Technology Author: Rachael McNaught

It was only in 2010 that the iPad first appeared on the market and consumers went gaga over the possibilities that it presented. The ability to have all your entertainment and browsing features in one very portable tablet was just much to bear for some. But for others the iPad was the dream machine and they flocked to it like sea- gulls to fishing trawlers!

Just when you thought that technology couldn't get any more advanced, Apple has bought out the iPad 2. So what has this latest edition to the Apple stable got over its predecessor?

Well, let's start with what hasn't changed. They both have the same 9.7inch screen size and memory capabilities, but what has changed is that the iPad 2 is 33% thinner than the original. For something that was only 13.4 millimeters to start with that 5.5 mil difference is pretty cool. Apple also shaved more than 100g off the weight of the Wi-Fi and 3G version to create a tablet that is thinner, lighter but that still feels sturdy enough to use on the subway without your hands cramping up after 10 minutes.

A lot of hype has gone into the release of the iPad 2 and its increased speed and power. The reality is that unless you are into applications that require intense graphics then you probably won't notice much of a difference from the iPad. You browser will load at the same speed and you won't get your emails any sooner and both models are available with Wi-Fi and 3G connectivity.

The iPad 2 has the addition of another camera, so that you can get full-on FaceTime (the Apple version of Skype). The ability to live video conference is one that is in its infancy and has much potential for the future.

The iPad 2 comes with a range of 'smart covers'. These are a thin covers that magnetically hold onto your iPad. These covers are built to be used in many ways, fold them one way and you have a stand for your iPad, fold them another and your iPad is in a position that is easy to type from. The covers also offer some protection for your tablet and when you close the lid, your iPad 2 will shut down.  

With over 70,000 iPad applications available through the Apple store they remain the leader in application availability for these electronic tablets. While there has been some suggestion in the past that some applications can not keep up with the speed of the new iPad most of these have now been updated accordingly.

Don't forget that with both the iPad and iPad 2 you can download novels from most online retailers including the Kindle store, Google books and Nook.

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