The iPad 2 is the second iteration of the iPad, a tablet computer designed, developed and marketed by Apple Inc. The tablet was introduced March 2, 2011 and will be released officially in the United States tomorrow on March 11, 2011. It serves primarily as a platform for audio-visual media including books, periodicals, movies, music, games, and web content. Its size and weight fall between those of contemporary smartphones and laptop computers. The iPad 2 has a new dual core Apple A5 processor. The iPad 2 includes VGA front-facing and 720p rear-facing cameras designed for FaceTime video messaging. The new iPad is compatible with a magnetic dual purpose screen protector/iPad stand.
Engadget Reviews:
To say Apple's iPad 2 is an easy tablet to review is somewhat of an understatement. The device, a follow up to last year's wildly successful (and currently market-defining) iPad, is nearly identical when it comes to software, and though improved, closely related on the hardware side as well. With a 9.7-inch, 1024 x 768 display, the general size and shape of the device has remained the same, and though inside there's a new dual core A5 CPU, more memory, and a pair of new cameras, most of the iPad 2's changes are cosmetic. Still, the previous tablet soared far above most of its competitors when it came to the quality of both the hardware (if not its raw specs) and its software selection -- something Apple still stands head and shoulders over its adversaries on. So this new model, a thinner, sleeker, faster variant of the original may not be breaking lots of new ground, but it's already at the front of the pack. But is the iPad 2 worth an upgrade for those that took the plunge on the first generation? More importantly, does the device have what it takes to bring new owners into the fold? Those questions -- and more -- are all about to be answered in the full Engadget review, so read on!
Official Specification:
- 1GHz dual-core A5 CPU
- RAM currently unknown, presumably 512MB
- 16GB, 32GB, 64GB storage options
- Front & Rear Cameras, front is VGA, rear is 720p
- 9.7″ LED display with 1024×768 screen resolution at 132ppi
- GPU said to be 9x faster
- Video output supports up to 1080p
- Runs iOS 4.3
- 10 hour battery life
- White & Black color options
- 3G models are AT&T and Verizon compatible
- 1.3 lbs
- Thinner build
iMovive demo: