Websites have been in overdrive with speculation over the past few months as to what could be expected in the new Apple iPad 3, ranging from edge-to-edge display, no home button, retina display like the iPhone 4S and the list goes on.
Today, we can end the speculation and confirm what is actually part of the new release of the most popular tablet computer and I’ll explain what it means for businesses.
While the release has disappointed some and to look at the device there isn’t much difference from its predecessor, the new iPad brings some much needed performance upgrades.
Let’s look at the new key features:
- Retina display meaning sharper text and colors.
- Increased resolution to 2048 x 1536.
- New A5X chip that increases the performance.
- Dictation.
- iSight camera providing better photos and 1080p HD videos.
- 4G LTE wireless technology allowing faster connections.
- Improved battery life.
Retina Display
By far, the coolest new feature is the Retina Display. Providing crisp images like the iPhone 4S, the new display has a resolution of 2048 x 1536 with 3.1 million pixels. Perfect for client meetings to show off that awesome presentation or scrolling through photos to showcase your portfolio.
The Guts: A5X
Are you using business apps or remotely connecting into your office? The new iPad will give you that extra grunt needed to speed things up. The extra power is needed for the graphics but reportedly doesn’t affect the battery life and you can still expect 10 hours of power which is needed for a day of work away from a power source.
Talk to your iPad
We all know the feeling of rushing between meetings all day and then getting back to our hotel room dreading how many emails you have to respond to. Picture laying back in your hotel room and just dictating all your email replies. The new dictation feature allows you to send emails & texts, browse the web and write notes all by just talking.
A Camera You’ll Want to Use
The new iPad introduces the iSight Camera, capable of taking 5-megapixel still photos. This is going to provide business users with the ability to take photos that can be used in presentations, portfolios or websites. It’s a major improvement and considering its built into the iPad it eliminates having to carry a camera around for client meetings, inspections or even site/venue scouting. The new camera is also capable of shooting video in 1080p High Definition. This will be great for recording presentations, meetings or tours and being able to replay them in a quality that people will want to watch.
Weight & Dimensions
The new iPad does come in a little heavier and thicker but not by much. The new Wi-Fi model is 1.44 pounds (652 grams) compared to the old 1.33 pounds (601 grams). The new Wi-Fi + 4G is 1.46 punds (662 grams) compared to the old 1.35 pounds (613 grams). It’s new depth is 0.37 (9.4mm) inches compared to the old 0.34 (8.8mm)
Summary for business
Overall, the new iPad has some great new features that will help take business to the next level. I would’ve liked to have seen more new features, especially ones for business considering the increasing number of people using them now within their businesses to make their jobs easier or become more productive. I won’t be rushing out to pre-order one for when they become available on March 16, but would like to think I’ll have one in the next 6 months.
I’ve provided a review from a business perspective. Have a look at this review from the Mashable website to see what they had to say.
Question: Will you be upgrading to the new iPad or sticking with what you already have? You can leave a comment by clicking here.
About Shane Mackintosh
