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As many new iPhone owners can attest to, the Apple tablet is worth it. The device comes with all the features any tablet owner would want, and it works exceptionally well. More than anything, though, the Retina Display and 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE) wireless technology make the new iPad a much better option for todays consumers than any other tablet on the market right now.
However, the new iPad doesnt come without its flaws. In fact, the device has been dogged by complaints from users that its overheating in one area of its back casing, and others have said that they have trouble connecting to a WiFi network from the tablet. Still others say it takes forever to charge the device.
For consumers who might be thinking about buying the new iPad, knowing those flaws and having an understanding of some of the things that might not appeal to them is important. With that in mind, heres a look at some of the potential flaws or issues consumers might face if they decide to buy a new iPad in the coming months.
1. The heat issue
Apple has caught some heat for its new iPad’s running at higher temperatures than the iPad2. For its part, Apple has said that the new iPad operates at a maximum of 95 degrees Fahrenheit, which is in line with its expectations, but some have said it gets much hotter. While some owners havent faced too many troubles with the iPad overheating, every case appears to be different.
2. Charging takes awhile
According to many new iPad owners, charging the device takes an inordinate amount of time. In this writers experience, the iPad does take some time to charge, but its not nearly as bad as some people think. However, if youre one of those folks who lets the battery drain to the near-end before charging, expect it to take several hours before the tablet fully recharges.
3. Its the same design
For consumers who expect something new and exciting from Apple every year, the new iPad falls short from a design perspective. When compared with the iPad 2, Apples latest launch features the same basic design and comes with no notable improvements. Whether or not thats an issue, of course, depends on the customers and their expectations.
4. Expensive?
Theres no debating that the new iPad is expensive. The device starts at $499 for the WiFi-only, 16GB option, and can run customers as much as $829 if they want the version with all the bells and whistles. Add that to the cash 4G LTE iPad owners will need to lay out each month, and it becomes clear Apples tablet is one expensive proposition.
Those Who Want Something More Than the Same Old iOS Feel Might Be Disappointed
5. Its a slightly smaller screen size
Although Apple has stuck with the 9.7-inch display with all three iPads, the new tablet is facing off with products that go a step further, boasting a 10.1-inch offering. Although that might not seem like a lot, the difference is quite noticeable. And when trying to view video or scroll through a Web page, its an issue. Apple should have delivered a bigger Retina Display in the new iPad.
6. Still no ports
Arguably one of the new iPads biggest flaws is its lack of available ports. There is no USB port on the new iPad, nor a place to plug a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) cable directly into the tablet. Instead, Apple forces customers to buy adapters that can hook into the devices Dock connector. When will Apple finally offer ports in its iPad?
7. Developers are behind
Due to Apples desire for secrecy, the company doesnt tip its product plans to many developers before an announcement. That has historically resulted in developers being behind Apple in bringing programs to the market that can match the devices functionality. As of this writing, for example, a shockingly small number of apps fully take advantage of Apple’s Retina Display.
8. WiFi issues
According to some new iPad owners, the device has some trouble connecting to WiFi signals, and in some cases, doesnt allow users to even get on the Web through WiFi. In my experience, the iPad has connected to WiFi networks without any trouble, but its something to at least keep in mind before making a purchase.
9. No Siri
Before Apple launched the new iPad, just about everyone thought that the device would come with Siri support. Unfortunately, Apple didn’t go that far, and decided instead to offer voice dictation from the device. While that feature works exceedingly well, its no Siri. And thats a problem.
10. iOS 5.1 isnt a major improvement
Apples new iPad ships with iOS 5.1, an operating system that certainly gets the job done and behaves the way customers would want, but doesnt break any new ground in the mobile space. For those who are used to iOS and happy with its functionality, thats a good thing. But those who want something other than the same old iOS feel will be sorely disappointed by the software.