Apple product launches are typically met with hundreds (thousands?) of fans lining up at Apple stores to be one of the first ones to grab the new iDevice. Unfortunately for Apple, the same can’t be said for the iPad mini, which is going on sale this Friday (November 2).

The iPad mini debut in Sydney, Australia was met by roughly 50 Apple fans lined up to grab their hands on the tablet. Sure, a line of 50 is not “no one” (as the title of this article insinuates — bad, bad Ashraf) and is more than what other vendors typically get, but it sure isn’t close to the line for the iPhone or iPad that stretches for blocks at the same store.  Another similar case is how only one man is lined up for the iPad mini at the Apple store near Central Park in New York City, and while I’m sure the line would be longer if not for Hurricane Sandy, I highly doubt it would be much longer. The same holds true for most Apple stores around the world — either no lines at all, or lines that are miniscule in size compared to product launches for other iDevices.

Is this a sign of a failed product for Apple or are people simply holding out until the 3G/4G version hits store shelves? Only time will tell but it would make sense that people are holding out for the 3G/4G version. After all, one of the attractions of the smaller 7-inch form factor is portability — and you don’t always have WiFi access when on the road. It would also make sense if people don’t drink Apple’s kool-aid and not purchase an overpriced product.

[via NBC, Mashable]