Prices and availability have been announced for the new iPad. Pre-orders start today with public availability on Friday, March 16th. The device will be sold in black and white and start at the same price of $499.

Pricing:

• 16GB WiFi – $499
• 32GB WiFi – $599
• 64GB WiFi – $699
• All 4G models are $130 extra

The tablet will be launching in 10 counties next Friday (including the U.S. and U.K.), with complete international availability happening a week later.

Update: Pre-orders are live!

[image via AllThingsD]