iPad 2 Launches, Apple's Post-PC World, IT Anxiety, Pages Video Tutorial, New Cases, and More

This has been a huge news week for iOS devices - so big that we've made the decision to divide the iNews Review into separate editions, this one specifically for the iPad and another one for news and press releases that are not specific to the iPad, including the release of iOS 4.3.

Mac notebook and other portable computing is covered in The 'Book Review, and general Mac news is in Mac News Review.

All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.

News, Reviews, & Opinion

• Apple Launches iPad 2
• Apple Posts iPad 2 Guided Tours
• We're All Living in Apple's 'Post-PC' World
• Warming Up to the Post-PC Era
• How to Resist Your iPad 2 Craving
• iPad 2 the Best Tablet Yet, but Cameras Disappoint
• Why Nearly Everybody Will Want an iPad 2
• Will the Cloud Curb Interest in 64 GB iPad 2?
• Apple Builds on A4 Microprocessor Success with A5
• Apple's iPad 2 Provokes IT Anxiety
• Apple iPad 2 vs. Motorola Xoom
• Gartner Lowers PC Sales Forecast as Tablets Redefine the PC's Place

Apps & Services

• Video Tutorial on Pages for iPad
• Create Custom Greeting Cards with CardsFactory HD for iPad

Accessories

• Belkin Unveils a Range of Innovative Accessories for iPad 2
• M-Edge Announces Accessories for iPad 2

Protection

• Marware CEO Hybrid Case for iPad 2
• Marware Eco-Vue for iPad 2 Case
• BoxWave Manhattan Elite iPad Travel Case
• BoxWave True Bamboo iPad Case
• BoxWave True Wood iPad Case
• BoxWave Manila iPad Leather Envelope

iPod Deals

These price trackers are updated every month.

• Best iPad deals
• Best classic iPod deals
• Best iPod touch deals
• Best iPod nano deals
• Best iPod shuffle deals
• Best iPhone deals

News, Reviews, & Opinion

Apple Launches iPad 2

PR: Revised Design is Thinner, Lighter & Faster with A5 CPU, Plus FaceTime, Smart Covers & 10 Hour Battery

The iPad is just 0.34" thick.

SAN FRANCISCO - March 2, 2011 - Apple today introduced iPad 2, the next generation of its magical device for browsing the web, reading and sending email, enjoying photos, watching videos, listening to music, playing games, reading ebooks and much more. iPad 2 features an entirely new design that is 33% thinner and up to 15% lighter than the original iPad, while maintaining the same stunning 9.7" LED-backlit LCD screen. iPad 2 features Apple's new dual-core A5 processor for blazing fast performance and stunning graphics and now includes two cameras, a front-facing VGA camera for FaceTime and Photo Booth, and a rear-facing camera that captures 720p HD video, bringing the innovative FaceTime feature to iPad users for the first time. Though it is thinner, lighter, faster and packed with new features, iPad 2 still delivers up to 10 hours of battery life⁸ that users have come to expect. iPad 2 is available in black or white, features models that run on AT&T's and Verizon's 3G networks, and introduces the innovative iPad 2 Smart Cover in a range of vibrant polyurethane and rich leather colors.

"With more than 15 million iPads sold, iPad has defined an entirely new category of mobile devices," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "While others have been scrambling to copy the first generation iPad, we're launching iPad 2, which moves the bar far ahead of the competition and will likely cause them to go back to the drawing boards yet again."

With the new front and rear cameras, iPad 2 users can now make FaceTime calls to millions of iPhone 4, iPod touch and Mac users so they can see family and friends anywhere there is WiFi. Photo Booth lets you apply fun visual effects, including eight photo special effects like Squeeze, Twirl and Kaleidoscope, to photos captured by either camera.

iPad 2 comes with iOS 4.3, the latest version of the world's most advanced mobile operating system, with new features including faster Safari mobile browsing performance; iTunes Home Sharing; enhancements to AirPlay;⁹ the choice to use the iPad side switch to either lock the screen rotation or mute audio; and Personal Hotspot to share an iPhone 4 cellular data connection over WiFi.¹⁰ Additional iPad 2 features include a built-in gyro for advanced gaming; HSUPA support for enhanced 3G upload speeds on iPad 2 WiFi + 3G on AT&T, and HDMI Video Mirroring that lets users mirror their iPad screen on an HDTV using an optional adaptor.

The iPad 2 comes in black or white.

The new iPad 2 Smart Cover provides protection for the iPad screen while maintaining its thin and lightweight profile. Designed with a unique self-aligning magnetic hinge that makes it easy to attach and remove, the new iPad 2 Smart Cover automatically wakes iPad 2 when it's opened and puts it to sleep when it's closed, and has a soft microfiber lining to help keep the screen clean. The Smart Cover also folds into a stand for typing or viewing videos and is available in vibrant polyurethane for $39 or rich leather for $69 in a range of colors, including a (Product) Red one which helps support the Global Fund to fight HIV/AIDS in Africa.

Apple also introduced two new apps: iMovie and GarageBand for iPad, both available on the App Store for just $4.99 each. With iMovie, iPad 2 users can shoot and edit videos right on their iPad and post their movies to YouTube, Facebook, Vimeo and their MobileMe gallery; watch them on their iPod, iPhone or iPad; as well as view them on their HDTV using AirPlay and Apple TV. GarageBand turns your iPad into a collection of touch instruments and 8-track recording studio, allowing you to perform with onscreen keyboards, guitars, drums and basses using multitouch gestures - even if you don't play a musical instrument.

iPad 2 runs almost all of the over 350,000 apps available on the App Store and there are more than 65,000 native iPad apps available from an incredible range of apps in 20 categories, including games, business, news, sports, health, reference and travel. The iTunes Store gives iPad users access to the world's most popular online music, TV and movie store with a catalog of over 14 million songs, over 50,000 TV episodes and over 10,000 films including over 3,500 in stunning high definition video. The iBooks app for iPad includes Apple's iBookstore, the best way to browse, buy and read books on a mobile device.

iPad 2 Features: More to It, Less of It

Two cameras for FaceTime and HD video recording. The dual-core A5 chip. The same 10-hour battery life.¹ All in a thinner, lighter design. Now iPad is even more amazing. And even less like anything else.

Thinner, Lighter, and Full of Great Ideas

Once you pick up iPad 2, it'll be hard to put down. That's the idea behind the all-new design. It's 33% thinner and up to 15% lighter, so it feels even more comfortable in your hands.² And it makes surfing the web, checking email, watching movies, and reading books so natural, you might forget there's incredible technology under your fingers.

