The iPad 2 From Apple - Design and Usability Improvements

The second generation iPad 2 from Apple aims to further increase standards in the lucrative tablet computer market. Improvements are concentrated on areas such as aesthetics, technology and usability. In this article we take closer look at the new design along with the usability improvements that have been introduced.

iPad 2 - Improved Design

Although asthetically it is unmistakably an iPad, the second generation device sports an entirely new design which is an impressive 33 percent thinner than the original at just 0.34" (or 8.8mm) and 15 percent lighter at just 1.33 pounds (or 601g). A new metal alloy casing material is also being used, with the tablet now resembling the all-in-one unibody construction as used in the MacBook Pro and iMac computers. This lends the device a more upmarket and durable feel than either the first generation version or its main competitors.

Other aesthetic improvements include the addition of a front-facing camera and the introduction of a new concept called Smart Covers, which provide protection for the 9.7" touch screen. Smart Covers are based around a self-aligning magnetic hinge that attaches to the iPad 2 surround and can automatically awake the tablet when removed and put it to sleep when attached. The outer material of the Smart Cover is available in either coloured polyurethane or leather, whilst a microfiber lining protects the screen from scratches and marks when attached. The Smart Cover can also fold into a stand to aid typing or watching movies. Although this accessory is not included with the standard package, look out for free Smart Covers that may be included within iPad 2 package deals that are often offered by many retailers.

iPad 2 Color Options

A white iPad 2 is now available in addition to the standard black edition. Whether Apple have learned from the manufacturing issues experienced in producing the white iPhone models remains to be seen, but at least the white version will be freely available from launch unlike the iPhone 4 which saw numerous delays.

iPad 2 Usability Improvements

With iPad 2 comes iOS 4.3, which is also available as a free iPad 1 and iPhone upgrade. This new version of Apple's mobile operating system brings with it faster internet browsing thanks to the integrated Safari browser, iTunes Home Sharing which lets you stream and transfer music and videos between up to five computers on your network and Personal Hotspot which allows an iPad 2 to share an iPhone 4's cell connection over the Wi-Fi connection.

Photo Booth is also now included, letting users apply visual effects to photos such as Twirl, Squeeze and Kaleidoscope to their photo's. This works on photo's taken with either the integrated camera or imported from an external device.

Summary

Despite the likes of Samsung and Motorola releasing competing tablet products, this second generation device introduces a more compact and higher quality product, packed with even more features and usability enhancements.

The iPad 2 includes Wi-Fi connectivity and an option of contract free 3G reception using an appropriate micro SIM card. Each basic version is offered in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB capacities, whilst a 3G iPad 2 with inclusive mobile data plan is available from various network providers.

The author has many years experience both reviewing and writing about Apple's technology products. Get your free Apple iPad 2 today and stay one step ahead of the competition with the best tablet PC on the market. If you need something smaller, get a free white iPhone which benefits from the same Apple iOS operating system.

Apple iPad 2 Review Part 3 - Software Improvements

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.