Your complete guide to the second coming of Apple's game-changing portable computing phenomenon
hat a year it's been for Apple. Rewind to January 2010, and naysayers were lining up to pour scorn on the just-unveiled iPad. "What's it for?" They asked. "It's just a giant iPhone," they insisted. Well, how very wrong they were. From that standing start, Apple's bold new creation has gone on to become a bona fide phenomenon, single-handedly redefining the tablet concept and carving out a huge market where many had argued one didn't really exist. It's the very definition of a must-have device, transforming the way we work, communicate and, of course, entertain ourselves.
And now, after months of speculation, its second iteration is finally upon us. Slimmer, sleeker and more powerful, the iPad 2 is all set to take the tablet to the next level. Over the next ten pages, we'll be talking you through the myriad refinements, improvements and smart new additions Apple has made to its game-changing gizmo. From its sleek new look and lightning fast CPU, to its twin cameras and exciting new apps, this is the only guide to the iPad 2 you'll ever need to read
Redesigning a phenomenon
How the iPad conquered the world, and why Apple has gone back to the drawing board
How the iPad conquered the world, and why Apple has gone back to the drawing board
A little over a year ago, the embryonic tablet market was limping.
Early PC-based devices had failed to strike a chord with consumers.
Critics complained they were pricey, unreliable and impractical.
Then, in January last year, Apple boss Steve Jobs took the wraps off the iPad. Those same pundits were sceptical, but the device immediately captured the public's imagination. Unlike much of the competition, it was very affordable, with prices starting from £329. Not only that but its slick, intuitive operating system was both immediately familiar to millions of Apple users and easily accessible to newcomers. With the App Store, it offered tens of thousands of applications for download.
The iPad was a phenomenon from day one and has since sold over 15 million units, rewarding Apple with a 90 percent share of the entire tablet market. Developers have released 65,000 dedicated iPad apps - that's an average of around 180 new programs a day.
On top of all that, Apple's all-conquering gizmo has been adopted in schools as a learning aid, and by doctors, businessmen and creatives.
"It's amazing to think that just a year ago very few people had actually held an iPad in their hands," says Apple marketing chief Michael Tchao. "It truly has become a blockbuster post-PC device."
So, all eyes on its successor, the iPad 2. While its success is virtually assured, Apple's designers have fought complacency to introduce a
number of important, intuitive new features that enhance the experience.
"With iPad 2 we've made advances in form and function that are so significant and far-reaching," insists Jony Ive, Apple's senior design VP.
So what exactly are these changes? The iPad 2 is now slimmer, smaller and sleeker. It's 33 per cent thinner and 15 per cent lighter than its predecessor. According to Ive, "It's not only more comfortable to hold ... It's also rigid, sturdy and even more precise."
However, the iPad 2 is not only smaller, but also considerably more powerful. Its new dual core A5 processor is twice as fast as Apple's original tablet, offering up to nine times the graphics performance. This etxra oomph offers new experiences that were impossible on the first iPad. FaceTime brings videochat, GarageBand is a brilliant, fully-featured music creation studio, and Photo Booth is a fun, frothy picture editing app.
Pictures, you say? The iPad2 boasts two cameras, one facing back at you and the other facing forward. Both are capable of shooting video (the latter in HD) that you can edit in a new iOS version of Mac staple i Movie.
You can also now plug your iPad into an HD TV for real-time mirroring -perfect if you're presenting to the board, or want to share images or watch video content on the big screen. There's a gyroscope for further added functionality, too. The iPad now comes in white as well as black, while the new Smart Cover, detailed on page 10, is offered in ten different colours.
It's not quite a total revolution, but it's an impressive evolution that takes a game-changing gadget and makes it even more indispensable. As Apple CEO Steve Jobs put it while unveiling the new device in San Francisco last month, "2011 is clearly going to be the year of the iPad 2."
"2011 is clearly going to be the year of the iPad2"
Volume control
This pad on the side oFyour iPad controls the volume. The small switch above it lets you manually switch the screen orientation, or acts as an automatic mute switch, depending on system settings.
This pad on the side oFyour iPad controls the volume. The small switch above it lets you manually switch the screen orientation, or acts as an automatic mute switch, depending on system settings.
Picture perfect
The iPad 2 adds two cameras, both capable of shooting VGA-quality video. On top oF that, the back-Facing lens can capture HD Footage, as well.
The iPad 2 adds two cameras, both capable of shooting VGA-quality video. On top oF that, the back-Facing lens can capture HD Footage, as well.
