Apple introduces iPad 2 with thinner, faster design
updated 01:35 pm EST, Wed March 2, 2011
Ships March 11th in US, 25th elsewhere
Apple today introduced the iPad 2, its second-generation tablet. The device uses a new dual-core processor called the A5, said to be twice as fast as the A4. Graphics processing is said to be nine times faster, and the device has both front- and rear-facing cameras. The device is a third thinner than the original iPad at 8.8mm versus 13.4mm, which Apple notes is also thinner than the iPhone 4. This contributes to a smaller weight at 1.3 pounds versus 1.5.
The iPad 2 further gains a gyroscope, and forward- and rear-facing cameras, which among other things can be used for iMovie, FaceTime calls, and Photo Booth. Black and white colors will be available, and 3G versions of the tablet will support AT&T and Verizon. Battery life is rated the same as the iPad 1 at 10 hours. Uniquely, a special $39 cable will allow HDMI out at resolutions up to 1080p while still charging.
The iPad 2 ships to the US on March 11th. Beginning on the 25th reach will expand to a host of other countries, including: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Ireland, Hungary, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK. Wi-Fi and 3G tablets will continue to be available in the same capacities and at the same prices as predecessors, ranging from $499 for 16GB Wi-Fi through to $829 for 64GB 3G.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Sep 2004
Shipping the 11th?
Hmmm... Seems like Apple won't let you order until the 11th.