Apple Store App Launches for iPad

In an effort to cover all of its money-making bases this holiday season, Apple today released the iPad version of its Apple Store iOS app.

Those unwilling to brave the perpetually crowded brick-and-mortar shops can now browse the latest devices and accessories from the comfort of their home.

Cupertino has offered iPhone users a way to research, personalize, and buy products on the go for some time, and it is now extending that to the larger iPad screen.

"An app designed just for iPad that lets you shop the Apple Online Store like never before," the product description said. "Explore beautiful, high resolution image galleries, discover the latest products and accessories, and check out with a few taps."

Compatible with any iPad running iOS 7, the app lets users find their nearest Apple Retail Store, check product availability and schedule in-store pickups, make Genius Bar reservations, or sign up for workshops and events.

The app comes with a top menu with access to products (Mac, iPhone, iPad, iPod lineups) and accessories (cases, covers, styluses), as well as a search option, settings, and access to your cart.

Tap through the major product categories to an individual device, where you'll find product details as well as purchasing options like color, storage, and connectivity. Click on any one to find an explanation of how each size compares and why you may like "Space Gray" more than silver.

If you're not sure what you want, the new Now Trending function. The list of "hot" store items is curated in real-time based on what items are selling and which ones users are searching for.

Other bells and whistles include a full page of product images that rotate in unison, showing off a number of items' aspects at once; the app also comes with a dedicated section for items available only in the Apple Store.

According to TechCrunch, the navigation bar hides itself while browsing; swipe down from the top to reveal it at any time. Some early screens also hide product prices, the blog said, making for a cleaner look but also forcing buyers to dig deeper for more information. Once in purchasing mode, prices will appear on all pages.

The Apple Store for iPad application is available now for free download in the iTunes Store.