New iPad: queues start already

Look at these eager beavers. The new iPad doesn't go on sale until Friday, but they've already started queuing, nearly a week early. Insane.

Ali and Zohaib are the first in line outside Apple's Regent Street store in London, SlashGear reports. And they've come prepared, with folding chairs and warm clothes to help brave the cold. Let's hope they're not disappointed by the new iPad.

It's not out of the ordinary for people to start queuing early for a new Apple product, but nearly a week in advance seems a bit crazy to me. They do know it's basically the same as the last one, right? Still, I have to admire their dedication.

Perhaps these guys have the right idea though. Stocks in-store are said to be low, and if you want to pre-order the new iPad online, you're looking at a two to three week wait. So if you're keen, maybe you should get yourself down there. Just take the week off, your boss will understand. It's practically Easter anyway.

The new iPad was announced on Wednesday night. It comes with a new retina display that has four times the resolution of the iPad 2's screen, which means you can't see the individual pixels even when zoomed in on pictures. There's a faster processor and improved camera, though it is a little bulkier and heavier than its predecessor.

Our very own Luke Westaway is no stranger to queuing for a new Apple product -- here he is in action. And here as well. It's sure to be quite a scrum on Friday morning when the Apple store's doors open.

Is it crazy queuing almost a week early? Will there be stock shortages? Or do you think Apple is saying that just to generate hype? Let me know in the comments below, or over on Facebook. Right, I'm off to start the queue for the iPhone 5. See you in October.

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