At 5pm on Friday, March 11, Apple launched the second-generation iPad. Even though Apple did not allow pre-orders, lines were short compared to that of the original iPad launch. The new iPad has 9 different models, ranging from $499 to $829. It has new dual-core processors that dramatically enhance graphic performance, and two cameras, one on each side, for taking pictures and video chatting. In addition, its brand new design is 33% thinner and lighter than before. Its models work on both AT&T and Verizon’s 3G networks. The new iPad is better than the original, yet costs exactly the same.
The new iPad is indeed very enticing, but for some people, it fell short of their expectations. According to a CNN article by Chris Taylor, Apple skimped out on major features that it could have easily put on the iPad 2. Such features include a memory upgrade from the current 256 megabits, higher retina display resolutions, and better built-in cameras, which stands at a meager 1.3 megapixels. Is it possible that Apple is deliberately holding back these features for the next generation iPad? Supply Chain Management professor Jeff Miller certainly thinks this is the case.
“It’s a lot to ask people to spend on a new product basically 11 months after the last product, but [that’s] nothing new” said Miller. “Apple is holding back because they can.”
Nevertheless, millions of Americans are flocking to stores to purchase the tablet PC. Apple sold one million units during from March 11 to March 13.