New Apple iPad 2 (white and black versions) with iOS 4.3 officially announced, prices start at $499
By Florin on 02 Mar 11Just as rumored and expected, Apple has officially announced a new iPad tablet – the iPad 2.
Although Apple says the iPad 2 has a completely new design, it doesn’t look too different from the previous model when seen from the front. However, the new iPad is 33% thinner than the old one – it measures only 8.8mm (so it’s even thinner than iPhone 4). It’s also lighter (1.3 lbs – less than 600 grams).
The tablet uses a new 1GHz Apple A5 dual-core processor, which allows it to provide up to 9x faster graphics. It has gyroscope, two cameras (5MP with HD video recording on the back, and VGA on the front for FaceTime video calling), and the same 9.7-inch IPS display with 1024 x 768 pixels.
There are two versions of the iPad 2: a black one, and a white one. Both versions will be available for purchase in less than two weeks from now: on March 11.
The prices of iPad 2 are on par with the prices of the first iPad:
- 16GB, Wi-Fi: $499
- 32GB, Wi-Fi: $599
- 64GB, Wi-Fi: $699
- 16GB, Wi-Fi and 3G: $629
- 32GB, Wi-Fi and 3G: $729
- 64GB, Wi-Fi and 3G: $829
The 3G versions will be compatible with AT&T’s and Verizon’s networks.
iPad 2 runs the new iOS 4.3, which will also be out in March 11 for iPhone (only the GSM version; no mention about Verizon’s iPhone) and iPod touch.
iPa2 will have some new accessories: an HDMI-out cable (which cost $39), and what Apple calls Smart Covers.
Made put of leather or polyurethane, the Smart Covers use magnetic technology to cover and protect the iPad’s display. They can be transformed into “the perfect movie-watching, game-playing, web-surfing stand.” They won’t be cheap, though: $39 (polyurethane), and $69 (leather).
You can find out more about the new iPad 2 here at Apple. What do you think so far, is it worth upgrading from the first model? We’ve heard the iPad 3 may also come this year, with really great features, so you may want to wait a bit before purchasing an iPad 2.
If you liked the post, you might find these interesting too:
- iPad 2 to be followed by iPad 3 later this year?
- iPad 2 mockups suggest the new tablet is thinner than the first model
- Apple iPad available in the US on April 3, pre-orders start this month
- iPhone OS-based Apple iPad (tablet) officially announced, prices start at $500 (video)
- New iPad reportedly in production now, should be out via both Verizon and AT&T
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