
1."The 'i' isn't for 'inexpensive.'"
A record 3 million people ordered the latest version of the iPad during the weekend after its debut on March 16 -- the strongest launch for the device yet. With prices for the new iPad starting at $499 for the 16GB Wi-Fi only version, experts say consumers are paying a premium for the gadget. But they may not realize that premium could cover the cost of making a second iPad. IHS iSuppli, a technology research company that has studied the cost of the iPad's components, estimates Apple spends $375.10 to make the 32GB version of the new iPad with 4G LTE connectivity -- roughly half the retail price.
And the profit margin grows for the more expensive models. While it costs Apple about $16 more to make...