Apple has done the official deed, and made the announcement for the second-generation iPad the real deal. Kicking off at 10 AM Pacific Standard Time in sunny California, the event is all about the iPad 2 and what Apple has done to make the second version of their tablet device better than the first iteration. One of those things will more than likely be iOS 5, and the improvements to multitasking and notifications. And truth be told, I’m just as excited for iOS 5 as I am about the iPad 2.
For some, just having the iPad 2 is more than enough. They want the latest and greatest when it comes to Apple hardware, and they want to have a better iPad than the original one. And for some who chose not to be an early adopter of Apple’s first tablet, they’re just waiting to get their hands on one in general. But for me, it’s just as much about the software side of things as it is the hardware.
I’m excited for the same size but better display. And I’m excited to see how much processing power the next iPad has. And I’m curious to see how thin it is, and how it feels when you hold it for extended periods of time. But, more than all of that, I’m excited to see how Apple has improved multitasking. It’s no surprise that Apple implemented their own version of multitasking, and it will be interesting to see how they believe they can improve upon it, and make it more usable for the consumer.
And then there’s the whole notifications thing. Let’s face it; Apple’s notifications are not the best. And, to be frank, they’re quite annoying. They were cool when the iPhone first launched, but in the face of Android, webOS, and even Windows Phone 7 they just seem archaic and in-your-face. And I’m not a fan of that at all. So I want to see how Apple changes their notifications, and if it will actually be a change worthy of stage time at Apple’s event.
Like I said above, I think the software in iOS 5 is going to be just as important as the hardware. While the improvements in each version of the iOS platform have been unique for the most part, I think it’s iOS 5 that Apple can really change the game for their devices, and breathe a breath of fresh air into them. We don’t have long to wait to see if it comes true. Of course, that means Apple actually has to announce and show off iOS 5, which many rumors are pointing towards happening. So I've got my fingers crossed.
What do you think? What are you most excited to see when March 2nd hits, and Apple shows off the second-generation iPad? Or will you be skipping the event, in hopes of getting your hands on another tablet instead? Let me know in the comments below.
