Apple finally launched OS X Lion today, and although the release will be exclusive to the Mac App Store initially, Apple has confirmed it will be available on a USB thumb drive for $69 in August.

Of course, that $69 price tag is twice that of Lion’s Mac App Store price, which is just $29.99. However, it will enable those without broadband access in their homes or strict data caps from their ISPs to install Apple’s latest operating system, which weighs in at a pretty hefty 3.49 GB:

Users who do not have broadband access at home, work or school can download Lion at Apple retail stores and later this August, Lion will be made available on a USB thumb drive through the Apple Store® (www.apple.com) for $69 (US).

It’s currently unclear whether those eligible for a free upgrade to Lion can get the USB drive at a special rate.

[via AppleInsider]