Written by Jessica Ardrey
On March 11, Apple released the long-awaited iPad 2 to stores in the U.S. The reveal was met with lines that wrapped around buildings, some stores selling out entirely within a few hours.The iPad 2 features multiple upgrades from its predecessor. Like the iPhone 4, it comes equipped with both front and rear facing cameras, enabling popular FaceTime video calling, and other regular photo apps. It also comes with classic programs like Photo Booth, iMovie and GarageBand.One of the best features, according to Syfy’s tech website DVICE, is the iPad 2’s Smart Cover. It fits over the screen with magnets to prevent damage. When the cover is put in place, the machine goes to sleep, and it immediately wakes up as soon as the cover is lifted.”Maybe I’m being facetious, but the Smart Cover is, in my mind, the coolest and most innovative aspect of the iPad 2,” DVICE tech reviewer Stewart Wolpin blogged. “Smart Cover really is really cool, a brilliant bit of engineering and styling.”The iPad comes in various models. Buyers can choose the color (black or white), the capacity (16, 32 or 64 GB) and the wireless options (WiFi, AT&T 3G or Verizon 3G).The general consensus from experts is that the iPad 2 does not disappoint. And while they suggest buyers not expect it to necessarily become their primary computers, they also say it is quite addictive. “As long as you align your expectations for iPad 2 with the purpose it was created, you should be happy with your purchase,” AppleInsider’s Daniel Eran Dilger said. “Don’t expect it to completely replace your notebook or desktop computer, but do expect it to become your favorite way to browse content, play games, create hands-on documentsand even music and movies.”Video games are one aspect of the iPad 2 that are greatly enhanced. Smoother graphics and more complex simulations have some software developers excited. “Play Kalei” is the working title for a game that actually lets the gamer take a photo with the iPad 2 camera and use it as a level. It is scheduled for release within the nextcouple of months.Director of Campus Life Corey McEntyre purchased the black WiFi 16GB model the day it came out, and he said he likes the mobility of the machine. He also said, however, that increasing board storage is far too expensive.”I think it’s kind of ridiculous that to double the capacity it’s $100 more,” McEntyre said. “It really puts you at a disadvantage with apps that don’t keep all their content on the iPad and you have to rely on your Internet connection to load up-to-date content.”Regardless, he said he is extremely pleased with the iPad 2.”This is literally the greatest thing I have ever purchased,” McEntyre said. “I’ve already clocked over a hundred hours of ‘Veronica Mars’ on Netflix.”
