Apple announced a whole new class of device yesterday with the introduction of the iPad. It is essentially a large iPod Touch, but with some interesting features. Here is a summary iPad hardware details: - 9.5 inches tall, 7.5 inches wide and .5 inches deep.
- Screen resolution is 1024×768.
- Uses a new Apple A4 processor.
- Multitouch screen with more than 1000 sensors.
- Accelerometer, compass, light sensor, WiFi and Bluetooth.
- Optional 3G as well, unlocked. Takes a GSM micro sim card.
- 10-hour battery life.
- Uses iPhone/iPod dock connector.
- Includes built-in speaker and a microphone.
- Headphone jack.
- On/Off/Sleep, Home, mute and volume buttons.
The software for the iPad is version 3.2 of the iPhone/iPod Touch OS. This is not a Mac. To get additional software you will need to purchase it from the App Store. All existing iPhone apps should work on the device, with the ability to pixel-double the size to better fit the screen.
In addition, there will be some iPad-specific apps, such as Apple’s own iWork applications: Pages, Number and Keynote. There will also be a iBooks app for reading eBooks, and Apple will be launching the “iBookstore” for purchashing eBooks.
AT&T will be offering 3G data plans for the iPad in the U.S., including a $30/month unlimited plan. You can prepay for plans, apparantly without a contract.
There are some accessories planned, including a dock stand with a full-sized keyboard and a SD card adapter.
The price for the iPad will be $499 for the base WiFi-only 16GB model, then $599 and $699 for 32GB and 64GB models. Add $130 to each of those for the optional 3G.
The WiFi-only models will be available in late March, while the 3G models will come out a month after that.
In other news, Apple reported quarterly results on Monday which included new records for Macs and iPhones. It was Apple’s best performing quarter ever with record profits.