Dual-Core A5 Chip - Fast, Times Two

Two powerful cores in one A5 chip mean iPad 2 can do twice the work at once. You'll notice the difference when you're surfing the web, watching movies, making FaceTime video calls, gaming, and going from app to app to app. Multitasking is smoother, apps load faster, and everything just works better.

Superfast Graphics - Go, Gamers

With Apple claiming up to nine times the graphics performance, gameplay on iPad is even smoother and more realistic. And faster graphics help apps perform better - especially those with video. You'll see it when you're scrolling through your photo library, editing video with iMovie, and viewing animations in Keynote.

Battery life keeps on going. So you can, too.

Even with the new thinner and lighter design, iPad has the same claimed 10-hour battery life - enough juice for one flight across the ocean, or one movie-watching all-nighter, or a week's commute across town. The power-efficient A5 chip and iOS keep battery life from fading away, so you can get carried away.

Two Cameras, And A Big Hello To FaceTime For iPad

You'll see two cameras on iPad - one on the front and one on the back. They may be tiny, but they're a big deal. They're designed for FaceTime video calling, and they work together so you can talk to your favorite people and see them smile and laugh back at you.³ The front camera puts you and your friend face-to-face. Switch to the back camera during your video call to share where you are, who you're with, or what's going on around you. When you're not using FaceTime, let the back camera roll if you see something movie-worthy. It's HD, so whatever you shoot is a mini-masterpiece. And you can take wacky snapshots in Photo Booth.

iPad Smart Cover - Designed For iPad. And Vice Versa

iPad 2 and the iPad Smart Cover are made for each other. Literally. AppleDesigned the iPad Smart Cover to work side-by-side with iPad - and on top and underneath it, too. Smart magnetic technology built into each really pulls them together. The iPad Smart Cover falls perfectly into place and stays put to protect your iPad screen, yet doesn't add bulk to its thin, light design. Open the Smart Cover and your iPad wakes up instantly. Close it and your iPad goes to sleep automatically. And here's another smart part: It transforms into the perfect movie-watching, game-playing, web-surfing stand. It comes in 10 bright colors - including five in rich, aniline-dyed Italian leather. Choose your favorite, and your iPad will be smart all around.

iPad is one big, beautiful display - 9.7 inches of high-resolution photos, movies, web pages, books, and more. LED backlighting makes everything you see remarkably crisp, vivid, and bright. Even in places with low light, like an airplane. And there's no wrong way to hold iPad. It's designed to show off everything in portrait and landscape, so with every turn (even upside down), the display adjusts to fit. Because it uses a display technology called IPS (in-plane switching), it has a wide, 178° viewing angle. Hold it up to someone across the room, or share it with someone sitting next to you, and everyone gets a brilliant view.

Multi-Touch - Everything At Your Fingertips

Technology is at its best when it feels completely natural, almost like there's no technology at all. That's Multi-Touch on iPad. You use your fingers to do everything, so everything you do - surfing the web, typing email, reading books, and swiping through photos - is easier and a lot more fun. How does it work? When your fingers touch the display, it senses them using electrical fields. Then it instantly transforms your taps, swipes, pinches, and flicks into lifelike actions. Just like that.

iOS 4 - The World's Most Advanced Mobile Operating System

iOS 4 is the operating system for iPad (along with iPhone and iPod touch). It lets you browse, read, and see everything just by touching the screen. It includes all the powerful, innovative, and fun built-in apps you use every day, many times a day. And it's the platform on which more than 65,000 other amazing apps have been created for iPad. It's highly secure, stable, and responsive, and it's made to work seamlessly with the iPad hardware. iOS 4 is the reason no other device has yet come close to iPad.

Instant On - The Fun Starts Fast

Pick up your iPad, press the Home button, and it wakes from sleep instantly. That's because iPad features fast, efficient, and reliable flash storage that lets you access data quickly. Everything springs to life.

WiFi and 3G - Two Great Ways To Stay Connected

Every iPad is built with advanced 802.11n wireless technology. It automatically finds WiFi networks, which you can join with a few taps. iPad is also available with 3G connectivity on either AT&T or Verizon Wireless networks. So if you're somewhere without WiFi, such as outdoors on a camping trip or on the road, you can still surf the web, check email, or get directions.⁵

Gyro, Accelerometer, And Compass

With the built-in accelerometer, you can rotate iPad to portrait or landscape, or even upside down, and whatever you're watching, reading, or seeing adjusts to fit the display. And now the accelerometer, three-axis gyroscope, and compass all work together. They sense which direction iPad is heading and how it's moving. So games, maps, and other apps know your every twist, turn, tilt, and 360. It's an epic win for gaming. And it's just the beginning of better-than-ever iPad apps.

AirPlay - Your Movie-Photo-Music Stream

All the great stuff on your iPad - your music, photos, and video - can now stream wirelessly to your HDTV and speakers via AirPlay-enabled speakers or Apple TV on a WiFi network.⁶ With just a tap on the AirPlay icon, blast some tunes, have a movie night, show off some photos, or watch YouTube. And go big.

Video Mirroring

Video mirroring is new for iPad and for every app, web page, presentation, video, movie, or photo you want to show a big audience. Just plug in the Apple Digital AV Adapter or Apple VGA Adapter (sold separately) and your HDTV or projector becomes a bigger version of your iPad. One plug, that's it. Everyone sees what's on your display - even when you rotate iPad from portrait to landscape or zoom in and out on photos.

AirPrint - Print Everything Wirelessly

Print your email, photos, web pages, and documents right from your iPad over WiFi.⁷ There's no software to download, no drivers to install, and no cables to connect. With just a few taps, you can go from viewing something on the iPad screen to holding a printed copy.

• iPad 2 arrives March 11. Starting at $499
• Buy online starting March 11 and get free shipping
• Buy in store starting at 5:00 p.m. on March 11.

iPad 2 with WiFi will be available on March 11 for a suggested retail price of $499 for the 16 GB model, $599 for the 32 GB model, $699 for the 64 GB model. iPad 2 WiFi + 3G will be available for a suggested retail price of $629 for the 16 GB model, $729 for the 32 GB model and $829 for the 64 GB model. iPad 2 WiFi + 3G compatible with the Verizon network will be available in the US only for a suggested retail price of $629 for the 16 GB model, $729 for the 32 GB model and $829 for the 64 GB model. iPad 2 will be sold in the US through the Apple Store, Apple's retail stores and select Apple Authorized Resellers. iMovie and GarageBand for iPad apps are available for $4.99 each from the App Store on iPad (iMovie download link, GarageBand download link)

iPad 2 will be available in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK on March 25; and in many more countries around the world in the coming months. Further international availability and pricing will be announced at a later date.

