The much anticipated release date of the Apple iPad in Australia is yet to be confirmed. However there are a number of programming issues that need to be resolved before the tablet computer can hit Australian shops.

One of the computer's main offerings is an iBooks store which operates in the same way that iTunes does but for literary content.

This application is currently not available outside of the US. Apple says it is now working to make it a global program.

The iPad has so far achieved huge success in the US with many lining the streets to get their hands on Apple's latest offering. The US release has been closely followed by news that Apple will incorporate advertising in its apps. Around 185,000 of the company's applications will soon carry advertising embedded in their design.