eWEEK content and product recommendations are editorially independent. We may make money when you click on links to our partners. Learn More.
Apple has finally unveiled the new iPad, a device that Apple says is the most revolutionary improvement to the computing space since it launched its first tablet a couple years ago. The device comes with 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE) support, a “Retina Display,” voice control, and a host of other features. Its not necessarily the groundbreaking improvement consumers and enterprise users were hoping for, but its a notable step up, nonetheless.
For Android vendors, the new iPad is a major concern. Although the iPad 2 was beating their devices handily, the iPad 3 combines the finer parts of its predecessor and adds in a host of other things both consumers and enterprise users will find appealing. If the iPad 2which is still available, by the waycan beat products like the Amazon Kindle Fire or the Samsung Galaxy Tab, what makes anyone think the next iPad cant?
The new iPad shows that Apple is still the top tablet maker, and Android tablets have a new competitor to worry about.
1. Its the iPad, isnt it?
Apples iPad, regardless of the version or functionality, should be enough to strike fear in the hearts of Android vendors. Apples tablet is the most sought-after device on the market, and something that is a force to be reckoned with, no matter what it might offer. Until Android vendors can find a way to overcome Apple and its iPad, theres no stopping it.
2. The Retina Display matters
Apples new iPad comes with the Retina Display that has become popular in the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S. According to Apple, the Retina Display will deliver even higher quality than anything on the market so far, and will likely put all Android alternatives to shame. Dont forget that.
3. So does 4G LTE
For the first time, Apple has bundled 4G LTE connectivity into one of its mobile devices. According to Apple, the new iPad will feature support for both AT&Ts LTE network, as well as that of Verizon Wireless. Its not groundbreaking, of course, but it eliminates one major advantage competitors had been clinging to for the last year.
4. Pricing is essential
One of the smartest things Apple could have done with the new iPad was keep its price the same as its predecessor, the iPad 2. Customers looking to buy the new tablet will be forced to pay $499 and up. Its no bargainespecially when compared to the Kindle Firebut any price hike would have been harmful to the devices appeal.
The New iPads Rivals Have No Answers to It
5. They have no answer to the features
All in all, the new iPad is not a major step up over the iPad 2. And yet, the devices competitors have no answer to all the features that are available in it. Theres no Retina Display competitor, and 4G LTE is no longer an advantage. Plus, the design compromises others make are hurting their adoption. Until Android vendors have a strong answer to the new iPad, what can they do to keep Apple at bay?
6. Hotspot functionality is huge
Interestingly, Apple decided to make the new iPad a hotspot, letting users who dont have ready access to a WiFi or 3G signal connect to the Web through the tablet. Hotspot functionality is something that is often overlooked in the consumer market, but for enterprise users, its a huge selling point. Expect the new iPad to be an enterprise favorite because of that feature.
7. The A5X is a game-changer
Just about everyone believed that Apple would be launching the A5 processor in the new iPad, but what they didnt know is that the company had the A5X in the works. With the help of the A5X, Apple can deliver dual-core processing power and quad-core graphics, providing a far better experience than most folks have grown accustomed to. How will Android vendors respond?
8. Timing is everything
Apple says that it will be launching the new iPad March 16. Thats important. Rather than try to launch a product too soon after the holidays or allow the device to get caught up in the holiday spending spree, Apple waits until later in March to offer up its new tablet. That results in millions of people around the globe loading up their wallets and heading down to their local Apple stores to buy the device. Timing is everything with new product launches, and Apple understands that better than anyone.
9. Dont underestimate the gaming
During its press event, Apple allowed some game developers on stage to show off the titles they have optimized for the new iPad. According to Apple and developers, those games will deliver an even better experience than what folks will find in the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. How many Android tablets can make the same claim?
10. Apps, apps, apps
If Apple made anything clear at its new iPad event, its that applications are a key ingredient in its success. And the vast majority of application developers are working with Apple rather than Android or any other operating system. So, until Android tablet makers can get around the apps issue, theres no winning the market.
Follow Don Reisinger on Twitter by clicking here