On Friday, Apple released its latest gadget, “the iPad.” This may sound familiar seeing as Apple has released iPads in the past. However, instead of sticking a number on the end of the name to distinguish the latest model from those previous, Apple has kept it simple this time for its third generation iPad.
The biggest feature of is the Retina display. It is four times as sharp as the iPad 2 and leads the mobile device industry for sharpest resolution. The screen has 3.1 million pixels, one million more than are on a high definition television. What this means for consumers is that their pictures, videos, text, apps, and maps will look better than ever. Everything viewed on the new iPad comes off sharp and clear.
Another feature the device boasts is its ability to join the 4G wireless networks for data. Applications and web pages download noticeably faster, and you don’t have to wait for videos to load before they start playing. Also, the Verizon iPad offers tethering, which converts the cellular internet connection into a Wi-Fi hot spot. Usually with faster speeds comes lower battery life. Apple made it a point to keep the iPad battery life unchanged, at 9-10 hours on a charge. To do this, it used more Bluetooth because Bluetooth is a component that uses less power. It also updated its software and circuitry. Finally, it uses a heavier battery than the iPad 2. The new battery is only 1.8 ounces heavier, but those who are used to handling the iPad 2 may notice a slight difference.
Other new features of the new Ipad include its camera. It is a 5 megapixel camera which can capture 1080 p hi-def videos and has a stabilization feature to counter shaky hands or pictures taken while in motion.
Siri has also integrated her way into the new iPad. A small microphone appears on the on-screen keyboard and when you tap it, it lets you speak to type the same way the iPhone 4s does. Interestingly, speech to text is the only piece of Siri that is available on the new iPad. There is no ability to send messages, look up appointments or set alarms.
Every new product by Apple creates a commotion and more often than not, it seems as though consumers and critics have more positive things to say than not. For those who are in the market for a new tablet, the new iPad is definitely one to consider!