Quote:
Originally Posted by Pregasviel
Let me explain you if you do not know that, in US you pay 499$ for the most basic Ipad, we paid 499€ here in France, and in the whole European Union i suppose. The variation of those two currencies is not taken in account by apple ( the same issue appears with consoles). So, if we convert, 499$ is equal to 376€, we must pay an extra amount of money of 123€ (163 USD) ...It's quite something ! I looked for ordering an Ipad in USA, but Apple pays attention to foreign credit cards, and i have no relationships in that country. Maybe i will try to come to the USA next year for my studies!
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Some of the increased costs have to do with the cost of doing business in Europe vs. America. Here in the Czech Republic an iPad might cost 600€, but that would include the 20% VAT. Your American price doesn't include any sales tax-- which probably averages about 8-9%-- and though most people think Americans aren't required to pay sales tax for items purchased over the internet... they are, in fact, supposed to do it, though no one does.
Also, when you factor in health care and other labor costs--plus the price of energy here vs. America--it costs more money to operate a store in Europe vs. America. These costs are necessarily passed on to the consumer.
I'm not sucking up to Apple... :-) ...but I doubt they make any more profit off iPads sold here than in America. This is just a guess, though.
back to the OP: the iPad and iPod Touch (4g) are my only reading devices, though I'll buy a Sony 650 in the spring, because (though I love it) the 'Pad is a crap reading device outdoors, IMO. And yes: I'm waiting 'til my next visit to the States to purchase the 650. ;-)