Apple has announced the next generation of the iPad- iPad 2. The device boasts of a significant redesign from its predecessor. There’s a lot that’s new about the iPad 2. It’s thinner, lighter, and 2x faster than the original iPad. Here are the specifications of this new beast. It is powered with A5 processor, two cameras (front and back), 33% thinner than the original iPad, HDMI support and having many new apps. Hit the jump for complete info on the iPad 2.




Availability


The iPad 2 is also available in white alongside the original black cover. The white iPad 2 will be available for purchase from day one. From Apple’s press release,

Pricing & Availability : iPad 2 with Wi-Fi will be available on March 11 for a suggested retail price of $499 (US) for the 16GB model, $599 (US) for the 32GB model, $699 (US) for the 64GB model. iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G will be available for a suggested retail price of $629 (US) for the 16GB model, $729 (US) for the 32GB model and $829 (US) for the 64GB model. iPad 2 Wi-Fi + 3G compatible with the Verizon network will be available in the US only for a suggested retail price of $629 (US) for the 16GB model, $729 (US) for the 32GB model and $829 (US) for the 64GB model. iPad 2 will be sold in the US through the Apple Store.

Pricing is staying the same from the original iPad. Just Walk into an Apple store next Friday after 5 PM to buy it or you can just order online.

Features And Specs




The iPad 2 has dual cameras for FaceTime video chat, iMovie and PhotoBooth. The iPad 2 utilises Apple’s  faster A5 chip to deliver up to 9x faster graphics performance. Battery life has remained the almost the same ; the iPad 2 boasts 10 hours of battery life.


The iPad 2 will also allow for HD mirroring to an external monitor with Apple’s new HDMI adapter. In the past, users have had to jailbreak their iDevice for screen mirroring.

Accessories and Software


Apple has launched a new Smart Cover for the iPad 2. The design works with a magnetic strip in the iPad 2 that wakes the device to and from sleep when the cover is used. The Smart Cover has cutting-edge crisp looks, and the choice of color and material for the screen cover are wider than ever.

Check out more about Apple’s Smart Cover here.

iOS 4.3 Update


With next Friday’s iPad 2 launch, Apple will be releasing iOS 4.3 for all GSM-based iDevices on March 11th. Apple made it clear that iOS 4.3 would only be coming to the GSM iPhone, so Verizon users will have to wait a little longer.

Read our iOS 4.3 article to learn more about Apple’s iOS 4.3 announcement.

Will you be washing your hands on an iPad 2 ? Let us know what you think of Apple’s next-gen iPad 2 in the comments section below.