Technical Specifications

Size and Weight

• WiFi
  • Height: 9.50" (241.2 mm)
  • Width: 7.31" (185.7 mm)
  • Depth: 0.34" (8.8 mm)
  • Weight: 1.33 lb. (601 g)
• 3G
  • Height: 9.50" (241.2 mm)
  • Width: 7.31" (185.7 mm)
  • Depth: 0.34" (8.8 mm)
  • Weight: 1.35 lb. (613 g, AT&T)
  • Weight: 1.34 lb. (607 g, Verizon)

Storage

• 16 GB
• 32 GB
• 64 GB

Wireless and Cellular

• WiFi
  • WiFi (802.11a/b/g/n)
  • Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR technology
• 3G
  • WiFi + 3G model: UMTS/HSDPA/HSUPA (850, 900, 1900, 2100 MHz); GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)
  • WiFi + 3G for Verizon model: CDMA EV-DO Rev. A (800, 1900 MHz)
  • Data only³
  • WiFi (802.11a/b/g/n)
  • Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR technology

Carriers

• AT&T
• Verizon

Display

• 9.7" (diagonal) LED-backlit glossy widescreen Multi-Touch display with IPS technology
• 1024-by-768-pixel resolution at 132 pixels per inch (ppi)
• Fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating
• Support for display of multiple languages and characters simultaneously

CPU

• 1 GHz dual-core Apple A5 custom-designed, high-performance, low-power system-on-a-chip

Cameras, Photos, and Video Recording

• Back camera: Video recording, HD (720p) up to 30 frames per second with audio; still camera with 5x digital zoom
• Front camera: Video recording, VGA up to 30 frames per second with audio; VGA-quality still camera
• Tap to control exposure for video or stills
• Photo and video geotagging over WiFi

Power and Battery

• WiFi
  • Built-in 25-watt-hour rechargeable lithium-polymer battery
  • Up to 10 hours of surfing the web on WiFi, watching video, or listening to music
  • Charging via power adapter or USB to computer system
• 3G
  • Built-in 25-watt-hour rechargeable lithium-polymer battery
  • Up to 10 hours of surfing the web on WiFi, watching video, or listening to music
  • Up to 9 hours of surfing the web using 3G data network
  • Charging via power adapter or USB to computer system

Input/Output

• 30-pin dock connector port
• 3.5-mm stereo headphone minijack
• Built-in speaker
• Microphone
• 30-pin dock connector port
• 3.5-mm stereo headphone minijack
• Built-in speaker
• Micro-SIM card tray (WiFi + 3G model)
• Microphone

Sensors

• Three-axis gyro
• Accelerometer
• Ambient light sensor

Location

• WiFi
  • WiFi
  • Digital compass
• 3G
  • WiFi
  • Digital compass
  • Assisted GPS
  • Cellular

Audio Playback

• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
• Audio formats supported: HE-AAC (V1 and V2), AAC (8 to 320 Kbps), Protected AAC (from iTunes Store), MP3 (8 to 320 Kbps), MP3 VBR, Audible (formats 2, 3, and 4, Audible Enhanced Audio, AAX, and AAX+), Apple Lossless, AIFF, and WAV
• User-configurable maximum volume limit
• Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound pass-through with Apple Digital AV Adapter (sold separately)

TV and Video

• Video mirroring and video out support: Up to 1080p with Apple Digital AV Adapter or Apple VGA Adapter (cables sold separately)
• Video out support at 576p and 480p with Apple Component AV Cable; 576i and 480i with Apple Composite AV Cable
• Video formats supported: H.264 video up to 720p, 30 frames per second, Main Profile level 3.1 with AAC-LC audio up to 160 Kbps, 48 kHz, stereo audio in .m4v, .mp4, and .mov file formats; MPEG-4 video, up to 2.5 Mbps, 640 by 480 pixels, 30 frames per second, Simple Profile with AAC-LC audio up to 160 Kbps per channel, 48 kHz, stereo audio in .m4v, .mp4, and .mov file formats; Motion JPEG (M-JPEG) up to 35 Mbps, 1280 by 720 pixels, 30 frames per second, audio in ulaw, PCM stereo audio in .avi file format

Mail Attachment Support

Viewable document types: .jpg, .tiff, .gif (images); .doc and .docx (Microsoft Word); .htm and .html (web pages); .key (Keynote); .numbers (Numbers); .pages (Pages); .pdf (Preview and Adobe Acrobat); .ppt and .pptx (Microsoft PowerPoint); .txt (text); .rtf (rich text format); .vcf (contact information); .xls and .xlsx (Microsoft Excel)

Languages

• Language support for English (U.S.), English (UK), French (France), German, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil), Portuguese (Portugal), Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Norwegian, Korean, Japanese, Russian, Polish, Turkish, Ukrainian, Hungarian, Arabic, Thai, Czech, Greek, Hebrew, Indonesian, Malay, Romanian, Slovak, Croatian, Catalan, and Vietnamese
• Keyboard support for English (U.S.), English (UK), French (France), French (Canadian), French (Switzerland), German, Traditional Chinese (Handwriting, Pinyin, Zhuyin, Cangjie, Wubihua), Simplified Chinese (Handwriting, Pinyin, Wubihua), Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil), Portuguese (Portugal), Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Norwegian, Korean, Japanese (Romaji, Ten Key), Japanese (Kana), Russian, Polish, Turkish, Ukrainian, Estonian, Hungarian, Icelandic, Lithuanian, Latvian, Flemish, Arabic, Thai, Czech, Greek, Hebrew, Indonesian, Malay, Romanian, Slovak, Croatian, Bulgarian, Serbian (Cyrillic/Latin), Catalan, Vietnamese, Tibetan, Macedonian, and Cherokee
• Dictionary support (enables predictive text and autocorrect) for English (U.S.), English (UK), French, German, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil), Portuguese (Portugal), Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Norwegian, Korean, Japanese (Romaji), Japanese (Kana), Russian, Polish, Turkish, Ukrainian, Hungarian, Lithuanian, Flemish, Arabic, Thai, Czech, Greek, Hebrew, Indonesian, Malaysian, Romanian, Slovak, Croatian, Catalan, Vietnamese, and Cherokee