What a view
The 9.7-inch backlit, widescreen, 1,024x768 pixel, multi-touch, Fingerprint-prooF screen is another classic Apple display.
The 9.7-inch backlit, widescreen, 1,024x768 pixel, multi-touch, Fingerprint-prooF screen is another classic Apple display.
Power down
Hold down this button to power down your device, or switch it back on. However, the machine automatically goes into power-saving sleep mode when not being used. Just press the home button to bring it back to liFe.
Hold down this button to power down your device, or switch it back on. However, the machine automatically goes into power-saving sleep mode when not being used. Just press the home button to bring it back to liFe.
Get to know your way around the iPad 2
What the iPad 2 looks like and what it does
What the iPad 2 looks like and what it does
The smartest cover
Everything you need to know about Apple's ingenious new Smart Cover
One other new Apple innovation launches alongside the iPad 2 - the Smart Cover. On the face of it, a case might not seem like an awful lot to get excited about. But look a little closer, and you'll see it's a quietly innovative piece of design that represents a real leap on from the original device's first party slip case.
Available in ten differ colours (five in polyurethane for €35 each, and five in aniline-dyed leather for £59 each), the Smart Cover magnetically attaches to the side of the device. It can be folded back on itself to offer a stand for typing or viewing content, and automatically activates sleep mode when closed, or wakes the iPad up when opened. What's more, its microfibre internal lining helps buff the screen clean when it's shut.
"We wanted to figure out a way to protect the display without compromising the iPad's size and weight," explains Apple's design VP Jony Ive. "So, rather than developing a separate case, we created a cover at the same time that we were actually designing the iPad. The two are made to work together."
Everything you need to know about Apple's ingenious new Smart Cover
One other new Apple innovation launches alongside the iPad 2 - the Smart Cover. On the face of it, a case might not seem like an awful lot to get excited about. But look a little closer, and you'll see it's a quietly innovative piece of design that represents a real leap on from the original device's first party slip case.
Available in ten differ colours (five in polyurethane for €35 each, and five in aniline-dyed leather for £59 each), the Smart Cover magnetically attaches to the side of the device. It can be folded back on itself to offer a stand for typing or viewing content, and automatically activates sleep mode when closed, or wakes the iPad up when opened. What's more, its microfibre internal lining helps buff the screen clean when it's shut.
"We wanted to figure out a way to protect the display without compromising the iPad's size and weight," explains Apple's design VP Jony Ive. "So, rather than developing a separate case, we created a cover at the same time that we were actually designing the iPad. The two are made to work together."
Clean and tidy When closed, the perfectly aligned cover helps keep the iPad's screen clean, thanks to its space-age microfibre lining
Easy typing position Roll it up and tuck it behind the iPad to create a horizontal stand for easy typing
Hardback stand You can snap the cover back on its magnetic hinge like a hardback book while using your iPad
Vertical viewing ...or a vertical stand perfect for watching video content or viewing picture slideshows
Switched on
Don't ask us how the magicians at Apple HQ came up with this one. When you open the cover, your iPad will immediately awaken from sleep mode without the need for tapping the home button.Then, when you close it again, your iPad will automatically hibernate again.
Don't ask us how the magicians at Apple HQ came up with this one. When you open the cover, your iPad will immediately awaken from sleep mode without the need for tapping the home button.Then, when you close it again, your iPad will automatically hibernate again.
Ready-to-go device The new Smart Cover does more than just protect yourscreen - it keeps your iPad ready-to-go
Looking good
Whereas the official Apple slipcase for the original iPad only came in a functional but rather spartan black, the design team has really gone to town on the iPad 2's cover. It's available in ten different colours. Five of these are available in sturdy polyurethane (costing £35), while another five come in classy aniline-dyed Italian leather (costing £59)
Magnetic power The Smart Cover sits perfectly aligned on your iPad, thanks to a sturdy set of magnets
Whereas the official Apple slipcase for the original iPad only came in a functional but rather spartan black, the design team has really gone to town on the iPad 2's cover. It's available in ten different colours. Five of these are available in sturdy polyurethane (costing £35), while another five come in classy aniline-dyed Italian leather (costing £59)
Magnetic power The Smart Cover sits perfectly aligned on your iPad, thanks to a sturdy set of magnets
Splash of colour Take your pick from ten vibrant colours and two different cover finishes.
