New iPad Review & Giveaway - Win Yours Today!

New iPad: A Comprehensive Review

The iPad continues to dominate the tablet market, establishing itself as a highly sought-after device. For those new to the iPad experience, the latest model presents a compelling option as a versatile all-purpose tablet.

Owners of the original iPad will find a significant upgrade in the new iPad, making it a worthwhile investment. If you are currently using an iPad 2, your existing device remains quite capable.

Longevity and the Retina Display

iPads are known for their durability, and if you’ve managed without a Retina display thus far, you may find the upgrade less critical as initial excitement diminishes.

What was initially anticipated as the iPad 3 is now officially designated as the new iPad. This shift in naming convention is, in our view, a positive adjustment.

Apple consistently identifies its products by their names – iMac, Mac Mini, and MacBook Pro are prime examples. Adopting a similar approach for iPad generations will likely prove beneficial long-term. It is speculated that future iPhone releases may also follow this naming scheme, becoming known as "the new iPhone."

Introducing the Third Generation iPad

The third generation iPad (released in 2012) was unveiled on March 7, 2012, and has since been delivered to customers worldwide. This review will assess its improvements over the iPad 2 and the original iPad.

We will explore the features of the new iPad and determine if it’s a worthwhile purchase. Our assessment is based on a 16GB WiFi iPad, which will be given away to a fortunate reader.

Continue reading to discover how you can win a new iPad!

Key Features and Considerations

Performance: The new iPad offers a substantial performance boost compared to previous generations.
Display: The Retina display provides a significantly sharper and more detailed visual experience.
Longevity: iPads are built to last, offering years of reliable service.

The Latest iPad: A Detailed Overview

The newest iPad has been updated by Apple with several enhancements. These include a Retina Display, improved graphics capabilities, 4G (LTE) connectivity, an upgraded rear camera, increased battery capacity, and voice dictation functionality. While some have expressed that the changes are incremental, even underwhelming, a firsthand experience is recommended before forming a judgment.

Although the specifications may not appear drastically different, the impact of these upgrades is substantial. The Retina Display, in particular, consistently impresses users.

Core Components and Performance

Powering the new iPad is Apple’s custom A5X chip. This chip utilizes a dual-core 1 GHz architecture, mirroring that of the A5 chip found in the iPad 2. The key distinction lies in the inclusion of a quad-core graphics engine, specifically designed to support the high resolution of the Retina Display.

Furthermore, the new iPad boasts 1 GB of RAM, doubling the memory capacity of the iPad 2 and quadrupling that of the original iPad, which featured only 256 MB of RAM.

This increased processing power translates to a noticeably improved user experience. Web browsing is more fluid, application switching is faster, gaming is more immersive, and video playback is more enjoyable. The larger battery ensures up to 10 hours of use on a single charge, even with the power-hungry Retina Display.

Pricing and Availability

The new iPad is offered in a variety of configurations, starting at a price of $499. Available options include 16 GB, 32 GB, and 64 GB models with WiFi, as well as Verizon LTE and AT&T LTE versions. Each configuration is offered in both black and white finishes.

LTE models carry a $130 premium over their WiFi counterparts. For those prioritizing media consumption, the 32GB LTE model represents a compelling balance of features and cost, priced at $729.

Competitive Landscape

Alternatives in the same price range include the 32 GB Samsung Galaxy Tab and the 32 GB ASUS Transformer Prime, both available for approximately $600.

However, the longevity and reliability associated with Apple products often justify the additional investment. As a long-time user of the original iPad, I can attest to its durability and continued functionality even after multiple iOS updates.

In my case, having successfully used the original iPad through iOS versions 3, 4, and 5, I currently don’t need to upgrade, though the desire for the latest technology is certainly present.

First Look: Unboxing the New iPad

Consistent with Apple’s design philosophy of simplicity, the iPad’s packaging contains only the device itself and a limited set of accessories. These include a power adapter, a USB cable, and essential documentation.