Accessibility

• Support for playback of closed-captioned content
• VoiceOver screen reader
• Fullscreen zoom magnification
• White on black display
• Mono audio

Environmental Requirements

• Operating temperature: 32° to 95° F (0° to 35° C)
• Nonoperating temperature: -4° to 113° F (-20° to 45° C)
• Relative humidity: 5% to 95% noncondensing
• Maximum operating altitude: 10,000 feet (3000 m)

Mac System Requirements

• Mac computer with USB 2.0 port
• Mac OS X v10.5.8 or later
• iTunes 10.2 or later recommended (free download from www.itunes.com/download)
• iTunes Store account
• Internet access

Windows System Requirements

• PC with USB 2.0 port
• Windows 7; Windows Vista; or Windows XP Home or Professional with Service Pack 3 or later
• iTunes 10.2 or later recommended (free download from www.itunes.com/download)
• iTunes Store account
• Internet access

Environmental Status Report

iPad embodies Apple's continuing environmental progress. It is designed with the following features to reduce environmental impact:

• Arsenic-free display glass
• BFR-free
• Mercury-free LED-backlit display
• PVC-free
• Recyclable aluminum and glass enclosure

Colors

• Black
• White

iPad Smart Cover

The perfect-fit cover that wakes up, stands up, and brightens up iPad 2.

Prices

iPad with WiFi - Connects to the Internet via WiFi

• 16 GB - $499
• 32 GB - $599
• 64 GB - $699

iPad with WiFi + 3G Connects to the Internet via WiFi and over 3G cellular networks with AT&T or Verizon Wireless. (3G service sold separately.) Learn more Select the model that corresponds with the carrier you'd like to use for 3G service. The iPad you choose is configured to work only with one carrier.

• 16 GB - $629
• 32 GB - $729
• 64 GB - $829

1. Compared with previous iPad. Battery life varies by use and configuration. See www.apple.com/batteries for more information.
2. Actual size and weight vary by configuration and manufacturing process.
3. Requires a FaceTime-enabled Mac with an Internet connection or a FaceTime-enabled iOS device with a WiFi connection. Not available in all areas.
4. iPad Smart Cover is sold separately.
5. 3G data plan is sold separately.
6. AirPlay is compatible only with the second-generation Apple TV.
7. Requires an AirPrint-enabled printer. See www.apple.com/ipad/features/airprint.html for a list of compatible printers.
8. Battery life depends on device settings, usage and other factors. Actual results vary.
9. AirPlay video requires second generation Apple TV running the latest software.
10. Personal Hotspot requires supporting data plan. Customers should check with their carrier for availability.

Link: iPad 2

Apple Posts iPad 2 Guided Tours

Apple has posted a gaggle of video guided tours to the iPad 2, including GarageBand, iMovie, and iBooks applications.

The videos range from about two minutes to six minutes, depending on the content, and showcase how the new iPad 2 and attendant applications work.

Link: iPad 2 Guided Tours

We're All Living in Apple's 'Post-PC' World

Engadget's Joshua Topolsky notes that as of Steve Jobs' surprise keynote at the iPad 2 announcement on Wednesday, Apple has stepped into the "post-PC" era of computing, and there's no looking back, at least not for the folks in Cupertino.

Topolsky contends that Apple has changed the rules of the game and made the competition's efforts not just an uphill battle, but - at least in the eyes of Steve Jobs and company - essentially moot, a different conversation, if you will. But what exactly is the "post-PC" world? And why is it significant? He endeavors to explain....

Link: It's Apple's 'Post-PC' World - We're All Just Living In It

Warming Up to the Post-PC Era

Writing for MacPrices.net Charles W. Moore says:

"I think the iPad 2 will probably reel me in at long last. It's not a revolutionary advance over iPad one, but there's a lot of extra value at the same price point, and more importantly, the iPad is now firmly established as an integral, and no doubt increasingly indispensable element of our digital future, for better or worse - probably some of both, as is common with paradigm - shifting technologies.

"I surprised myself last week by getting, and even agreeing with Steve Jobs' repeated references to the "post-PC era" in his surprise keynote appearance at the iPad 2 announcement. This represents a sea-change in my perception from a year ago when Jobs rolled out iPad 1, being among the sizable cohort wondering if anyone would actually buy this thing. Fifteen million answers to that later...."

Link: Warming Up Finally to the Post-PC Era

How to Resist Your iPad 2 Craving

Cnet's David Carnoy notes that the iPad 2 didn't look any different from what we expected it to look like - and it didn't look all that different from the original iPad. But suddenly there on stage in the flesh it had taken on a new, irresistible sheen. Not the Charlie kind of Sheen. Just the Apple kind....

However he counsels that while the iPad 2 is nice, a lot of Apple lovers have their eyes on the MacBook Air.... and while some people can afford an iPad 2 and a next-generation Air, many can't, so given the choice, if you have an original iPad, it might make more rational sense to take the cash you'd spend on an iPad 2 and apply it toward purchasing a next-generation Air, which after all, is a full-fledged machine that supports Flash, but notes that you should wait now until Apple upgrades the Air to Sandy Bridge Core "i" processors.

Carnoy adds that he always argues that when it comes to Apple's mobile products, it's good idea to skip a generation . . . "You know the next 9.7-inch iPad, which will most likely be released in March 2012, will be thinner, lighter, have a faster process, and a better screen. And you only have to wait 365 days to get it."

Link: How to Resist Your iPad 2 Craving

iPad 2 the Best Tablet Yet, but Cameras Disappoint

AppleInsider's Josh Ong says:

"The first reviews of the iPad 2 have emerged, declaring Apple's new touchscreen tablet as even farther ahead of its competitors than the original iPad, though some reviewers were disappointed with the image quality of the device's new front- and rear-facing cameras....

"Reviewers were impressed with the changes Apple made to the iPad, though minor complaints ranged from poor image quality on the cameras to the lack of Adobe Flash and 4G connectivity.

"Wall Street analysts have reported being impressed by Apple's new iPad, with one analyst warning that the success of the iPad 2 could burst a bubble for its rivals in the tablet market."

Link: Review Roundup: Apple's iPad 2 Is Best Tablet Yet, but Cameras Disappoint

Why Nearly Everybody Will Want an iPad 2

ZDNet's David Morgenstern says:

"Steve Jobs takes the stage in San Francisco and announces the second generation of iPad. But many analysts were ho-hum, saying that Apple's incremental change isn't compelling enough for anyone other than fanboys. Wrong. Nearly everybody will want one. Everybody....