Accessories
Peripheral vision
Your guide to the official accessories that will help you get the most from your iPad 2
Peripheral vision
Your guide to the official accessories that will help you get the most from your iPad 2
Apple keyboard
If you use your iPad as your primary portable computing device, you might want to invest in an Apple Keyboard Dock (€56). Although we prefer to use a regular Apple Bluetooth Keyboard, as shown (€57). It's smaller and lighter than the Keyboard Dock and transmits information wirelessly, you'll need a case to stand up the iPad though.
Keyboard options Apple's lightweight wireless bluetooth keyboard is compact enough to slip into your briefcase.
If you use your iPad as your primary portable computing device, you might want to invest in an Apple Keyboard Dock (€56). Although we prefer to use a regular Apple Bluetooth Keyboard, as shown (€57). It's smaller and lighter than the Keyboard Dock and transmits information wirelessly, you'll need a case to stand up the iPad though.
Keyboard options Apple's lightweight wireless bluetooth keyboard is compact enough to slip into your briefcase.
iPad 2 Dock
Though the Smart Cover offers a perfectly sturdy stand for your iPad, Apple's iPad 2 Dock (€26) adds a few more features. As well as a robust rest, it offers easy access to a port for charging or syncing. There's also an audio line-out port for connecting to speakers and it's compatible with the Camera Connection Kit, too.
Though the Smart Cover offers a perfectly sturdy stand for your iPad, Apple's iPad 2 Dock (€26) adds a few more features. As well as a robust rest, it offers easy access to a port for charging or syncing. There's also an audio line-out port for connecting to speakers and it's compatible with the Camera Connection Kit, too.
iPad Camera Connection Ki"
Rather than forcing you to download digital photos from your camera onto a computer before transferring them across to your iPad, the Camera Connection Kit (€26) cuts out the middleman and lets you import pictures straight from your camera. An additional dongle also lets you download images straight from an SD card.
Rather than forcing you to download digital photos from your camera onto a computer before transferring them across to your iPad, the Camera Connection Kit (€26) cuts out the middleman and lets you import pictures straight from your camera. An additional dongle also lets you download images straight from an SD card.
Apple in-ear headphones with remote and mic
Does what it says on the tin. These in-ear headphones (€66) offer impressive sound isolation, two high performance drivers and a mid-cable remote that lets you control your iTunes library or video playback at the touch of a button. There's also a built-in mic on the remote for recording voice memos.
In-ear Perfect for silent running, these high-end in-ear headphones offer excellent clarity of sound.
Does what it says on the tin. These in-ear headphones (€66) offer impressive sound isolation, two high performance drivers and a mid-cable remote that lets you control your iTunes library or video playback at the touch of a button. There's also a built-in mic on the remote for recording voice memos.
In-ear Perfect for silent running, these high-end in-ear headphones offer excellent clarity of sound.
Apple Digital AV Adaptor
The iPad 2 now allows you to mirror whatever is happening on-screen on your HD TV. To take advantage of the feature you'll need to pick up a Digital AV Adaptor. As well as letting you stream movies, music and other content to your TV, it also charges your iPad in the process.
Digital AV Adaptor View video, enjoy music or play games in HD.
The iPad 2 now allows you to mirror whatever is happening on-screen on your HD TV. To take advantage of the feature you'll need to pick up a Digital AV Adaptor. As well as letting you stream movies, music and other content to your TV, it also charges your iPad in the process.
Digital AV Adaptor View video, enjoy music or play games in HD.
Apps
The iPad 2 App Guide
The best iPad 2-only apps to put your gadget through its paces
FaceTime
Thanks to the iPad 2' s new built-in camera, the iPhone 4's FaceTime application has been brought over to Apple's tablet. Vou can nowvideochat over wi-fn with any other iPad 2, iPhone 4, iPod touch or Mac. Just tap on their name in your contacts list and, provided they're online, an invitation will pop up on their screen.
Thanks to the iPad 2' s new built-in camera, the iPhone 4's FaceTime application has been brought over to Apple's tablet. Vou can nowvideochat over wi-fn with any other iPad 2, iPhone 4, iPod touch or Mac. Just tap on their name in your contacts list and, provided they're online, an invitation will pop up on their screen.
FaceTime The iPad 2's new camera brings wi-fi video chat to the device for the first time
GarageBand
Fancy yourself asa budding musician? Welcome to paradise. GarageBand (£2.99) is an addictive, feature-packed portable take on Apple's acclaimed Mac music-making software. It lets you record your own mini symphonies, either using your own instruments or the digital equivalents provided in-app.
