While the iPad 2 might be an evolutionary (not revolutionary) update to Apple's line of iPads, many of us, are planning on grabbing a second generation iPad once it's released, on March 11. However, not everyone understands the need to upgrade an iDevice every year. And, some Apple fans may endure a rigorous interrogation by their partner before they (and their credit card) can get inside an Apple Store come launch day.
At AppAdvice, we're here to help you out. Below, I've included an overview of some of the prepared speeches I'm ready to deliver when asked "exactly why" I need an iPad 2.
It's prettier
You and your partner are probably going to end up spending a lot of time with the iPad 2, which is why the device needs to be easy on the eyes. Last year, we thought the first generation iPad looked nice, and it still does. But, you have to admit, the iPad 2 looks a while lot nicer.
It's faster
The second generation iPad is a whole lot faster than the first, meaning you won't be waiting as long for Facebook to load in Safari, or for
Twitter to sync with your account. The iPad 2's speed is made possible because of the device's dual core A5 processor. Furthermore, the second generation iPad maintains the first generation's battery life, 10 hours, thanks to the inclusion of a
much bigger battery.
I can edit our home movies with iMovie
Apple is releasing an iPad version of
iMovie with the new device, meaning you can edit your home movies in high definition, on your iPad 2. Already, an iPhone and iPod touch version of
iMovie is available. However, the application will definitely look a whole lot better on the second generation iPad's bigger screen.
I can serenade you with GarageBand
Apple is releasing an iPad version of
GarageBand, too - it'll run much faster on the second generation iPad.
You'll be able to play Angry Birds on our HDTV
The iPad 2 supports
screen mirroring at 1080p, meaning you'll be able to play your favorite apps on your iPad, and have the video image mirrored by your high definition television. This is an incredibly handy feature. Furthermore, iPad users will be able to watch HD movies (at 720p) and listen to audio tracks, over their high definition television, all thanks to the upcoming
Apple Digital AV Adapter - which will be available for $39.
I won't scratch this one
The second generation iPad launches alongside a rather cool new cover designed specifically for iPad 2. If you haven't already heard about them, "Smart Covers" attach magnetically to your iPad 2, and protect the screen. Furthermore, you can bend the cover around, and use it to prop up your tablet in a variety of different positions. For more information, check out the
appropriate section of Apple's website. Alternatively,
here are all the articles we've written about Smart Covers. The covers will retail for $39 (polyurethane) and $69 (leather).
FaceTime
If your girlfriend owns an iPhone 4, iPod touch (4G), or a Macintosh computer, this is definitely something you'll want to mention. With the release of the iPad 2, Apple's tablet is joining the FaceTime family - meaning you'll have another means of contacting one another.
It's for work
Apple's iWork for iPad suite means you can do work on your iPad (in
Pages,
Numbers, or
Keynote) and e-mail documents to colleagues, or transfer them to a desktop computer once you've reached the office.
You can have my old iPad
Just kidding! If you own the original iPad, get that bad boy on eBay and use the money you make from selling it to buy the iPad 2 - if your partner will let you ...
Finis
That's all folks, hopefully this checklist will help you out. If you're about to walk into a confrontation about buying the second generation iPad, you might want to consider printing this page just in case you have a mental block. Good luck! And, if you have any of your own justifications for buying an iPad 2, feel free to post them in the comments.