"Here's the real message: Apple is the company in the lead of the tablet market and everyone else is playing catchup."

Link: Why Nearly Everybody Will Want an iPad 2

Will the Cloud Curb Interest in 64 GB iPad 2?

Computerworld's Lucas Mearian notes that with consumers using cloud service providers more often for their data storage, analysts are raising the prospect that iPad 2 buyers will look to save money by getting versions that have less on-device storage, and that a trend toward purchasing mobile devices with lower-capacity SSDs, or NAND flash memory on a board, is confirmed by manufacturers, with many major vendors having introduced lower capacity "value" SSDs retailing for about $100, compared to 128 GB or 256 GB versions that cost five times that amount.

Merian points out that iPad 2 pricing starts at $499 for the 16 GB WiFi model, but if you want to quadruple that capacity with a 64 GB SSD, you'll pay $699.

Thanks to the cloud, he reports that some experts are recommending buying the lower capacity model and saving some money, and that even for enterprise use it may be unnecessary to have more than 16 GB of on-board data storage capacity.

Link: Will the Cloud Curb Interest in 64 GB iPad 2?

Apple Builds on A4 Microprocessor Success with A5

In a DigiTimes press release Jessie Shen reports:

"Driven by the soaring sales of products including the iPad and the iPhone 4, Apple's shipments of products based on its A4 microprocessor reached nearly 50 million units in 2010 from virtually zero sales in 2009, according to market research firm IHS iSuppli.

"In an indication of how successful the microprocessor has been, Apple in 2010 shipped nearly four times as many units of A4-based products as it did of x86-based PCs, the research firm said.

"Building on the success of its A4 microprocessor, Apple on March 2 announced its second-generation iPad line will be based on a new microprocessor, the A5 , which the company said doubles the performance of the A4. Apple indicated that the A5 will include dual microprocessor cores, as opposed to a single core for the A4. Along with the rise in computing power, the A5 will offer nine times faster graphics performance than the A4.

"The low-cost, highly-integrated A4 and A5 designs represent an important element in Apple's philosophy of offering products, which are focused on delivering a compelling user interface (UI) and a highly optimized computing platform for Apple's iOS operating system.

"'In the new design paradigm of smartphones and tablets, computing efficiency trumps raw computing power,' said Wayne Lam, senior analyst, competitive analysis, at IHS. 'Designs like the iPad demand highly integrated microprocessors that emphasize graphics performance, lower power consumption and small space usage.'

"Apple so far has introduced five products based on the A4: the first-generation iPad, the AT&T version of the iPhone 4, the Apple TV, the iPod touch and the CDMA iPhone 4 carried by Verizon Wireless. The A4 combines an A4 microprocessor core and a GPU. The device was custom designed by P.A. Semi, a company acquired by Apple in 2008, and is manufactured by Samsung, according to the research firm.

"A4 influence

"Partly because of the popularity of Apple's iPad, companies around the world are developing media tablets and other products that feature small and innovative form factors, noted Matthew Wilkins, principal analyst, compute platforms, for iSuppli. 'These products require highly integrated semiconductor solutions that consume less power and space, similar to the A4 microprocessor.'

"In the PC market, this trend is driving rising sales of notebook processors that integrate graphics processing capabilities, eliminating the need for separate GPUs. In tablets and smartphones, companies are offering alternatives to the A4 that offer similar levels of integration. For instance, Intel and Nvidia have announced plans for tablet-oriented processors with similar characteristics to the A4.

"In the case of Nvidia, the company is offering the Tegra 2 solution used in Motorola's Xoom tablet, which upped the ante on the A4 with the inclusion of two cores. Now with the A5, however, Apple has matched the dual-core capability of the Tegra 2."

Link: Apple Builds on A4 Microprocessor Success with A5 Announcement, Says IHS iSuppli (subscription required)

Apple's iPad 2 Provokes IT Anxiety

Computerworld's Matt Hamblen says:

"As exciting as the new iPad 2 is bound to be for both consumers and business users, some IT executives who will have to support the second-generation Apple tablet are already cringing.

"Hamblen cites TD Bank Financial Group vice president of employee technology Dave Codack calling the iPad in enterprise phenomenon 'the tyranny of consumerization,' because 'the enterprise is not dictating technology with these devices; the revolt is coming from the end-user community,' and J.Gold Associates' analyst Jack Gold saying that 'there's excitement for what iPad 2 brings to business users; disappointment for how hard Apple makes it for enterprise IT to deploy and manage.'"

Publisher's note: Those of us involved in the first decade of personal computing remember the same kind of complaints from MIS departments when employees wanted to use their Apple IIs, Osbornes, IBM PCs, and Macs instead of depending on the company minicomputer. IT departments are conservative by nature, have a strong tendency to platform uniformity, and have been one of the major reasons Macs were rarely used in the workplace outside of graphics departments. As far as users of alternative platforms (Mac, Palm, iPhone, iPad, etc.), it is the ID department that's tyrannical. dk

Link: Apple's iPad 2 Provokes IT Anxiety

Apple iPad 2 vs. Motorola Xoom

T3's Hannah Bouckley looks at how the Motorola Xoom stacks up against the Apple iPad 2, noting that at 601g the thin iPad is easy to hold with one hand, while weighing in at 730g, the Xoom is about 100g heavier than the iPad 2 and at 12.9mm looks positively chunky next to it, and definitely needing two hands, and nothing that she likes the Xoom a lot, but it just doesn't really have enough to make it stand out from other tablets, so at the moment the iPad is the winner.

Link: Apple iPad 2 vs. Motorola Xoom

Gartner Lowers PC Sales Forecast as Tablets Redefine the PC's Place

PR: As Steve Jobs declared in his iPad 2 keynote on Wednesday, we're in the post-PC era whether we like it or not.

Gartner, Inc. is lowering its PC unit forecast for 2011 and 2012, based on expectations of weaker demand for mobile consumer PCs. Worldwide PC shipments are forecast to reach 387.8 million units in 2011, a 10.5 percent increase from 2010, according to Gartner's preliminary forecast. This is down from Gartner's previous projection of 15.9% growth this year.

Gartner expects worldwide PC shipments to total 440.6 million units in 2012, a 13.6% increase from 2011. This is down from Gartner's previous outlook of 14.8% growth for 2012.

