iPad fastest-selling gadget of all time claims analyst

Apple's iPad has been heralded as the fastest-selling gadget in history by Bernstein Research analyst Colin McGranahan, who estimates the Cupertino company has sold 8.5m of the iOS slates since its launch earlier in 2010.  According to Information Week, McGranahan described the iPad as "a runaway success of unprecedented proportions."

Apple announced back in June that 3m iPads had been sold in the first 80 days of availability, but since then has not confirmed sales numbers.  However, broader availability of the slate, including Target, Best Buy and, in the coming days Walmart, is all seen as helping propel its sales success.

[via TUAW]