The unboxing experience is deliberately streamlined. You’ll discover a Getting Started guide, warranty details, and the iconic Apple stickers.

Minimalist Packaging & Environmental Consciousness

Apple consistently prioritizes minimizing its environmental impact. Therefore, excessive packaging materials are avoided, ensuring only the necessary components are used to protect the iPad during shipment.

The focus remains on delivering the product securely while reducing waste.

This commitment to sustainability is a hallmark of Apple’s approach to product delivery.

Design

The design of the latest iPad closely resembles that of the iPad 2. Both models feature a 9.7-inch screen, framed by either a black or white bezel. They share common elements like a central Home button, volume controls, a mute/orientation lock switch, a dock connector, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Furthermore, both devices include a MicroSIM slot on 4G LTE versions and a curved metallic back panel. A visual comparison of the original iPad, the iPad 2, and the newest iPad is provided below.

Immediately noticeable is the increased weight of the new iPad. The 16 GB review unit felt substantially heavier when compared to a 64 GB 3G iPad 2. While the weight difference is approximately 40 grams (0.09 lbs), it is still quite apparent.

This added weight is largely due to the larger battery, which boasts a 70% increase in capacity over the iPad 2. Despite this, battery life remains consistent at around 10 hours, as the Retina Display demands more power.

Below is a side-by-side comparison of a 64 GB 3G iPad 2 (left) and a 16 GB WiFi new iPad (right). The new iPad is marginally thicker. Cases designed for the iPad 2 may not be compatible, but sleeves and portfolio-style covers should fit without issue.

Getting Started with Your New iPad

Your new iPad is pre-loaded with the most recent iteration of iOS 5. This enables a PC-Free setup experience, allowing immediate use upon powering on, assuming a wireless network is accessible.

A detailed exploration of iOS 5’s features is beyond the scope of this guide, as a comprehensive manual is already devoted to that topic.

Key Features of PC-Free Activation

The iPad can be activated and configured without requiring a connection to a computer.
This streamlined process is facilitated by the inclusion of iOS 5.
A stable wireless connection is necessary to complete the initial setup.

This feature simplifies the initial user experience, eliminating the need for traditional computer-based synchronization or configuration.

Users can begin enjoying the iPad’s capabilities immediately, provided they have access to a Wi-Fi network during the activation process.

Retina Display

The initial experience of activating the device was striking, largely due to the quality of the Retina Display. Its impact is best understood firsthand, as photographs cannot fully capture its brilliance. This new screen incorporates over 3 million pixels within its 9.7-inch frame, boasting a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels.

To provide context, many 27-inch LCD monitors typically operate at 1920 x 1200 pixels. The new iPad, however, features a greater pixel density packed into a smaller area. However, these figures shouldn’t be the sole basis for judgment; a visit to an Apple Store to interact with the device is recommended to truly appreciate its capabilities.

Compared to the first-generation iPad and iPad 2, the new iPad’s screen offers four times the pixel count. This results in a significantly more vibrant and clearer visual experience. Text rendering is more refined, and images appear with greater fidelity. In contrast, the screens of earlier iPad models appear noticeably dated.

Pixel Density Comparison

The Retina Display on the iPad (above) is contrasted with the display from an iPad 2 (below). The reduced pixel visibility on the Retina Display contributes to a more realistic image.

Beyond technical specifications, how does this translate to practical use? The enhanced clarity improves the enjoyment of tasks such as web browsing, email correspondence, and ebook reading. Furthermore, when combined with the A5X’s graphics processing capabilities, 3D gaming on the new iPad reaches a new level of immersion.

A slight yellowish hue is observable on the new iPad’s screen when compared to previous iterations. The image below illustrates this difference, displaying (from left to right) a first-generation iPad, an iPad 2, and the new iPad, all set to the same brightness level.

iSight Camera on the iPad

A significant enhancement in the latest iPad generation is the redesigned rear-facing camera system. The previous 0.9 MP camera, present in the iPad 2, has been replaced with a 5 MP iSight camera. This new camera incorporates the same five-element lens configuration with an f/2.4 aperture as the iPhone 4S.

