Apple iPad 2, that released after an year the original iPad hit the market, is a device that builds on its predecessor. Being a faster and a lighter device, iPad 2 takes the tablet technology to the next level. No doubt it comes with several improved features, but with the tablet war heating up and the competitors trying their best to catch up with Apple, does the latest tablet from the company comes out to be victorious? Let’s find out.
We have not just presented a detailed analysis of all the features of the tablet but has also compared it with the original one wherever its necessary.
Design
In terms of design, iPad 2 doesn’t come with a major revamp. Though it is considerably thinner and lighter than its predecessor, in terms of looks it seems quite the same. Wisely, the company has decided not to go for any major overhaul as nothing really is wrong with the device as far as the physical design is concerned. The thickness of the device has reduced to 8.8 mm as opposed to 13.4 mm of its predecessor and the weight has gone down to 607g, that is a noticeable fall from 730g weight of the previous device.
Display
The next important factor that we need to consider is the display of the device. The display of the original iPad was excellent and has company has kept it same. The LED-backlit IPS TFT, capacitive touchscreen of the device provides good picture quality which is ideal for watching videos and enjoying videos. Though the screen doesn’t provide any further increase in the quality of the display, but with a crystal clear display, there is no reason to be disappointed.
Processor and Operating System
That is where the major improvements have been made. With an improved processor, the performance of the device has been considerably improved. To make things better, the company has introduced 512 MB RAM in place of 256 MB that the original device had. The 1 GHz dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 processor, not only has added power but has also made the device fast. It can easily handle multi-tasking and the users can comfortably use several apps at one go.
The tablet comes with iOS 4 operating system. For the uninitiated, it’s the same version of iOS that Apple iPhone 4 comes with. The iOS doesn’t really need any introduction and it makes the tablet functions well.
Internet
Owing to its large screen and an efficient Safari browser, web-browsing on the device proves to be an excellent experience. The pages load fast, even when the multiple windows are opened. The small text is easily readable on the 9.7 inch screen. This is one advantage that the tablet has over iPhone. Also, the multi touch zoom feature works extremely well and the images and the text can be enlarged wherever required. Web pages loaded with the flash content remains the only hitch that may cause some displeasure when you’re accessing the net.
Camera
No doubt, the iPad was an accomplished device, in fact it was the best tablet to hit the market. But one thing that it lacked was the camera. Understanding the need for the camera, Apple has introduced two cameras in the latest tablet. The back camera is .7 mega pixel that can be used to capture any pictures on an impromptu occasion (just make sure that you’re not looking silly while clicking pictures with a 9.7 inch device!). While the front camera (VGA) can be used fro video calling.
Media and Apps
That’s what it is built for. Just like its predecessor, iPad 2 is basically a media device that offers you plenty of options when it comes to entertainment. The users can enjoy videos and play their favourite games on the superb screen of the device. Add to it, the countless apps and the whole media experience becomes very enjoyable. Countless movies as well as TV programmes can be downloaded. The videos can easily be loaded into the iMovie App. Moreover, with rich graphics the whole gaming experience is simply fabulous.
Battery
To perform all these functions, the device definitely needs a good battery back-up, without which all the fabulous features that we have been talking about will not be of much use. Apple understands that and has taken care of that well. The tablet has the Li-Po 6930 mAh battery that promises 10 hrs of usage time and 720 hrs of standy by time. With moderate usage the battery can last for more than 10 hrs. No doubt, with a charged device, you’re not likely to run out of battery in the middle of a long flight.
Final Words
Apple, credited with introducing the first ‘real’ tablet in the market last year, has taken a big stride forward. Apple iPad 2 is arguably the best tablet in the market. With iPad 2, the company has strengthened its position in the market and the other competitors are still trying to find a way out to come out with a device that can challenge Apple device. With its simplicity, big and finger-friendly screen, a slimmer design, impressive media features as well as the countless applications, Apple has come out with yet another impressive gadget.