The iPad 2 has been announced today, and while we’re not there to play with an actual unit, we’ve culled the interwebs compiling what new version features will be useful for photographers.
Cameras:
While we can’t find specific specs on the cameras, the iPad 2 comes with front and rear cameras. The rear camera will shoot 720 HD, and the front will shoot VGA resolution, so we’re confident the camera sensors will be great. This will allow for video chatting with the pre-installed “Facetime” app. More importantly to us is the ability to capture locations while scouting and then edit them on the spot. Now instead of sketching out a location lighting idea with a client on paper, we can work at the site with “Photo Booth” or some other other app to sketch in lighting locations, models, etc on a real image.
Processors:
The new version uses the new 1GHz A5 chip with dual-core processors. The CPU performance will be twice as fast as the iPad 1 and up to nine times faster graphics processing. This will be useful for photogs during editing and slide show presentations.
Storage and output:
Sadly the iPad 2 didn’t get the removable SD card photographers were craving, but there is a camera expansion pack and loads of on-board memory. The iPad 2 also outputs at full 1080p with and HDMI output, so you can plug your iPad into your client’s flat-screen and really wow them with your portfolio slide show. (The HDMI output requires a $39 adapter, and since the iPad 2 captures at 720p, I’m guessing it’s just up-scaled to 1080p)
Variety:
The iPad 2 will be available in many flavors and the 16GB WiFi version starts at $499. You can opt for white or black cases. It’s also available in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB variations, all with WiFi and some with 3G connectivity through ATT or Verizon (you have to choose just one). None of the units will act as a wifi hotspot like the iPhone 4.
By far we’re most excited about the processing speed, the additional camera with high res video, and the HDMI output. We see an improved work flow and more impressive client experience for photographers upgrading to the iPad 2.
What are your thoughts? Notice any benefits or negative aspects we missed from a photographer’s view?