iPad 2 Primer: What To Expect

The wait for iPad 2 is finally over. In a matter of hours, Apple will unveil the 2nd generation iPad to further strengthen its grip on the tablet market. Surprisingly, Apple’s competitors are yet to come up with a tablet that could kill the first generation iPad. iPad 2 is expected to be thinner and feature a wider, higher quality display. It is likely that this new device will have 2 cameras, one for taking pictures and one for FaceTime.

iPad is already a powerful player in the mobile entertainment business. iPad 2 is expected to have a larger built-in speaker for video and music playback. A 128 GB model, three-axis gyroscope, and  a mini-USB universal charging port are also planned for this device. MobileMe is also expected to get an overhaul shortly. iPad 2’s exact shipping date is tough to guess at this point. However, some retailers have started removing the first generation iPads from their websites already. iPad 2 will most likely be Verizon 3G friendly too.

At this point, it is not clear whether Steve Jobs will be present at this event. He was present for the unveiling of the first iPad and also iPhone 4. However, he has been struggling with his healthy recently. Chances are he will make an appearance to put some of the vicious rumors going around to bed.

Apple has not given us a hint that the new iPad will be more expensive than the original one. The screen will be better but not a full retina one. It is hard to imagine Apple changing its pricing strategy now that it is tightening the screws on its competitors.

What would you like to see in iPad 2?