The quality of images captured by the upgraded iSight camera represents a substantial leap forward compared to the iPad 2, exhibiting increased detail and improved contrast levels. Its autofocus capabilities are responsive, and it also includes face detection technology.

The front-facing camera retains its VGA resolution.

Image Comparison

The following images showcase business cards from MOO, offered for a limited time. The image on the left was captured using an iPad 2, while the image on the right was taken with the new iPad model.

Below are cropped portions of the preceding images, displayed at their actual size for detailed comparison.

Practical Usage

Although the iSight camera delivers commendable performance, it’s improbable that it will become your go-to camera. The iPad’s size makes it less practical for everyday photography compared to a smartphone.

However, it serves as a useful addition for occasional snapshots. Its presence offers convenience, even if it isn’t a frequently utilized feature.

Furthermore, the camera supports 1080p video recording, complete with image stabilization. When combined with iMovie for iOS, the new iPad becomes a capable device for aspiring video creators.

Voice Dictation on iPad

The latest iPad includes voice dictation functionality, though it doesn't offer the comprehensive personal assistant features found in Siri. This feature enables text input through speech; simply tapping the microphone icon allows users to dictate text into any text field.

Voice dictation proves useful for composing emails, creating notes, and navigating the web. Initial testing indicates a good level of accuracy and ease of operation.

Transitioning from Traditional Typing

However, as a user accustomed to typing on the original iPad, I sometimes find myself reverting to manual input. The convenience of typing remains preferable for those with proficient typing skills.

For individuals who type quickly, direct text entry is often a less cumbersome and more efficient method. It can be less frustrating than relying on voice recognition.

The existence of Voice Dictation is sometimes overlooked when a user is already comfortable with typing.

Is Purchasing an iPad a Wise Decision?

The iPad continues to dominate the tablet market and represents a compelling purchase for many. For those new to the iPad ecosystem, the latest model is a remarkably versatile option worthy of consideration.

Current owners of a first-generation iPad will find a significant upgrade in the newest iteration; the improvement is undeniable and justifies the investment.

If you are currently using an iPad 2, your existing device remains quite capable. iPads are known for their longevity, and if you’ve managed without a Retina display thus far, its absence likely won’t be a major concern as initial excitement diminishes.

Enter to Win!

We are offering one fortunate MakeUseOf reader the chance to win this 16 GB WiFi review unit. Details on how to participate in the giveaway are provided below.

Here's how you can enter the competition:

Follow @makeuseof on Twitter.
Retweet this post: [Link to the tweet].
Leave a comment on this post telling us what you would use the iPad for.

The competition will close on [Date]. The winner will be selected at random and notified via Twitter.

Good luck to all participants!

Participating in the New iPad Giveaway

Winning a new iPad is straightforward; simply adhere to the outlined steps.

Step 1: Completing the Entry Form

Kindly submit the form using your actual name and email address. This ensures we can contact you should you be selected as the recipient.

The necessary activation code for the form can be found on our official Facebook page.

The promotional period has concluded. Our sincere congratulations go to Denise Richardson, the lucky winner! An email notification has been dispatched to you.

Please contact us before April 20th to arrange claiming your prize.

Step 2: Spread the News!

You are nearly finished. The final requirement is to share the giveaway announcement. Two options are available, or you may choose to complete both!

Engage with the post on Facebook by pressing the 'Like' button.

Alternatively, share the announcement on Twitter to broaden its reach.

This promotion commences immediately and concludes on April 11th. Winners will be randomly chosen and notified through email correspondence.

Inform your acquaintances and enjoy the opportunity!

Are you interested in sponsoring a future giveaway event? We welcome your inquiries. Please reach out to us.

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