The second generation Apple iPad was released across Canada and Australia towards the end of March 2011. Despite the hype and initial heavy demand, supplies seem to have caught up, with free stock of the iPad 2 available from all of the major retailers.
In our earlier reviews, we looked at the new design language and the technical innovations that debut in the revised tablet. Here we look at the new software.
Face Time
One of the great revolutions of recent years is FaceTime. First seen on the iPhone 4 and closely followed by the fourth generation iPod touch, FaceTime is a way of making video phone calls using the devices' integrated Wi-Fi connections and the internet. This process avoids cell networks and thus potentially high call charges, especially if the callers are in different countries. As a result, it is often touted as Apple's competitor to Skype. As expected from Apple software, it is very easy to use and a fun way to catch up with friends whether across the street or half-way around the globe.
Improved software
Apps are one of the biggest reasons to purchase an Apple mobile device. With their tight controls of App approvals, the end user is assured an enjoyable and fuss free iPad 2 experience, and with Apps specifically for Canada, Australia and the UK, owners not just within the confines of the United States can benefit from the huge selection of software on offer. With already over 70,000 Apps available on the Apple store (many of which are free), the iPad really has a march over its competitors. There is no doubt that the Android market is expending rapidly, but with the cameras and a new gyroscope, there are now more tools for the software developers to incorporate into the inevitably fun and innovative future releases.
As with the original iPhone models, the original iPad was criticised for its lack of multitasking support. Such an oversight was no good for a tablet device, with Apple promptly making amends in an update to iOS. Thanks to the increased RAM and processing speed, multitasking takes a step forward, with the improved hardware able to cope with more applications running at once.
Reading books on the iPad 2
If you're an avid reader, then the ability to read books is much enhanced. With access to Google Books, Nook (from Barnes and Noble) and Kindle as well as iBooks you have a huge choice as well as the ability to compare prices between vendors. Whilst not quite up to a dedicated ebook reader due to the lack of e-ink, the iPad 2 does a great job, although too much brightness from the backlight coupled with screen reflections are generally the major problems. I would say that hardcore readers might be better off with one of the dedicated machines.
Many of these software improvements are also available as a free iPhone 4 and iPod Touch (fourth generation only) update direct from Apple.
Thanks for reading part three of my iPad 2 review. In the next instalment we take a look at the new Smart Covers and deal with any problems I have encountered whilst using the iPad 2.
Get the latest generation tablet computer for nothing, get a free iPad 2 Canada. Just a few minutes of your time is all that is required. If you're not from Canada, then Australian residents can get a free iPad 2 Australia. Apple's new tablet is available in either black or white versions in either 16GB or 32GB capacities. Each combination can be had with just Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi and 3G connectivity.
If you need something more compact, get a free iPhone instead.
