New iPad

Apple declined to give the new iPad an official name along the lines of “iPad 3” or “iPad HD” (two rumored monikers). In broad strokes, the device greatly resembles its predecessor, the iPad 2.

The new iPad features a rear-facing 5-megapixel camera capable of shooting 1080p video.

The latest iPad features a high-resolution Retina Display (2048 by 1536 pixels).

The new iPad relies on a new, proprietary A5X processor to drive its various functions.

The new iPad is ever-so-slightly thicker and heavier than the iPad 2, but it’s virtually indistinguishable when the two tablet versions are hefted side-by-side.

Apple has revamped many of its apps in time for the new iPad’s launch, including iPhoto. The updated version lets users edit an image with their finger, tap to apply effects and organize with a few quick swipes.

Another app, iMovie, lets users take full advantage of the new iPad’s 1080p video-shooting capability to create movie trailers and short presentations.

Those who use Apple’s presentation software could get more out of it, thanks to the new iPad’s high-definition screen and faster processor.

The iPad’s brushed aluminum backing is nearly identical to that of the previous iPad versions.

Apple hopes that the App Store and its hundreds of thousands of offerings will help preserve its lead over Google Android in the tablet space.

The new iPad (right) and iPad 2 (left), side by side.

The new iPad will keep the same prices as the previous model, starting at $499 for WiFi-only versions, and $629 for those with 4G capability. Prices top out at $699 for the WiFi-only, 64GB model and $829 for the 64GB model with WiFi and 4G.