Apple has announced that the launch price of its heralded iPad2 device will undercut that of its own predecessor when it debuts in British stores from 5pm on Friday.

The firm will lop £30 off the price of their 16GB model, yours for £399, and £40 off the top end 32GB, available for a hefty £659.

As well as being lighter on the pocket the gadget is also physically slimmer and lighter than its predecessor, despite sporting a faster processor.

Friday’s global launch across 25 separate territories follows a successful launch in the States on March 11.