With the success of the iPad, Apple faced difficulties in making improvements to its successor, the iPad 2. But with a faster processor, increasingly realistic graphics, two new cameras installed and its smaller and sleeker design, Apple has produced a tablet that can easily integrate itself into the working environment.
The iPad 2’s processor, the 1GHz dual-core A5 CPU, is twice as fast as the iPad’s A4 version and its graphic performance is nine times faster than the original. It is a noticeable change that will allow easy and fast use of multiple apps at one time – exceedingly useful for the IT worker using a mobile device. Apps for the iPad and iPad 2 allow IT workers to manage servers and networks resources, access remote desktops and display IT dashboards. Additionally, you can view the status of your IT infrastructure, access office computers and mobile devices and troubleshoot and solve IT issues.
The A4 and the A5 processors have low-power chips and so the battery life is the same for both: You can get 10 hours of battery life when using WiFi, and this drops to 9 hours when using the 3G version. The iPad 2 also offers the same amount of memory as the iPad: 16GB, 32GB or 64GB.
The operating system on the iPad 2 is the new OS: 4.3, an update to the iPad’s operating system, the iOS: 4.2.1. However, if you are an owner of the original iPad this is something that you can update yourself through iTunes or the Apple website. The operating system supports the most common corporate VPN and WiFi protocols for secure access to company’s networks and integrates with Microsoft Entourage, Lotus Pomino and other standard messaging environments.
The WiFi capabilities of the iPad 2 are unchanged but the iPad 2 3G model now provides support for UMTS/HSDPA/HSUPA (850, 900, 1900, 100MHz) and GSM (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz). It also includes the same accelerometer and ambient light sensor, but has a new three-axis scope, providing a new level of sensitivity and control.
Visually, the first thing you will notice about the iPad 2 is that it is thinner and lighter than the original. The iPad 2 is 15% lighter than the iPad, weighing 601g (the WiFi only version) and 613g (WiFi and 3G). It is also about a third thinner than its older counterpart, measuring 4.6mm less in thickness. While the iPad 2 has become smaller, the screen has the same dimensions as the iPad: 9.7 inches, allowing for easy delivering and displaying of business presentations.
Another significant change in the iPad 2 is its two cameras that allow for still-time photos, video recording and web cam chat known as ‘FaceTime’. ‘FaceTime’ is an Apple-version of Skype (which you can also get on your iPad 2) that allows video conversations with individuals, useful for communicating and collaborating with colleagues and holding video conferences. The HD camera on the back of the iPad 2 records video in 720p at up to 30fbs and also functions as a still camera. The camera on the front of the device captures VGA-quality video as well as still shots.
A concern about the iPad was how easily it could be scratched, but the iPad 2’s Smart Cover has solved this issue. The cover protects the body of the iPad 2, keeping it straight and well aligned as well as automatically putting the device to sleep when closed. When the Smart Cover is removed it can be used as a mini stand for the tablet.
Overall, the iPad 2 outperforms its younger counterpart and with its specifications, new features, slenderness and portability, allowing for an easy integration into the corporate environment.
Apple iPad vs Apple iPad 2: Specifications
| Feature | iPad | iPad 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Display technology | Capacitive IPS | Capacitive IPS |
| Display resolution | 1024 x 768 pixels | 1024 x 768 pixels |
| Display size | 9.7in | 9.7in |
| Processor | Apple A4 (1GHz) | Apple A5 (1GHz dual-core) |
| RAM | 256MB | 512MB (unconfirmed) |
| Internal memory | 16GB/32GB/64GB | 16GB/32GB/64GB |
| Rear camera | None | Video recording, HD (720p) up to 30 frames per second with audio; still camera with 5x digital zoom |
| Front camera | None | Video recording, VGA up to 30 frames per second with audio; VGA-quality still camera |
| 3G networks (3G + Wi-Fi models) | HSDPA 850/1900/2100MHz | HSDPA 850/900/1900/2100MHz |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n |
| Bluetooth | 2.1 with A2DP | 2.1 with A2DP |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 10 hours |
| Accelerometer | 3-axis | 3-axis |
| Gyroscope | None | 3-axis |
| GPS | Yes | Yes |
| Expandable memory | No | No |
| Width | 13.4mm | 8.8mm |
| Weight | 680g (Wi-Fi), 730g (Wi-Fi + 3G) | 601g (Wi-Fi), 613g (Wi-Fi + 3G) |
| HDMI-out | Yes, 720p (with optional Digital AV Adapter) | Yes, 1080p (with optional Digital AV Adapter) |
| Adobe Flash support | No | No |