Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Apple iPad 2: Faster, leaner, more versatile

While the new competition quickly Tablets in the booming market is depressing, Apple is already the revised version of this model before iPad. Whether by iPad 2 the killer Tablet is coming and it surpasses its predecessor, please read here.

Speed​​: Dual-core power

IPad 2 has a gigahertz processor, clocked with a "A5 SOC" (developed by Apple) with two computing cores. Thus, the operating speed has been improved markedly. In the test apps started faster and applications such as video editing with the new iMovie and complex 3D racing games run smoothly agreeable. Apple speaks for graphic applications, even from one to nine times higher performance than the first iPad.

Cameras for high-definition video and Face Time

There are new cameras: the front for video calling with VGA resolution (640x480 pixels), in the back of high definition video (1280x720 pixels). With the program iMovie to edit the videos on site. With an effective resolution of 0.6 megapixels delivers iPad two quite blurred and grainy images. Practical: tip of your finger focus on the subject. Geotagging for photos and videos is possible with the 3G version with a GPS receiver, UMTS and WLAN network. The cheapest version determines the place only via WiFi with the digital compass. Video telephony via WLAN only works with other iPads 2, 4 or iPhones with Macs FaceTime.

The screen and cabinet

The 9.7 inches (25 centimeters) wide 4:3 screen has a resolution of 1024x768 pixels at 132 ppi (pixels per inch). The backlit with LEDs screen is sharp, bright and brilliant. As with the iPad 1, the shiny surface leads to strong reflections in sunlight. The iPad weighs 2 in the wireless version of 601 grams and slims it from about 80 grams. This is quite noticeable. The streamlined housing (8.8 mm) with aluminum back is comfortable to hold. The new model is available with a white frame. Surprise in the test lab: For the scratch resistance received iPad two "very low" - the predecessor completed the discipline yet with a smooth one!

Equipment and Accessories

The technical equipment includes a three-axis motion sensor (gyroscope), accelerometers and ambient light sensor. The first images sent iPad only with certain programs on the analog VGA connector. Now, although there is an HDMI output, which is available only via an adapter (39$). The so-called Smart Cover that connects magnetically to the Tablet PC, and opening and closing also provides for on and off, replaces the stiff shell. These screen covers are not in, but are available as accessories.

Battery life

The battery lasted through the normal operation almost 16 hours and is almost on par with its predecessor. Even with heavy use of managed iPad 2 just seven hours. The first generation was through here a little longer. Overall, the endurance is good again.

Intuitive controls, IOS 3.4

The simple delay-free operation remains the best discipline. The multi-touch control works so smoothly and quickly as the iPhone. About iTunes fill the Tablet PC with music, videos, games and apps. The perfect combination of software, shop and works only with Apple's device management software. The App Store cavort now more than 65,000 programs that were created specifically for the iPad. In total, more than 350,000 apps available for download (March 2011).

Internet and again no flash

Apple's browser is "good", the UMTS speed is as fast as the first iPad The wireless performance was in the test rooms, however not as good as its predecessor. The new generation is no Flash content dar. So the Apple Tablet denied on many websites continue the service if it comes to shopping, movies or mini-games.

Availability and prices

IPad 2 since 11 March in the U.S. and from 25 March 2011 in Germany and several other countries in the trade. On space, nothing changes, the prices are even partially been easy: There are models with 16, 32 and 64 gigabytes of storage available. For Wireless model requires Apple depending on memory size 479, 579 and 679 $. The WLAN / UMTS version beats with 599, 699 and 799 euros. Act as provider for the UMTS version of this country again Telekom, O2 and Vodafone, which operates iPad but with each micro-SIM card - provided data plan.

Conclusion: iPad 2

IPad 2 is impressive, flat, lightweight and fits comfortably in your hand. The dual-core processor speeds up games and apps noticeably expensive than its predecessor. This allows applications that were known previously only as notebooks and desktop computers. The camera is good only for video and video chat. The trump card played by the iPad in software from: The operation is simple, the wide range of apps, music and videos is currently unique.

Alternative: Apple iPad 1

IPad one does not have any camera and complex games do not run as fast, but still it is a tip. Who pays special attention to a scratch-resistant display and top battery life, travels with the device of the first generation of even better - and cheaper. The starter model with 16 gigabytes of storage space is priced at 379 euros Apple. The price comparison to get it even cheaper sometimes (March 2011).

The main differences between iPad 1 and iPad 2
In search of a top-Tablet: In the COMPUTERBILD 8 / 11 (Release Date: March 26, 2011), see the big comparison between iPad 2 and the Motorola Xoom, the competitor with the Android operating system.

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