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“I have been debating whether to buy an iPad 2 for some...”

written by lukeromeril on 26/03/2011

I have been debating whether to buy an iPad 2 for some time. I love the iPad, it is a superb device for web browsing, music and video, and app entertainment. I was most disappointed when it was announced that the higher resolution (Retina) display wouldn't be included, but to be honest, it takes a great deal of battery power to generate that many pixels, therefore you would compromise one of the key selling points of the iPad, its 10 hour battery.


So, I went to Regent street... and I queued. It was a great experience, I met some lovely people and we all had fun discussing the new device, going over our expectations, and really enjoying the atmosphere. I'm sure a few people enjoy taking the mickey out of the queue, but 'don't knock it till you have tried it'... it was just good fun , and I got to enjoy the sun. It was well organised to, the staff made their way down the queue asking which version of the iPad you wanted, they would then provide you with a ticket for that version, so you knew you are going to get the one you wanted before reaching the store.


So on to the device itself, I chose the black 32gb Wi-Fi version. I decided against 3g as I plan on getting a Wi-Fi hotspot device that provides 5 devices with internet. I felt 32gb was enough, having owned the 32gb iPhone. 16gb didn't seem quite enough. The device was £479, less than the original iPad I believe.


As with all Apple products, opening the box is a joy, such quality. the iPad is right on top, on display as you open the box, and it looks fantastic.


I took it out, and it feels perfect. the weight is enough to feel like a quality product, but not heavy. It so slim!!! incredible when you consider what's inside. Part of me wishes they had gone down the iPhone 4 route as far as styling goes, but that's just because I love the iPhone 4... don't get me wrong, this looks great.


The connection experience is the same as any other apple, plug it in and go. register on iTunes, set up find my iPad, add some apps and your away.


The screen is nice and bright, and looks somehow better than the iPad 1; Somewhat sharper, even though it is the same resolution.


Not much to say about the interface other than it is every bit as perfect as the other ios devices, spot on.


It has face time preinstalled, which I am yet to use, to be honest I use Skype, as you can call anyone with that and it doesn't need Wi-Fi.


Photo booth is a new addition, allowing effects and filters to be applied to your pictures using the touch screen to alter the generated image, a nice new fun app.


The battery lasts 10 hours. That is pretty amazing for a device with such an array of features.


The one thing I have been looking forward to the most? Garage Band! I downloaded it in advance of buying the iPad and boy is it good. Those familiar with the Mac version will know it's great for budding musicians, or just those wanting to make noise with instruments; and the iPad version is superb. supplying drums, keyboards, guitars and guitar amps, I see many hours of using the iPad for actual creativity, not just whiling away hours.


It's still very new, but so far I am so pleased I got it... a superb product, that is cheaper than its predecessor.