New iPad arrives – What can it do for you?

Mobile business solutions

By Erica Rascón on Mar 9, 2012 in Technology | 4 Comments

Property management firms are increasingly likely to turn to mobile devices like iPads to aid in the on-site residential lease-up process. IT managers for major multi-family and commercial management firms say that they’re using the devices to keep their employees better connected, impress potential residents, and steam line business processes.

This week, Apple gave the public a sneak peek at its latest release, the new iPad (commonly known as the iPad 3). While there are still quite a few user requests that have gone unfulfilled, the new iPad boasts multiple noteworthy advancements.

Memory & Processing

The new iPad unveils the A5X, a more efficient way to do business. This ARM chip is touted to operate twice as fast as NVIDIA’s Tegra 3 quad core processor. Users are now able to access and run multiple applications with speed and agility.

Connectivity

Connect via HSPA+ (21Mbps), DC-HSDPA (42Mbps), and LTE (73Mbps) on Apple’s premiere tablet, which works excellently for travelers that may be in and out of 4G LTE range.  Enjoy quicker access to multiple Virtual Private Networks via Wi-Fi or cellular data network connections. The range of connection options allows users to work seamlessly with the fastest connections available on the market. The hourglass and loading bar are relics of the past.

In place of the Bluetooth 2.1 with EDR technology, new iPad users receive the solid Bluetooth 4.0. Additionally, users can operate the device as a personal hotspot and connect to other devices via USB.

Display

Apple’s newest tablet flaunts a crisp, stunning Retina display with 2048 by 1536-pixel resolution—at  only 264 pixels per inch; it seems as though Apple was holding back, not pushing the envelope in terms of sharpness. Even with that detail in mind the screen resolution is better than comparable items on the market.

The 9.7inch touch screen remains unchanged with fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating.

Media

The iSight 5-megapixel camera stands leagues above its predecessor. The camera will automatically detect faces and autofocus, or users can tap to focus. Record video in HD at 30 frames per second, which is ideal for creating 360 degree virtual tours of properties.

The new tablet does not have a microSD slot or a Mini Display Port like the iPad 2, restricting media transferability. Contrary to rumor, the new iPad did maintain the 30 pin dock connector which allows users to connect to televisions, projectors, or VGA displays.

Body

The new iPad looks identical to the iPad 2 and is available in black and white. It’s a tad heavier, at 1.46 pounds versus 1.33 pounds (with 4G). It’s infinitesimally thicker at 0.37 inches instead of 0.34 inches. The average user will not notice a difference between the iPad 2 and the new iPad.

Battery life stays the same from the previous version, giving users 10 hours of use with liberal use of applications.

Pricing

Like the iPad 2, consumers have three tiers of memory to choose from, and the option of adding 4G to Wi-Fi capabilities. Prices start at $499 for the 16 GB Wi-Fi only version and $629 for 16GB Wi-Fi + 4G.