Apple did not disappoint with its special announcement yesterday. First, we got to hear the news from Steve Jobs, which is a bit of a surprise since he has stepped back from day-to-day operations at Apple for medical reasons. Second, the news itself, the iPad 2, showed a number of exciting improvements over the original.
The most functional of these improvements are the two cameras: an HD camera on one side and a VGA camera on the other, similar to the iPod Touch. Along with these will come two new standard apps: Photo Booth and FaceTime. In addition, a version of iMovie for the iPad was demonstrated that will improve upon the current iPhone 4 app with more features. There will also be a version of the music creation software GarageBand for the iPad.
In addition to the cameras, the iPad 2 sports a faster dual-core A5 processor, a thinner and lighter design and an internal gyroscope for gaming and other apps. A new HDMI accessory will allow for screen mirroring on a second display or television. A special magnetic cover accessory will act as a screen protector, screen cleaner and stand. The new iPad will use iOS 4.3 which will bring improvements to Safari, Home Sharing and AirPlay.
“I assure you, sir, that this is the new Thunderbolt port. It is not a sign that your Mac survived an attack by Voldemort.”
Apple unveiled a major update to its MacBook Pro line today, updating all models with new processors and a brand new data port. The 13-, 15- and 17-inch MacBook Pros now all feature Intel i5 and i7 processors. The lower-end 13-inch model with a 2.3GHz i5, and the upper end 17-inch model can come with a 2.2 or 2.3GHz i7.
All MacBook Pros come with the new Thunderbolt connector, which combines the existing Mini DisplayPort connector with the ability to attach data devices such as hard drives and video hardware. Several devices can be connected to a single port. This is the first use of Intel’s “Light Peak” technology, renamed Thunderbolt for Apple. For now it can be used as a Mini DisplayPort connector with existing displays and converter cables to VGA, DVI and HDMI displays. But in the future it will connect many other types of devices at speeds much greater than USB2, Firewire or even USB3.
The new models also inlcude a new built-in camera. It is called the “FaceTime HD Camera” rather than an “iSight” and has 720p resolution. The FaceTime for Mac app is now available in the Mac App Store for $0.99, but comes with the new MacBook Pros.
The new MacBook Pros all come with the Intel HD Graphics 3000 built-in chipset. The 15- and 17-inch models will also have a AMD Radeon HD 6490M or 6750M for use when not using the battery. Built-to-order options include solid-state drives. The 17-inch model has the option for an antiglare display.
Next week will be another big week for Apple as they have announced a special event for March 2. All signs point to the announcement of a new iPad.
“I used my iTunes gift card to buy an app that helps me find deals on gift cards so I can buy more apps.”
Apple unveiled its recurring billing option for iOS apps this week. Previously developers could charge you for an app at the time of purchase, or you could initiate a one-time in-app purchase of additional content or access. With subscriptions, you can now opt to be charged on a regular basis for ongoing content updates such as newspaper or magazine content. Payment would happen through the iTunes system and your iTunes account.
Apple also created new rules for charging for in-app content. App makers can have their own system for collecting subscription fees, as long as the Apple system is also offered as an option. But publishers are unhappy with the rules as Apple takes a larger 30 percent cut of the price. Publishers will also have a harder time reselling customer information from app store purchases, a practice that is a big revenue stream for print magazines.
Apple released its annual Supplier Responsibility Progress Report which details the results of an internal audit of working conditions and environmental issues involving Apple subcontractors.
Problems in the past year include high worker recruitment fees, underage workers, and several suicides in the Chinese factories used to manufacture most of Apple’s hardware. The report details violations and steps Apple has taken to better the situation.
“Thanks to Ping, now all my friends know how boring and unhip my music collection is.”
This morning Apple and Verizon stores began selling the iPhone specifically built for the Verizon network in the U.S. Lines were tiny or non-existant because many ordered online up to a week ago. Some estimates put the pre-orders at as much as one million phones. Another reason for small lines is that the Verizon iPhone is available today at Best Buy and Walmart as well as Apple and Verizon, which may spread out demand.
Of course the Verizon iPhone isn’t really a new product either. It is essentially the same iPhone 4 that AT&T customers had had since last summer. Some buyers may be waiting for the next generation of the iPhone, expected by most for this summer.
More rumors this week of the next generation iPad. Some report that Apple has already started production, which would be in line with an April release. There is even a far-fetched rumor that a third generation iPad may be out this fall.
The guy at the Genius Bar told me the same thing I read in my “for dummies” book. I guess I’m having trouble because I’m somewhere in between.
