Apple will postpone the start of iPad 2 sales in Japan owing to the earthquake and the human tragedy that has followed in its wake.

"We are delaying the launch of the iPad 2 in Japan while the country and our teams focus on recovering from the recent disaster," Apple spokeswoman Natalie Kerris said in an e-mail. "Our hearts go out to the people of Japan, including our employees and their families, who have been impacted by this terrible tragedy."

The front door of Apple Japan&39's Web site expresses the company&39's deepest sympathies for the victims of the earthquake.

Sales of the iPad 2 were slated to begin there on March 25, along with 25 other countries around the globe.

In the U.S., the second-generation Apple tablet appears to be a certified hit, with analyst estimates of sales ranging from half a million to as much as 1 million.

The iPad 2 is also getting its share of positive reviews, with many citing increased performance and new features like dual cameras and iMovie software.