iPad Air, Mini land at Staples retail stores
Apple's tablet lineup was previously available just through Staples' online store.
Staples customers hunting for a new iPad Air or Mini can now find one on actual store shelves.
Calling your local Staples outlet now greets you with a recorded message telling you that you can buy a new iPad either online or in stores. Previously, the devices were available through Staples just online.
The lineup includes the iPad Air starting at $499 and the Retina iPad Mini starting at $399. Staples customers also can score as much as $300 by trading in an older iPad and earn 5 percent back in rewards credits.
Will you actually find the new iPads in stock at your neighborhood Staples store? Your mileage may vary. A salesman at one Staples store told me that it had both the Air and new Mini in stock, while someone at another store said only the Mini was available.
Staples also sells the iPod and a wide range of Apple accessories, including cases, covers, and cables. But the iPhone is still persona non grata. A Staples store rep told me that the company first wants to see how the iPad fares among retail buyers.