As expected, Apple has begun to custom-engrave new iPads just in time for the holiday shopping season. Along with the free engraving service, iPads can be shipped to a gift recipient in a signature Apple gift box along with a personalized greeting card. iPads are now shipping within 24 hours from the online Apple Store, although engraving will delay shipment to 1-3 days.

The text of your choice will be laser engraved directly on the aluminum back of the iPad, above the Apple logo and near the top edge of the iPad. The message can be two lines of up to 35 characters each. Apple has offered the service on its products since 2002, when they initially charged $49 to engrave the 10 GB iPod.

Erictric cites a source inside Apple who claims the company will offer free engraving on the backs of iPads before the holiday season later this year. Apple launched engraving for the first time in 2002 with the 10 GB iPod. The service cost an additional $49 until Apple later decided to drop the charge entirely.

Apple now offers free engraving on all of its iPods. Your chosen words can be previewed on Apple's website, and engraved iPods cannot be returned. The service fits approximately 30 characters on each of two lines on the back of the iPod. If Apple does offer engraving on the iPad, there should be room for more text.