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Computer Support For Individuals And Small Business |
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3/14/11 |
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iPad 2 Basics |
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The iPad 2 was introduced on March 2, 2011 by none other than Steven Jobs himself. It actually became available in stores in the U.S. on March 11. It includes a number of enhancements over the original iPad .
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With a thickness of .34 inch (8.8mm) and weighing in at 1.33 lb.(601g - Wi-Fi only version) it is both thinner and lighter than the original. It is available in both black and white. The screen is basically the same in both size and resolution.
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It boasts an A5 dual-core processor, vs. the A4 which was in the original iPad, a step up in power. Apple has indicated the A5 is twice as fast and that the graphics are nine times as fast. It also has a built in gyroscope for apps than can take advantage of positioning.
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Both a front and rear camera have been added. The rear camera is capable of 720p HD video. The front camera is suitable for video chat or conferencing.
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The product includes the iOS 4.3 operating system (which is also available for download for the original iPad and probably worth it).
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With all this you might expect a shorter battery life but Apple has indicated it is the same as the original iPad, 10 hours.
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All models come with Wi-Fi capability. As with the original iPad there are three options for hard drive space, 16 GB, 32 GB, and 64 GB. Pricing for the Wi-Fi only version is the same as the original version, $499, $599, and $699 based on hard drive space.
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For an additional $130, network connectivity to either the AT&T or Verizon cell network is available. One must choose the carrier option at the time of purchase. After two weeks it is irreversible (changing carriers during the initial two weeks requires exchanging the iPad for one configured for the other carrier). One of the big disappointments is the only option available is 3G, in spite of the fact that both AT&T and Verizon have 4G availability in some areas and are rapidly deploying it nationwide (and it is the wave of the future).
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Two new accessories are also worthy of mention. First, a Smart Cover is available in polyurethane ($39) or leather ($69). It attaches to the iPad with magnets and puts the device to sleep when closed. The iPad wakes up when the Smart Cover is opened. It can be folded to provide a support for either typing (slightly elevating the upper edge of the iPad) or viewing (the iPad sits almost vertically.).
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The second accessory is an HDMI cable. It is available to attach the iPad to an HDMI compliant device such as a television. The cost is $39.
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Overall, the iPad 2 provides some nice upgrades over the original iPad, certainly more bang for the buck. It continues to easily outstrip the competition which is trying desperately to catch up.
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We will provide additional information on the iPad 2 as well as our recommendations in future articles.
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