iPad 2 review

Apple's new tablet is the best of its kind, but is it really good enough?

ipad 2 review
The Apple iPad 2 is not quite the step forward that many were expecting

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One of Apple's standout features that bridges its full catalogue of products, the iPad 2's interface is a joyously simple, intuitive and easy to follow system which, thanks to the recent iOS 5.1 update is identical to that found upon the newer and more expensive third-generation iPad.

iPad 2 review

Arguably the most intuitive user interface found on any tablet device, Apple's iOS software makes the iPad a device that can be picked up by any tablet novice of technophobe alike and be transformed into an app filled, internet browsing, video playing, photograph capturing powerhouse in a matter of hours.

The iPhone replicating operating system is largely responsible for pioneering the app-based interfaces that now dominate the portable device scene.

iPad 2 review

Utilising its simplistic app-based OS, the iPad 2 features an easy to adopt point and shoot style user interface with consumers required to make use of the expansive 9.7-inch highly reactive touchscreen in order to navigate their way through menus, desired programmes and dedicated tasks.

iPad 2 review

With fast reaction times, little fuss when opening and navigating through applications and barely any fanfare when connecting the device to Wi-Fi and 3G networks, the iPad 2 is almost faultless in its performance with hardware and software combining seamlessly on a number of fronts to produce a device that is a match to the needs and requirements thrown at it by all manner of users.

For those wannabe iPad 2 owners who demand strong internet connections wherever they are, the tablet's optional 3G network connectivity features are simple to set up with self-assigning network tethering ensuring strong signal wherever available that helps transform the iPad into a truly portable device despite a form factor that cast a number of shadows when first introduced in 2010.

iPad 2 review

Thanks to the inbuilt 25 watt-hour rechargeable lithium polymer battery, the new iPad predecessor plays host to a touted 10 hour battery life that rings true when doing little more than browsing web pages through Wi-Fi means, listening to music and creating the odd note or document.

iPad 2 review

Throw more power-hungry tasks at the device such as app use or downloading and the working day encompassing battery life quickly diminishes with gaming a metaphorical plug to the battery's power reserves.