What’s New In iPad 3?
Apple once again sets the bar a little higher with the newly released iPad 3. Generally, the new version of Apple’s famous tablet has similarities as well as differences when compared to its most recent predecessor, the iPad 2. However, no one can deny that the iPad 3 has topped many techie buffs’ must-have lists.
Appearance
In terms of appearance, the iPad 3 looks very much like the iPad 2. However, it’s actually one millimeter thinner than the latter, making it easier to store and lug around. The fact that it’s 2.5 ounces lighter shows that Apple has been making improvements on the iPad’s mobility.
The original plan was for the iPad 3 to come in six colors: white, black, steel blue, gray, cobalt, and tie-dye. Currently, however, it is only available in its classic steel gray shade.
Retina display
While the iPad 2 had great graphics, the iPad 3 kills it by going one step further. Taking up the front line, the Retina Display is one of the most notable changes in the iPad 3, and the crisp image quality turns the already remarkable iPad visual experience into something more. Apple has definitely outdone itself, paking a chock full of pixels into the 9.7-inch screen, which now boasts a 1536 x 2048 pixel resolution, 44% more color saturation, and an astounding 3.1 million pixels packed into its screen.
This has noticeable implications on the iPad 3’s screen, and viewing photos and videos are practically eye candy on it.
Camera
There’s also Apple’s inclusion of a 5 megapixel rear camera on the back (an improvement on the iPad 2’s resolution), and the standard VGA camera on the front for Facetime. Called the iSight camera, the image quality is a considerable improvement from the previous model’s, as well as the ability to shoot 1080p videos.
The iSight camera features advanced optics, such as a f/2.4 aperture and a five-element lens, meaning the latest iPad is capable of capturing more light, resulting in fresher looking photos. The hybrid infrared filter is worth mentioning, too, as this feature is generally only seen in SLR cameras.
Software
Application speeds are also substantially faster, what with the A5 processor, quadcore graphics and the upgrade from the previous iPad’s 512 MB to 1 GB of RAM. A lot of people were looking forward to Apple’s installation of the A6 processor in the new iPad, but the A5 processor does relatively fine, compared to processors of old iPad models.
The iPad 3 also comes preinstalled with iOS 5.1. It’s a great combination really, as the iPad 3 gives you both the updated operating system, and the necessary speed capacity to perform multiple commands with minimal lagging.
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Critics have dismissed the iPad 3 as a buffed up remake of the iPad 2, but a quick run through the specifications show that it is clearly not. With infinitely better graphics, higher speeds and a more than passable rear camera, the iPad 3 has definitely upgraded its capabilities as a tablet.
About the Author:
Amy C. is a gadget junkie who likes writing about the latest in mobile technology. When she’s not researching recent software releases, she spends time working for Greyside Group, a maritime security and executive protection company, with its office administration and blogging activities. To learn more about Amy’s take on everything techie, stay tuned for her next post.
