Apple iPad 2

The first upgrade to Apple's mainstream tablet device, the Apple iPad 2 was announced on March 2nd 2011. The major Upgrade was  an improved dual A5 processor for double speed and 9x the graphical performance. The iPad maintains the original 10 hour battery life while being 33% slimmer and 13% lighter.

This Upgrade brings the  the iPad closer to the iPhone 4 spec, the device now includes dual front and rear facing cameras for video capture and use with Apple's FaceTime video chat service, as well as a gyroscope for full motion game controls. Yes I now what you are thinking All these are in the Samsung Galaxy tab so maybe Apple did this upgrade in order that the Ipad does not loose its market share from the other tablets.

The one major new feature of the iPad 2 is the new magnetic cover system. Magnets built into the device now allow for covers to attach and protect the device without needing to be manually fiddled with. The magnet system also allows for the device to know when it is being covered or opened - making it automatically sleep and wake up without any other user interaction. There is a drawback though - The cover only protects the screen and not the back of the device. The device will launch with plastic and leather covers available directly from Apple.

Things  I  Like

Much more powerful - new dual-core A5 processor provides double the processing power, 9x graphical performance of the original I pad and now its closer to the other new tablets

Dual cameras - FaceTime and other video conferencing, image and video capture- Much needed as this was where the Ipad was lacking.

33% slimmer than the original

Capable of HDMI output up to 1080p

3% lighter - 1.3lbs vs 1.5lbs

Maintains the original iPad's 10 hours of battery life despite being slimmer, lighter and more powerful Thank God they dint reduce that.

Compatible with 'intelligent' magnetic covers and cases - automatically goes to sleep and wakes up when covered / uncovered


Things I dint like

HDMI output requires an overpriced adapter So no direct HDMI socket.

No SD Card slot. Have to purchase an expensive add-on To do that.

No upgraded Retina display - display resolution is lacking next to the iPhone and is same as the previous Ipad

Just a speed bump - no big upgrades / really useful features when compared to the previous model.

SO do I think you should upgrade to the New Apple Ipad. well If you already have a iPad or any good tablet it makes no sense to do so, so don't do that. In the Other case if you are in the market for a tablet and you Don't mind paying a Premium (Cause there are devices that will do this and more for less price) then you can buy it although be ready for hidden costs and expensive attachments later. Personally I wont buy it and would pick up a Motorola zoom or a Blackberry Playbook or a Samsung Galaxy tab 2 cause they offer me much more for my money.

As usual if you have any questions or comments just email me or leave a comment.