"These results reflect marked reductions in expected near-term unit growth based on expectations of weaker consumer mobile PC demand, in no small part because of the near-term weakness expected in China's mobile PC market, but also because of a general loss in consumer enthusiasm for mobile PCs," said Ranjit Atwal, research director at Gartner.

Gartner analysts said that consumer mobile PCs have been the dynamic growth engine of the PC market over the past five years, averaging annual rates of growth approaching 40%. For much of this period, mobile PCs remained consumers' platform of choice for bringing the Internet into their daily lives. However, due to the spread of low-cost embedded WiFi modules, Internet access is now available through a multitude of mobile devices that allow consumers to engage in virtually all their favorite online activities without the need of a mobile PC.

"We expect growing consumer enthusiasm for mobile PC alternatives, such as the iPad and other media tablets, to dramatically slow home mobile PC sales, especially in mature markets," said George Shiffler, research director at Gartner. "We once thought that mobile PC growth would continue to be sustained by consumers buying second and third mobile PCs as personal devices. However, we now believe that consumers are not only likely to forgo additional mobile PC buys but are also likely to extend the lifetimes of the mobile PCs they retain as they adopt media tablets and other mobile PC alternatives as their primary mobile device. Overall, we now expect home mobile PCs to average less than 10% annual growth in mature markets from 2011 through 2015."

The professional market is expected to continue to exhibit double-digit growth in 2011 and 2012, as aging PCs are replaced across all regions of the world. "However, even in the professional market, media tablets are being considered as PC substitutes, likely at least delaying some PC replacements," said Raphael Vasquez, senior research analyst at Gartner.

The dramatic rise in the popularity of alternative devices and the limitations of the PC are two of many dynamics that played a significant role in Gartner's revised outlook for the PC industry.

Media Tablets Causing Hesitation Among Potential PC Buyers

Consumer enthusiasm for media tablets is a key factor in Gartner's forecast that the consumer mobile PC market will remain weak in mature markets. Consumer substitution of media tablets for mobile PCs already appears to be impacting mobile PC shipments in mature markets. However, a bigger issue seems to be that consumers are taking a "wait and see" attitude toward PCs as they anticipate the arrival of new media tablets during the rest of 2011.

PCs' Limitations Are Exposed

Not too long ago, PCs were a "fashion accessory" in mature markets with vendors linking themselves to fashion designers and even creating PCs specifically for women. The current "cool" device is the smartphone, and now PCs will soon have to do battle with media tablets when they are launched in large numbers in the second quarter of 2011. Up to now, the appeal of mobile PCs has been their portability. But mainstream mobile PCs have not shed sufficient weight, and do not offer the all-day battery life, to substantiate their promise of real mobility. These limitations have become all the more apparent with the rapid spread of social networking, which thrives on constant and immediate connections. In short, all-day untethered computing has yet to materialize, and that has exposed the "mobile" PC as merely a transportable PC at best.

More information is available in the report.

Link: Forecast Alert: PC Forecast Is Lowered as Consumers Diversify Computing Needs Across Devices

Apps & Services

Video Tutorial on Pages for iPad

PR: Noteboom Productions announces that their latest Video Tutorial, Tutor for Pages for iPad, is now available on the Mac App store. In Tutor for Pages for iPad the user watches videos on their Macintosh to learn how to use Pages on the iPad. They can choose different video chapters to watch as they go through the video tutorial.

The videos cover everything from the document setup to header and footers to masking images to adding tables and charts. All the videos are included in the app so the user can follow along on their iPad. No Internet connection is needed once the app is downloaded.

Find out how to:

• Import documents
• Add page numbers
• Set header and footers
• Use the virtual keyboard
• Replace text
• Add your own images and style them
• Export as a PDF or Word document
• Add arrows and shapes and style them
• Zoom in on a photos and mask it
• Add charts and style the chart
• Add tables and style the tables
• Manage your documents
• And more

Videos included:

• Introduction
• Interface
• Virtual Keyboard
• Document Setup
• Headers and Footers
• Selecting Text
• Copy and Paste
• Dictionary
• Styling Text
• Tabs and Paragraphs
• Shapes and Images
• Styling Images
• Masking Images
• Tables
• Charts
• Saving and Sharing
• Conclusion

System Requirements:

• Snow Leopard 10.6.6 or above
• 95.3 MB

Tutor for Pages for iPad 1.0 is $4.99 (or equivalent amount in other currencies) and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Productivity category.

Link: Tutor for Pages for iPad (iPad download link, Mac download link)

Create Custom Greeting Cards with CardsFactory HD for iPad

PR: Risantex Ltd., an new mobile application development studio, has announced the recent update of CardsFactory HD. Designed specifically for use on the iPad this imaginative greeting card creator allows users to easily design and send personalized virtual cards to their friends, family, and loved ones for nearly any occasion. Version 1.1 of this useful mobile tool includes added options of picking text colors and being able to position and scale personal photos stored on users' mobile devices to ensure they fit perfectly into the cards users create. As easy to use as it is practical, this app has the power to turn any iPad owner into a greeting card designer in no time! CardsFactory HD version 1.1 is currently available for download on the Apple App Store for 99¢.

Whether the occasion is a family member's Birthday, Valentine's, Christmas, or any other memorable event that calls for a greeting card, CardsFactory HD has you covered. The application has nine completely unique predesigned card templates which cover almost every major holiday or personal celebration. The app itself utilizes an incredibly intuitive user interface which provides a perfect balance between guiding users through the card creation process and giving them the freedom to add in completely personal touches as well. CardsFactory HD's linear greeting card editor walks users through picking an occasion-appropriate template, to writing their own message and creating their cards' title. Users are free to pick various images or stored photos to scale and integrate into their design and are helped along until they are ready to print, save, or send out their greeting card.

Carder creators have the option of either saving their finished cards directly onto their iPad for use later, or immediately sending them out to their intended recipients via e-mail or Facebook. There are a number of card designing applications currently available on the App Store, but none of them benefit from the sheer usability and simple yet free nature of CardsFactory HD. This application makes creating a completely unique personalized greeting card for almost any event as easy as going to the store and picking one out. Never let another memorable moment slip by without letting your friends, loved ones, or family know that you're thinking about them with the power of CardsFactory HD!

Link: CardsFactory HD for iPad (download link)

Accessories

Belkin Unveils a Range of Innovative Accessories for iPad 2

PR: Belkin announces innovative solutions for iPad 2 with the introduction of the FlipBlade Adjust, the ViewLounge, and a new line of Folio Stands that allow more flexibility as to how, where, and when you access your tablet for browsing the Web, enjoying photos, reading e-books, and much more.

