What many expected to be called the iPad 3 but actually turned out to be simply referred to as the ‘
new iPad’ was launched in March 2012. The new iPad is available as a Wi-Fi version and a Wi-Fi 4G in 3 different memory sizes,
16GB, 32GB and 64GB. The 4G version connects to more wireless networks than ever with improved speed, but there’s one snag with this – 4G is not yet available in the UK. However do not fear as 3G in the UK is actually very fast and you could therefore save yourself some money by buying the Wi-Fi version, unless of course you plan on using your iPad abroad.
Retina displayOne of the major differences between the new iPad and the iPad 2 is the retina display - this is how Apple refer to the HD display. The new display is 4 x better than that of the iPad 2 and has over 3000 mega pixels, which is 1 million pixels

more than an HDTV! One thing to note with this feature is that many apps and movies are not being produced in such high resolution yet, therefore it might be a while before you get to enjoy the full benefit. However one thing’s for sure if you purchase a new iPad it will definitely be future proof!
Despite the weight of the iPad 2 decreasing when compared with the original iPad, the new iPad Wi-Fi is actually slightly heavier at 652g, that’s 51g heavier than the iPad 2. And if you do opt for a 4G version then add an additional 10g. The new iPad is slightly thicker too at 9.4mm, but the difference really is barely noticeable.
Camera
One element of the iPad 2 that let it down was the quality of the camera, but Apple have rectified this by fitting the new iPad with a 5 mega pixel camera which uses the same optics as the camera in the iPhone 4 – so you can be sure to get crisper, cleaner pictures.
Processor and batteryAll this new technology requires a bigger system to run it right? Of course! The new iPad has an A5X Processor with quad

core graphics, so when you’re watching movies or playing games the tablet will compliment the HD screen and provide you with seamless interaction and viewing. Apple has ensured that the battery life doesn’t suffer either; you can still use the iPad for 10 hours straight before you’ll need to charge it up.
Voice dictationAnother nice little add on is voice dictation, if you type a lot of notes or are all fingers and thumbs when it comes to using a keyboard this will come in really handy. You just speak to the iPad and it will type your words for you.
PriceSo the question many people will have on their minds is ‘should I opt for an iPad 2 or a new iPad?’ Well it depends on what you want to use it for. If you are really into your gaming and watching HD movies then you’ll get maximum benefit out of the new iPad. And then of course there’s the camera – the chances are you wouldn’t use your iPad as your main camera, but if you are very keen on the idea of taking your iPad out and about then the improved camera is a massive benefit. If you are likely to be a casual user, want a convenient way to surf the web and are interested in using apps then the iPad 2 might be a better option. Plus with the arrival of the new iPad, the iPad 2 it has come down in price to £329, so now is a great time to bag yourself a bargain.
What if you already own an
iPad 2 and are thinking of upgrading? Well there isn’t a noticeable difference between the iPad 2 and the new iPad besides from the display. Yes it’s got a bigger processor but you won’t notice a huge difference when it comes to speed. The display really is the main improvement, so you may want to consider your options here.