Apple announced the new iPad today, showing off the tablet device to the press and the internet world. The new iPad features a “retina display,” 4G LTE internet and features the addition of Apple’s new “virtual assistant” Siri. It will be available on March 16th; pre-orders start today.
Prices: $499, $599, and $699 for 16, 32, and 64GB. $629, $729, and $829 with 4G.
Starting today, the iPad 2 will be available in only 16GB form. The WiFi version will cost $399 and the WiFi/3G version is $529. A $100 drop from its previous MSRP.
- “Retina display” Much higher definition that previous display. 264 pixels per inch, better than 1080p, according to Apple for a much better color saturation
- A5X processor = quad-core graphics = amazing games.
- iSight Camera: 5-megapixel backside illuminated sensor on the back, 5-element lens, IR filter, and ISP built into the A5X chip. 1080p Video capable with built-in stabilization.
- Voice Dictation: This new iPad feature allows you to instantly record your voice, and yes, that means Siri.
- 4G LTE capable: AT&T, Verizon, Rogers, Bell, and Telus will be LTE parnters. LTE speeds up to 73Mbps.
- World 3G: According to Cook, you can “roam anywhere around the world.”
Apple also announced it’s iOS update, 5.1, available Today!
What’s new in iOS 5.1?
Facebook Integration –
A new Facebook username field is in the Contacts application. You can upload pictures directly to Facebook from the Camera Roll, Finally !!!
Images can now be removed from the Photo Stream -
This was one of the biggest requests for Photo Stream just after it came out. Likely because a bunch of tech bloggers started taking screenshots of their new device, and then couldn’t get them out of their iPhoto libraries.
Camera button permanence. -
The camera button that we all love to see on the home screen, has become a permanent fixture. Now you can see it without double clicking. Also, there is a nifty swipe up to launch the camera app.
Japanese Siri. –
This is certainly a step in the right direction for Apple. Announcing more languages for Siri is going to make a big difference in the success of Apple internationally. The world needs to feel like Apple has their interests at heart, and isn’t just a US company. iOS 5.1 with Japanese Siri will certainly help sales of the iPhone 4S.
What do you think of the new iPad? Will you be getting one? Is it worth the upgrade ?
Image Sources: Apple, Pwnage Tool