FlipBlade Adjust

The razor-thin FlipBlade Adjust is a compact, portable stand that flips open and adjusts to four angles, allowing you to easily switch to a more ergonomic position for FaceTime video calling or writing emails with an easy, tilt-back motion. The FlipBlade Adjust also is designed with an opening to easily run cables through the base for charging.

FlipBlade Adjust (F5L084tt)

• Lightweight, compact portable solution
• Four adjustable angles for viewing and typing
• Opening for routing cables through the base
• For use in landscape or portrait view

ViewLounge

Experience the first stand for iPad 2 that provides stability and unparalleled support on soft or uneven surfaces, allowing you to comfortably use your tablet while relaxing in bed or on the couch. Incorporating a unique beanbag base that conforms to any surface and a slip-resistant texture to secure iPad 2, ViewLounge provides a multifunctional stand that fits into your daily lifestyle of watching movies and surfing the Web while at home.

ViewLounge (F5L089tt)

• Beanbag base accommodates various surfaces for a stable hold
• Adjustable viewing and typing angles
• Textured bottom surface prevents sliding off furniture
• For use in landscape or portrait view

Folio Stands

Belkin also introduces a stylish and protective new line of Folio Stands that feature the ability to easily convert for viewing or typing. Folio Stands protect your iPad 2 and provide simple, easy-to-use designs that prop upright and allow you to read books or play games anywhere, anytime.

FlipBlade Adjust, ViewLounge, and the new line of Folio Stands will be available Spring 2011 in all global regions.

Flip Folio Stand (F8N612eb)

• Perforated design offers stylish protection
• Versatile options for multiple viewing angles
• Secure case closure keeps iPad 2 in place

Access Folio Stand (F8N610eb)

• Easy-access pocket for accessories
• Media-viewing angle
• Typing angle

Slim Folio Stand (F8N605eb)

• Ultra-thin profile offers protection without any bulk
• Versatile options for multiple viewing angles
• Typing angle

Verve Folio Stand (F8N613eb)

• Leather design offers elegant protection
• Versatile options for multiple viewing angles
• Secure closure keeps iPad 2 in place

Link: Belkin

M-Edge Announces Accessories for iPad 2

PR: M-Edge Accessories have announced their upcoming line of accessories designed for the newly unveiled iPad 2. The accessories, available in Spring 2011, will provide customers a variety of innovative and portable solutions for protecting their new tablets.

"The growing tablet market continues to give us new ways to expand our horizons," says Patrick Mish, CEO of M-Edge Accessories. "The release of the iPad 2 is a perfect opportunity for us to debut our new and innovative solutions for tablet users, as well redesign and update customer favorites. The cameras on the front and back, the gyroscope, and the video output create interesting challenges for accessory manufacturers, but also opportunities for a whole new class of accessories. We intend to lead the market in the effort to develop and explore these new, creative add-ons."

The iPad 2 accessories will include fan favorites from M-Edges Professional line, made of durable microfiber leather and available in a variety of vibrant colors. Among the Professional line offerings are the popular Executive Jacket, sporting a new design and updated stand functionality; and the Method Portfolio, a favorite of business professionals, with additional storage space and versatility.

For the more intrepid iPad 2 users, M-Edges Sport line provides peace of mind and the ultimate in rugged protection. The Latitude Jacket will be back with a new look, but the same zip-around protection to guard your iPad from dust and drops. For fully-optimized use of the iPad 2, the Latitude Jacket with integrated TheaterStand by ZeroChroma lets you choose from 16 viewing angles in either portrait or landscape orientation.

Swimmers and boaters can rest easy, because the splashproof and sandproof Leisure Jacket will also be back for iPad 2 with an updated design. When taking your device along for a bumpy ride, the Touring Sleeves impact-resistant neoprene will cushion the iPad 2 from the force of any fall. (Bonus: its available now.)

For those with sophisticated taste, the Cambridge Jacket, made of genuine leather and canvas, lends a refined air to the iPad. The Classic Jacket gives the iPad the feel of a first-edition hardcover book, with an exterior crafted of cotton book-binding fabric and a genuine leather ridged spine.

Look for the iPad 2 in the lineup of fully customizable accessories available through MyEdge, M-Edges new design-your-own cover website launching in March. iPad fans will be able to personalize their own jackets with photos, artwork, text or patterns. They can also explore the Style Library and choose from designs by well-known artists, including iconic book cover artwork from Out Of Print or classic covers from The New Yorker.

These products, among many others, will be available for purchase beginning in Spring 2011 at medgestore.com.

Customers can visit the website to sign for email notification of updated launch information, or follow M-Edge on Facebook and Twitter.

Link: M-Edge Accessories

Protection

Marware CEO Hybrid Case for iPad 2

PR: Marware has announced that the CEO Hybrid case for the iPad 2 is now available for preorder. The Marware CEO Hybrid iPad 2 case, sequel to the original best-selling iPad case, is the perfect fusion of the traditional hard shell case and soft fabric folio case. The protective lid doubles as a stand and adjusts into multiple angles for displaying, viewing, typing or using FaceTime.

An integrated hand strap makes holding and using the iPad a breeze. The reinforced grip corners offer maximum hold, a secure closure and added corner protection. The CEO Hybrid allows access to all iPad 2 buttons and ports and has a convenient camera hole cutout on the back. For the Apple iPad 2 user seeking the sleek design of a shell case and the added protection of a soft fabric folio case, Marware offers the best of both worlds, the CEO Hybrid iPad 2. The CEO Hybrid also comes with Marware's Lifetime Warranty.

Features:

• Ultra-low profile traditional hard shell and padded folio hybrid design
• Innovative elastic interior hand strap for improved, comfortable hold- great for FaceTime
• Injection molded interior for added support and protection
• Soft, scratch-resistant interior
• Protective lid that adjusts into multiple angles for displaying, viewing, typing or FaceTime
• Reinforced grip corners for maximum hold, corner protection and secure closure
• Camera hole cutout on the back
• Access to all buttons and ports so you can charge and sync without removing case

The CEO Hybrid for iPad 2 is available in black and retails for $49.99. For more information about the CEO Hybrid and updated shipping dates, please visit Marware online. Marware is a leading provider of software and eco-conscious accessory solutions for Apple iPhones, iPads, iPods, and Notebooks.

