Did you guys hear that the iPad 2 was announced today? Steve Jobs, in living legended status, even did the unveiling. Here’s everything that you need to know about what went down today at the Apple Keynote.
True to the rumors, Apple found quite a bit of things to update and tweak on the iPad:
They boosted up the processor considerably, switching from a 1GHz A4 processor to a 1GHz dual-core A5 processor. Along with the faster processor, Apple claims they’ve cranked up the graphics and are pumping out 9x the graphics performance, although there was no specification given on what they did to improve on the PowerVR SGX 535 graphics processor of the first unit.
The iPad lost some weight and is also 33% thinner. The new iPad 2 is only 8.8mm thick in comparison to the 13.44mm of it’s predecessor. It’s also slightly lighter than the last unit as well.
Multiple colors are now available for the iPad. It seemed like an odd rumor at the time, but those white iPad bezels actually proved to be the real deal and you can purchase your iPad in black or white.
Cool new accessories were also on display today. The iPad 2 now has the ability to put out 1080p video thanks to the new dock connector accessory. Apple also had a new cover that they showed off. The cover attaches to the iPad via magnets and acts a screen protector when not being used, but can also fold into a stand. The iPad is designed to sleep and wake up based on the positioning of the cover, which is a pretty simple but nice trick.
iOS 4.3 will be available on March 11th for free. The software update will be bringing a host of new features with it. Scott Forstall said that they’re increasing Safari performance, adding iTunes Home Sharing, making improvements to AirPlay, and adding a preference for the iPad switch.
Predictably, the iPad also got a front and rear camera. The rear camera can record HD video in 720p as well as take stills in 5x digital zoom. Along with the cameras, Apple is bringing Photobooth and FaceTime to the iPad. They’re also putting in the same 3-axis gyro that is used in the iPhone 4.
Along with everything else, Apple demo’d iMovie and Garageband that have been specifically designed for the iPad. Both apps look pretty groundbreaking but feature the sort of simplicity users have come to expect from Apple.
Buster Hein is a freelance writer who lives in Phoenix, Arizona. Twitter: @bst3r.
55 responses to “The iPad 2, Everything You Need to Know”
We need to know how much RAM it has….
How about a breakdown of the data plans available from Verizon vs AT&T?
RAM is the same as the original iPad, as are the prices.
There is no mention about ram anywhere, very odd…
Very much doubt that…
no information on the RAM or video processor was released.
You’re right, I skipped over RAM and thought he meant storage. Specs on Apple’s site do not show RAM.
Can’t find anything on those data plans! So frustrating since it seems to me that is a BIG deal, especially for Verizon’s offering….
NOT DO BUY AN iPAD 2.0
To see why:
http://besttechtoday.blogspot….
Engadget says it’s fast even while multitasking, so it doesn’t matter how much it is as long as it works
How much RAM, and what are the still camera specs, i.e. Megapixels?
It does to a developer.
(Great name by the way)
There was a story on Gizmodo stating that it may only have 256 MB of RAM. Man, that would be so disappointing if that’s the case.
the only reach feature I wanted was more RAM and lighter weight
No RAM increase and weight didn’t change
RAM is so necessary, we want to run more things together using the iPad
what kind of SIM required for IPad?
Seems unlikely with the new capabilities including the new iMovie app. Capabilities are similar to iPhone 4 which has 512. Would expect at least 512.
the ipad killer… introducing the ipad 2!
Here is the info on Verizon: http://www.verizonwireless.com…
And At&T: http://www.att.com/shop/wirele…
it is in fact both lighter, and features twice the ram of the original ipad, 512 vs. 256
Everything you need to know: It’s awesome, buy one or I’ll beat you.
Why would the data plans change when the iPad 2 wouldn’t technically consume more data than the first gen iPad. Facetime uses Wifi, so there’s no extra consumption there, or really…anywhere else.
That’s true, I never thought of that, (consumer talking here).
and thank you, it seems to get the most admiration from science sites opposed to music sites or something, it’s not my real name, my parents weren’t that cool.
Does bigger and better mean more expensive? Wondering if it is going to cost as much as the previous iPad, or will it have a higher price tag as a result of the improvements?
Apple did not change the price.. the cost the same.
* Back camera: Video recording, HD (720p) up to 30 frames per second with audio; still camera with 5x digital zoom
* Front camera: Video recording, VGA up to 30 frames per second with audio; VGA-quality still camera
* Tap to control exposure for video or stills
* Photo and video geotagging over Wi-Fi
Have first generation iPad. Can’t read it outside. Any information regarding a better or non glare screen?
I AM GETTING IT.
UGH FINALLY MADE UP MY MIND
I am a newby to the ipad scene and so far am not disappointed. I think I went overboard on the screen protectors. But really like the Zagg products so purchased for ipad2. However, I bought the new cover as well – hummm over kill! Now ordered a cover that will protect the back as well – kinda OCD with my electronic toys. I have noticed there is a yellow tint to my videos and pics. Can anyone shed light on this for me? If so, would you email me @ [email protected]