Fancy yourself asa budding musician? Welcome to paradise. GarageBand (£2.99) is an addictive, feature-packed portable take on Apple's acclaimed Mac music-making software. It lets you record your own mini symphonies, either using your own instruments or the digital equivalents provided in-app.
GarageBand It will take some time to get your head around it properly, but persevere and GarageBand offers a creative wonderland.
iMovie
Now you can shoot video with your iPad, courtesy of the exterior HD camera, it makes sense that Apple adds its film editing package to the App Store. Once you've shot your footage, you'll be able to edit it as a mini home movie masterpiece, then iMovie Like GarageBand, iMovie is a comprehensive share it with friends. distillation of its beefy desktop progenitor.
Photo Booth
It's not exactly Photoshop, but what Photo Booth lacks in Features it makes up for in infectious fun. This free app simply lets you add weird and wonderful visual effects to your iPad snaps. Once you've captured a ridiculous self-portrait, you can then immediately share itwith friends via email or Bluetooth.
Photo Booth Photo Booth lets you add one of nine wacky special effects to your photos.It's not exactly Photoshop, but what Photo Booth lacks in Features it makes up for in infectious fun. This free app simply lets you add weird and wonderful visual effects to your iPad snaps. Once you've captured a ridiculous self-portrait, you can then immediately share itwith friends via email or Bluetooth.
Infinity Blade
The iPad 2 offers new opportunities for game developers to push the envelope and deliver some truly gobsmacking experiences. Sword fighting epic Infinity Blade is one of the first games to step up to the plate, with a recent update adding optimized, crystal clear visuals exclusive to iPad 2 owners.
Infinity Blade iPad gaming gets a boost thanks to the powerful new A5 processor.The iPad 2 offers new opportunities for game developers to push the envelope and deliver some truly gobsmacking experiences. Sword fighting epic Infinity Blade is one of the first games to step up to the plate, with a recent update adding optimized, crystal clear visuals exclusive to iPad 2 owners.
Under the hood - inside the iPad 2
The power behind the new evolution that boasts HD recording
The power behind the new evolution that boasts HD recording
Twin cameras
The iPad 2 boasts two cameras, one on the back and one on the front. The front-facing lens can shoot VGA footage at up to 30 frames per second and take VGA quality stills. The rear facing camera captures 720p HD footage and boasts a 5x digital zoom. Apple hasn't released megapixel specs but don't expect anything too crisp - the cameras are functional rather than high end.
Capture the moment The iPad's two cameras might not offer top-of-the-line specs but add important functionality to the device
The iPad 2 boasts two cameras, one on the back and one on the front. The front-facing lens can shoot VGA footage at up to 30 frames per second and take VGA quality stills. The rear facing camera captures 720p HD footage and boasts a 5x digital zoom. Apple hasn't released megapixel specs but don't expect anything too crisp - the cameras are functional rather than high end.
Capture the moment The iPad's two cameras might not offer top-of-the-line specs but add important functionality to the device
The Dual A5 Processor
While the original iPad was no slouch, its successor has been given a real dose of rocket fuel courtesy of Apple's new 1 GHz dual A5 processor. That essentially means where once the iPad was powered by a single core chip, it now has two. Apps load faster, multi-tasking is that little bit smoother and browsing the web is lightning quick.
While the original iPad was no slouch, its successor has been given a real dose of rocket fuel courtesy of Apple's new 1 GHz dual A5 processor. That essentially means where once the iPad was powered by a single core chip, it now has two. Apps load faster, multi-tasking is that little bit smoother and browsing the web is lightning quick.
Faster, sharper apps , Your apps will look sharper and work faster thanks to the new dual A5 processor
Memory matters
Whereas the original iPad offered 256MB of system memory, Apple's new device has doubled that to 512MB. What this means for you? You can now run more apps at the same time and switch between them quicker. Not only that, but high-spec apps like GarageBand or Infinity Blade now run more smoothly too.
Whereas the original iPad offered 256MB of system memory, Apple's new device has doubled that to 512MB. What this means for you? You can now run more apps at the same time and switch between them quicker. Not only that, but high-spec apps like GarageBand or Infinity Blade now run more smoothly too.
Memory doubled Apple has doubled the amount of system memory in the iPad 2 to a sturdy 512MB, making it great for gaming and demanding apps like GarageBand
The iPad 2 Specifications
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