(CNN) -- Google says the Nexus 7, its hotly anticipated new tablet computer, is shipping to customers who preordered it this week, amid reports of heavy demand.

In an e-mail to customers, the company said some versions of the 7-inch tablet are in the mail and others would be on the way to customers by Thursday evening.

"We've had incredible demand for the new tablet and are shipping them as quickly as possible," read the message. "If you placed your order by July 11, it will ship this...