A new iPad

So, the latest iteration of iPad was announced last week. The new iPad, as it is named, is supposed to “have redefined yet again the category that Apple created just two years ago with the original iPad.”
 
Me, I’m not convinced. Let’s have a look at the facts, the improvements announced are as follows:

• A better processor
• Retina display
• 4G LTE mobile broadband
• 5 Megapixels camera

 
The only suprise in all of this is the 4G LTE mobile broadband, and frankly, I think it is intended and designed a way of locking the user in to a particular carrier. Why? Because there will be separate versions for Verizon and AT&T. The implication is that, if you have the Verizon version, it will not work on AT&T and vice versa. In addition, they will not work outside of USA. Battery times remain the same, which means they must have been boosted enough not to lose out as compared to the iPad 2.
 
The market for the new iPad will be owners of the original iPad and new owners. Some owners of the iPad 2 will be interested, but frankly, there is not enough new things to warrant the upgrade, particularly not at the prices they are asking.
 
I think the fact that Apple seem to be moving away from the numbered nomenclature is a good move, a sound move, and a move that will serve them well in the future. I also think that the name is less important than what most people seem to think.
 
By the way, the iPad 2 will remain in trade, with a $100 discount compared to today’s prices.