Well, Apple always finds a way to be "different," and they've certainly done that with the introduction of the new iPad. The new iPad is called...iPad. It remains to be seen if we'll get an explanation into why they didn't decide to continue with the numbering system - or a whole new naming system - but it's clear Apple wants to start over again and has now created a slight confusion among consumers - as the iPad is far superior than the iPad 2. If you despise Apple, at least stick around for the conclusion.

Here's the launch video:

Here are the specs:

  • 2048 x 1536 IPS Retina Display - 261 PPI
  • A5X processor with Dual-Core CPU and Quad-Core GPU
  • 5mp camera and 1080p video recording
  • 4G LTE
  • $499, $599 and $699 for 16, 32, and 64GB
  • $629, $729, and $829 for 4G LTE
  • March 16 Availability

What does this mean for you? Well if you're one of the millions of creatives out there who own Apple devices, it's obviously exciting on a base level. But what Apple has done is truly push the envelope for resolution in a small screen. At 10 inches (same size as the previous iPad), the screen now has a high enough pixel density to be considered a Retina Display - that is, if held at least 15 inches away from your face. No other 10" monitor in existence right now has a pixel density that high.

This means that we can finally watch not only 1080p videos, but actual 2K files from a RED Epic or Arri Alexa in full resolution on the iPad (hardware allowing). This is going to be a blessing for most or a curse for some. I would expect that if you've got a rough cut of anything, and a client or boss with a new iPad, they're going to want a full resolution file to be able to watch on their mobile device.

The positive end of this announcement for most of us, is that we now have the highest resolution 10" production monitor ever made. Is connectivity and durability a possible issue - probably - but with a device like the Teradek Cube, you can give directors, producers, and clients a full resolution image of whatever you're shooting. This is scary in some ways, but if these higher-ups have a better sense of the final image because of the iPad - maybe they'll leave you alone a little more (maybe). Regardless, this is a major development and there are an infinite number of reasons that this kind of resolution is helpful for filmmakers and creatives. Apple does one thing that even detractors can't deny: they push other companies into innovating at a faster pace, and it's likely over the next year or two every tablet screen will be at least 1080.

More to come soon on the other Apple announcements of the day - like 1080p movies in iTunes, new Apple TV, and an upgraded iMovie.

Link: Apple iPad

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