Apple iPad 2 fever has hit Australia with the new touchscreen device available from 5pm AEDST in Apple stores and authorised retailers today. Online orders already opened at 1am this morning.
Apple fans have already queued for several hours to buy the iPad 2. First in line at Sydney’s Apple store is technology consultant Alex Lee, who despite already owning an iPad 2—bought when it launched in the USA recently—will wait almost 50 hours to buy the iPad 2 in Sydney for his sister.
Reports from the US release reveal that the Apple iPad 2 is faster, lighter and cheaper than its predecessor.
The iPad 2 sports a faster processor to deal with increasingly sophisticated apps, which improves graphics viewing, according to Apple.
The new Apple device has also lost weight, down more than 100g from 730g to 613g, and comes in at a lower price point than the original iPad. The iPad 2 starts at $579 for the entry-level 16GB with Wi-Fi model.
One key feature added to the iPad 2 is its front and back camera, which enables users to videoconference on the go, and may lure previously unconvinced SME owners into using it as a business tool.
Dynamic Business blogger MYOB’s Julian Smith reported that the first iPad was “truly liberating” for business owners on the go, highlighting its convenience as an accessible viewing and reading platform, and this version will be no different.
Digital media creator Amy Barratt-Boyes of Write On Beat agrees, noting she uses the iPad to build her brand’s Facebook community “by having it to hand in-situ”.
Business solutions provider Talk Ezy Group listed “exchange email, remote desktop, faster processor and the front and rear cameras” as the most anticipated iPad 2 features.
Key additions for iPad 2:
- Dual-core A5 chip (faster)
- FaceTime (video calling and movie recording)
- iPad Smart Cover (attachable cover and convertible iPad stand)
- LED backlit display (better graphics)
- iOS 4 (new mobile operating system)
- Wi-Fi and 3G options (connectivity)
Are you looking to buy an Apple iPad 2? Which new features attract you?
