Apple announced on Monday that 3 million new iPads have been sold since its launch last Friday.
"The new iPad is a blockbuster with 3 million sold -- the strongest iPad launch yet," said Philip Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. "Customers are loving the incredible new features of iPad, including the stunning Retina display, and we can't wait to get it into the hands of even more customers around the world this Friday."

"We had a record weekend, and we are thrilled with it," Apple's chief executive officer Tim Cook said earlier Monday at a conference call to announce a dividend and stock buyback program.

The third generation iPad is now available in 12 countries and regions, and will be available in 24 more this Friday through the Apple online store, retail stores and some authorized sellers.

The new Apple tablet is the company's first 4G LTE-capable device, featuring Retina display, HD camera and faster processors. So far, the device got mostly positive reviews from gadget reviewers and customers.

VietNamNet/Xinhuanet