iPad 2 released in UK today

Apple's latest tablet device will hit UK stores at 5pm, while online shoppers report problems making orders

Apple's iPad 2 tablet sees its UK launch today, wtih prices for the device beginning at £399.

The tablet will be in stores at 5pm today, although Apple has been taking orders via its online store since 1am this morning.

However, according to Computing sister site V3.co.uk, the online ordering process is not going smoothly. Customers trying to pre-order the iPad 2 have been complaining that the Apple web site is suffering from errors that have delayed the process, V3 said.

Users on the iPadforums.net forum said that, when they tried to place their order for the iPad 2, they were unable to complete the order.

"Error after error. I sometimes get as far as confirming payment, but get blocked by another error message," said one user, majura.

Another, samch, said that they had tried ordering through a variety of different devices and had the same problem, concluding that the issue is with the web site itself.

The 16GB Wi-Fi-only version of the iPad 2 will be priced at £399, while the 32GB and 64GB versions will set you back £479 and £559 respectively.

Versions of the iPad 2 with 3G support will cost an additional £100.

The device is expected to be a huge hit with consumers, but whether it is secure and offers enough functionality for business users remains in question, with the device getting a mixed reaction from analysts when it was first unveiled.