The pieces are falling into place for Apple's big debut of the iPad, that closely watched, long-anticipated next act for the company behind the Mac, the iPod and the iPhone.

With a number of different models and configurations (Wi-Fi and 3G, 16GB to 64GB) on deck for the upcoming mobile device, EnterpriseMobileToday takes a look at Apple's iPad retail rollout and pre-ordering plans -- as well as some of the factors that may make the touchscreen tablet Apple's next hit, or contribute to its first major misstep in ages.

Some models of Apple's much-discussed iPad will become available to U.S. buyers on April 3, the company said today -- answering one of the remaining questions surrounding the sleek-looking, mobile touchscreen device about which the industry has spent the better part of a year buzzing.

However, that date is only for iPad models sporting Wi-Fi connections.

The plans are also somewhat behind initial expectations. During the iPad's introduction in January, CEO Steve Jobs said the iPad would be available within 60 days of launch, which would have been at the end of March.

Read the full story at EnterpriseMobileToday:
Apple Sets iPad Ship Date Amid Cheers and Jeers