Link: Marware CEO Hybrid Case for iPad 2

Marware Eco-Vue for iPad 2 Case

PR: Marware announces that the Eco-Vue case for the iPad 2 is available for preorder. The Marware Eco-Vue iPad 2 case is a versatile, eco-leather folio-style case for the fashionable, environmentally sensible tablet user. With sophisticated style, the Eco-Vue's durable eco-leather covers your iPad 2 to provide elegant scratch and impact resistant protection.

The protective folio cover folds back and doubles as a display stand while the innovative hand strap makes it easier to hold and use the iPad 2. The Eco-Vue doesn't obstruct camera and is made from RoHS compliant leather. When it comes to safeguarding the future of your Apple iPad 2, protect your investment and the environment with the Eco-Vue iPad 2 case by Marware. The Eco-Vue also comes with Marware's Lifetime Warranty.

Features:

• Folio-style, eco-leather iPad 2 case made from RoHS compliant leather (Restriction of Hazardous Substances)
• Innovative hand strap makes it easier to hold and use the iPad 2
• Protective folio cover that folds back and doubles as an iPad 2 display/viewing stand
• Low-angle, foldaway table top stand for typing or display
• Elastic closure strap keeps the case closed and protects the camera
• Fold over safety tab that locks the iPad 2 in place
• Camera hole cutout on the back
• Soft micro suede interior for enhanced feel and scratch resistance
• Access to all buttons and ports so you can charge and sync without removing case

The Eco-Vue for iPad 2 is available in black eco-leather and retails for $54.99. For more information about the Eco-Vue and updated shipping dates, please visit Marware online. Marware is the leading wave of the mobile community and provides solutions for mobile devices such as Kindles, iPhones, iPads, iPods, and Notebooks.

Link: Marware Eco-Vue iPad 2 Case

BoxWave Manhattan Elite iPad Travel Case

PR: Traveling somewhere? Maybe to Manhattan with your Apple iPad? The sophisticated and trendy Manhattan Elite Travel Case is constructed out of genuine aged leather, padded, and the perfect companion for your Apple iPad. The case securely secures your Apple iPad with a rotatable and removable swivel panel with elastic straps.

Feel like watching a movie? With the Manhattan Elite Travel Case, you can prop up your Apple iPad to three viewing angles without removing it. With integrated handles, you can comfortably carry your Apple iPad, and because the case is double locked with removable button straps, you can be at ease knowing your Apple iPad is secured.

Also available in "Ardent Red".

Manhattan Elite Travel Case Features:

• Formfitting and padded case designed to perfectly fit your Apple iPad
• Lightweight, durable design protects from scratches and bumps without adding bulk
• Conveniently designed to provide quick access to all of the Apple iPad's controls, features, and ports
• Open design for the screen so that you can keep the same tactile feel as if using the Apple iPad without a case
• Prop up the Apple iPad while in the case at three viewing angles
• Uses elastic corner straps to hold your Apple iPad securely into the swivel panel
• Swivel panel is removable and rotatable
• Integrated handles for carrying comfort
• Hand crafted from genuine leather
• Double button locks hold your Apple iPad in place, and are also removable
• Available in: Sienna Brown, Nero Black, and Everest Gray Color

Regular Price: $89.95

Web Special: $34.95 (61% saving)

Free shipping within US. Worldwide Shipping Available

Link: BoxWave Manhattan Elite iPad Travel Case

BoxWave True Bamboo iPad Case

PR: Natural and elegant. BoxWave's True Bamboo iPad Case provides your iPad with sturdy protection from real bamboo in this refined slim hard case. Each eco-friendly bamboo case is unique in appearance and offers a modern look for storing your Apple iPad everyday.

The Apple iPad True Bamboo iPad Case is designed with two interlocking pieces for easy installation, and a complete open front for optimal access to the touch screen as well as maintaining the same tactile feel as using the Apple iPad without a case.

True Bamboo iPad Case Features:

• Formfitting hard case designed to perfectly fit your Apple iPad
• Durable and protects your Apple iPad from scratches and bumps
• Cutout design for the touch screen so that you can keep the same tactile feel as using the Apple iPad without a case
• Conveniently designed to provide quick access to all of Apple iPad's charging port and control buttons
• Designed with two interlocking pieces for easy installation
• Made of beautiful and eco-friendly bamboo

Regular Price: $129.95

Web Special: $27.95

Free shipping within US. Worldwide Shipping Available

Link: BoxWave True Bamboo iPad Case

BoxWave True Wood iPad Case

PR: BoxWave's True Wood iPad Case provides you with the protection you need in a sturdy, natural and unique case. Made of 100% real wood, each case has its own character and appearance. You can be rest assured that there is no other case identical to yours.

The slim hard case is composed of two interlocking pieces for easy installation on your Apple iPad. And the interior is lined with a smooth cloth to prevent scuffs and scratches on your Apple iPad. The True Wood iPad Case also features a complete open screen design to offer optimal access to the touch screen while maintaining the same tactile feel as using the device without a case.

True Wood iPad Case Features:

• Formfitting hard case designed to perfectly fit your Apple iPad
• Durable and protects your Apple iPad from scratches and bumps
• Cutout design for the touchscreen so that you can keep the same tactile feel as using the Apple iPad without a case
• Conveniently designed to provide quick access to the Apple iPad's charging port, audio jack, volume controls, and on/off key
• Designed with two interlocking pieces for easy installation
• Back of the case is lined with a soft velvet cloth to protect the back of your Apple iPad
• Crafted from sturdy, beautiful wood
• Available in a warm Cherry finish

Regular Price: $129.95

Web Special: $27.95 (78% saving)

Free shipping within US. Worldwide Shipping Available

Link: BoxWave True Wood iPad Case

BoxWave Manila iPad Leather Envelope

PR: BoxWave's Manila Leather Envelope case is a unique looking one that's guaranteed to turn heads. But its not all about the looks. The Manila Leather Envelope is a legitimate case that's constructed out of leather to withstand the harsh environments.

It's also padded and lined with a soft interior so as to keep your Apple iPad from getting scuffed up! Your Apple iPad is securely held in place with an authentic mailer locking flap. While they don't recommend it, you could use this to mail your Apple iPad.

Manila Leather Envelope Features:

• Genuine leather
• Slim and formfitting designed to perfectly fit your Apple iPad
• Lightweight, and durable design protects from scratches and bumps without adding bulk
• Secure and authentic mailer flap lock
• Inside is padded and lined with soft fabric

Regular Price: $59.95

Web Special: $38.95

Free shipping within US. Worldwide Shipping Available

Link: BoxWave Manila iPad Leather Envelope