NEWS ANALYSIS: The first batch of early Apple iPad reviews is in. So far, it appears that most critics agree on what they like about the new iPad and what they don't. But what can users glean from that?
Apple's
new iPad might be launching March 16, but there have been several reviews of
the device cropping up around the Internet as of late. And as one might expect,
many of those reviews are glowing of the device, which boasts 4G LTE, the
Retina Display, an improved camera and iOS 5.1.
As
with previous iPad launches, the new Apple tablet is already a favorite
with both critics and tech analysts.
Reviews
are an important part of the buying process. Although not everyone might agree
with what one person who has used the device for the past week might say, they
give some indication into what the experience might be like to use such a
product. What's good? What's bad? What could be improved? Those are the kinds
of questions reviews answer to help consumers determine if they should buy the
device or hold off and wait for something else.
Knowing
that it's somewhat of a pain to sift through all the reviews that have cropped
up around the new iPad,
eWEEK thought
it might be worth it to help you get the finer points in one place. So, here
are some of the themes that have been coming up in all the new iPad reviews
that have landed.
1. The Retina Display is incredible
Nearly
all new
iPad
reviewers can agree that the Retina Display found in Apple's tablet is
top-notch. And why wouldn't it be? The screen boasts a higher resolution than
any HDTV on the market, and is a major step up over the standard display found
in Apple's iPad 2. Look for the new iPad's Retina Display to be its chief
selling point.
2. The new iPad is slightly heavier
Just
about every reviewer has mentioned that the new iPad is slightly heavier than
its predecessor. However, only the New York Times' David Pogue took too much
issue with it, saying that the slate will feel a bit heavy and cumbersome to
iPad 2 owners after prolonged use.
3. The 4G LTE is nice
Although
Apple didn't spend too much time discussing
the
4G LTE found in the new iPad, several reviewers say it was a treat to be
able to connect to the ultra-high-speed network from the device. However, be
warned that coverage is not universal right now, with Verizon Wireless only
covering 200 million people and AT&T hoping to get to 150 million by year's
end.
4. It's the same old thing
Take
a look at the iPad 2 and the new iPad. See many differences? No? Well, neither
did the reviewers. But the folks over at the Verge didn't think that was
necessarily a bad thing, saying that that the device's design is still
"best in breed" in the tablet space. So, as long as Apple's decision
to not deliver a new look doesn't bother you, the new iPad should make you
quite happy.
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