled anytime, directly on the device: The $15 a month plan includes 250MB of data and the $30 a month service includes unlimited 3G data.