Pretty much exactly as predicted by various rumor sites, Apple today announced the 3rd generation of their ubiquitous iPad tablet.
Here’s a quick synopsis.
The New iPad
Apple is calling the new iteration simply “the new iPad” with no numeric suffix. The major changes include:
- Retina display (2048 x 1536 resolution.) Reason enough alone to get one.
- A5X processor with quad-core graphics processor.
- 5 megapixel camera with 1080p video recording.
- Optional 4G LTE wireless.
- Text input via dictation.
Pricing is the same as for the previous iPad 2 configurations. Pre-order now for delivery on Match 16th.
A Cheaper iPad 2
The iPad 2 will still be available priced $100 less than previously.
Apple TV take 3
Apple is also updating the Apple TV to add 1080p support for the same $99 price. The iTunes Store will also be providing full 1080p movies and TV programming.
Other goodies such as improved iCloud integration and Netflix support is also available to existing Apple TVs via a software update.
iOS 5.1
Available today for supported iPads, iPhones and iPod touches.
NOTE: My iPad 1 updated to 5.1 just fine via USB cable and iTunes. However iTunes crashed during the update on my iPhone 3GS leaving the iPhone in recovery mode, useless as an actual phone. Tried it again and iTunes crashed AGAIN. I checked Software Updates and sure enough, there is an iTunes update available which I am downloading now and which will hopefully allow me to finish the update.
So, if you are updating your iOS devices via iTunes rather than directly on the device itself I’d definitely suggest first checking that your Mac is up to date with all current software updates.
iLife Complete
Apple is finally finishing up the translation of it’s iLife app suite to the iOS by adding iPhoto to the App Store. It is even somehow compatible with both the iPad and iPhone/iPod touch!
With Lots More to Come
Apple promises this is just the start of the great new products we can expect this year.
Some folks will invariably claim that this is a meager update over the iPad 2. They’re wrong. The Retina display alone makes this a big deal. I’ve already got mine on pre-order. Who else is early adopting?