Thoughts on the “new iPad” (AKA iPad 3)

It’s been a year since my last entry (so bad of me), but with the release of the “new iPad” I had to comment.

I’m still loving my original iPad from May 2010 – yes, I do call it “Mr. Smudgy.” Although it’s close to 2 years old, it’s still going strong and able to handle anything I give it. The release of the iPad 3 does have me concerned since I know Apple will eventually make it obsolete by not updating the software to run it. Already, iPhoto for iPad is for version 2 or later since it requires a front camera to use it. Why this is necessary is beyond my comprehension because you can easily get photos from an iTouch via iCloud or simply use the Apple supplied SD card reader to transfer images from a camera. Apple can’t be that short-sighted so I must assume they want people with the original iPad to considered upgrading now.

While some aspects of the new iPad are attractive (ability to create a Wifi hotspot for one) but there is nothing truly compelling me to upgrade. Thanks, Apple, for making such a great product in the original iPad. It’s one of the best technology investments I’ve ever bought.

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Do I want the iPad 2?

Don’t misunderstand — I love my iPad 3G. I take it nearly everywhere with me. I’ve gotten used to the weight and I have a new shoulder bag to tote it around. I took it to Spain last December and it worked beautifully with a MiFi rental from XCom Global.

I sometimes wish the iPad were lighter but I wonder if the iPad 2 is appreciably different. I’m not lusting for the dual cameras on the iPad 2, either. Also, I’m lucky to have the discontinued unlimited data plan on AT&T and I can use it nearly everywhere I go.

What I really covet is the Smart Cover! I need a light but effective cover that can double as a stand when I type on the iPad. That fact that it also turns the iPad on or off is just the icing on the cake.

Apple, please make a Smart Cover for the original iPad!

 

Yes, I got my own iPad 3G!

I waited until the 3G version came out and bought the top of the line. It arrived on May 7 and has been my trusty companion ever since. Our relationship was easily set in cement that first weekend because I was sick and couldn’t sit at the computer for very long and I needed entertainment in the worst way. The iPad is a godsend!

I have the unlimited plan from AT&T so while waiting at the doctor’s office I could surf to my heart’s content. I get good reception in Metro stations and in some of the tunnels, too. I haven’t tried to upload every app in creation and most of the ones from my iTouch work just fine on the iPad.

Is it perfect? Of course not. In some environments the screen is horribly reflective and it’s very headache making, Sometimes the keyboard is a little too sensitive but that will take practice. And, yes, it’s very smudgy.

However, if you are Ike me and don’t really need a laptop but would like to keep in touch, surf, Facebook, watch movies & TV, listen to music and read books, this could be the device for you.

Now I’m on the lookout for a decent bag and perhaps some Bluetooth headphones. Any suggestions out there?

Yes, I did write this entry from my iPad but the Woodpress interface is a little chunky and hard to figure out how to publish.