Apple iPad 2 Announced: Specs, Features, Price and Availability

As expected, Apple announced today its next iteration to the original iPad slate called iPad 2.



iPad 2 comes with better specs and features that include the new dual-core A5 processor for faster performance and strikingly impressive graphics, built with both front-facing VGA camera for FaceTime and rear-facing camera capable of 720p HD video recording and playback, built-in gyro for advanced gaming, HSUPA support, HDMI Video Mirroring that lets users mirror their iPad screen on HDTV, and would run on iOS 4.3 with the Personal Hotspot feature first seen on the Verizon iPhone 4.

iPad 2

It’s thinner and lighter than the original iPad, and while retaining the same 9.7-inch LED-backlit LCD display- iPad 2 can still delivers up to 10 hours of battery life.

iPad 2 Playing Movie

Apple also announced the availability of the Smart Cover accessory which is actually a protective option designed uniquely for iPad 2. It’s built with self-aligning magnetic hinge allowing users an alternative option to wake or put the tablet to sleep, while safeguarding the screen and keeping it clean.

iPad 2 with Smart Cover

iPad 2 Prices and Availability



Apple iPad 2 will be available on March 11 in the US both black and white models, through the Apple Store, its retail stores and authorized resellers. Check out pricing schedules for both Wi-Fi only model and Wi-Fi + 3G model below.



iPad 2 Wi-Fi Only Model

16GB $499

32GB $599

64GB $699



iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G

16GB $629

32GB $729

64GB $829



iPad 2 will be available to selected countries on March 25 including: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the UK.



Here in the Philippines, I’m not yet safe saying it would be available sometime on Q3 – but let me guess it will land here not later than October this year. Anyway, I’ll just let you know once we got more info about iPad 2 release here in the country.



Update: iPad 2 Already Available in Philippines



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