iPad 2 launches in China to long lines, scalpers

Apple today officially launched the iPad 2 in China to lengthy lines. M.I.C. Gadget reports that the Apple Store in Beijing sold out in just four hours, while AppleInsider notes that online orders opened with a shipping estimate of one to two weeks. Both reports indicate that scalpers were seen in line and outside of the store, where they were selling units for a markup of 200-400 yuan (roughly $30-$60) over the regular prices, which start at 3688 yuan (~$568). Notably, only iPad 2 with Wi-Fi models were available, as the 3G model has yet to launch in the country. Apple COO Tim Cook said during the company’s recent Q2 2011 Financial Results Conference Call that Apple’s focus has very much been on China, where the company saw a “sea change” in sales last quarter; revenue from China was over $5 billion for the first half of the year.