Apple iPad 2 (16 GB) 9.7" Tablet (MC979LLA)

In a world of eternal questions, rapidly changing economical pressures, technological advancements, Mac Vs PC could quite possible be the most debated question within our current generation.  I am truly being converted to Apple Technology as PC has lagged far behind and provided nothing but washed out tired electronics and lackluster overbearing operating systems for the last 3 years. However I must digress and save this discussion for a different time. I actually wanted to write this review several weeks ago when I first purchased the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet. I ended up waiting until I used it more thoroughly.  I've been a PC user my entire life and I can honestly say this is one of the best most useful electronic devices I've used in a long time. The iPad goes beyond the norm and provides my growing business with a tool that is unmatched by anything I've used in the past.


Out of the Box
The Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet includes everything you need to get started, aside from a few novelty "extras" I will reference later in this review. The initial setup is the most negative thing I've found with the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet.  When I took my new "toy" out of the box, I found out that plugging it into my laptop and syncing it with my iTunes was required before use. This wouldn't have been bad, however I needed to install the latest version of iTunes which took well over an hour - Frustrating. There aren't many accessories you actually "need" to buy, as the unit came with everything I needed to get started, including the charging cable and standard applications. Once the update is complete the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet is fully ready to be utilized.  
 

Applications
Honestly, I could write an individual review for each one of the apps that the Apple iPad 2 could possibly run, however I will spare you the time for now. It is important to know that many programs and applications are free, so you don't necessarily need to spend hundreds of dollars on software.  Some of the programs that are included are Safari, which allows you to surf the web.  I find that Safari's layout and usability is comparable to Firefox, and far out-does Widows' browser, Internet Explorer. iTunes comes pre-installed on the iPad2, which is a convenient way to play your music, podcasts, movies, and listen to different audio books. Being able to access my iTunes acccount from both my iPod Nano 6th Generation 16GB MP3 Player, and my iPad2 makes using the app a no-brainer.  Other included programs give you the ability to print wirelessly, play streaming music, check out TV shows, find additional Mac devices, and multitask between each of the applications with great ease.  Photo Booth is a pretty neat application as it allows you to take photo's with your Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet, then save, send, or upload to facebook almost instantly - Did I mention that the iPad2 has not one, but two cameras?  And of course you can purchase additional apps by tapping on the app store icon, and easily check out some cool YouTube videos.
 

Portability
Seeing as it is extremely thin, light, and about half the size of a laptop It would be difficult to argue that the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet isn't portable.  Retrospectively speaking, if I knew that bringing my business information to consumers and clients would be so easy, I would have purchased the iPad in its first generation.  The touch screen also saves you the time of having to connect additional keyboards and devices.  I purchased a case to protect and keep all my items together for the unit and found this is the best way to travel with it.  In today's crazy high-speed instant gratification world, the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet is without a doubt the perfect device for anyone on the go.
 

Usability
Similar to flipping a light switch, the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet is always ready for a command in an instant.   The Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet turns on by simply pressing a button, and it goes from "off" to fully functional in a short 15 seconds. When not turning the system on from "off," a simple tap of a button wakes it up instantlyy. However if you have the Apple iPad 2 Polyurethane Smart Cover, the iPad2 wakes and sleeps as soon as the cover is opened or closed. The unit is very quick to open applications, check weather, and browse the web.  Also, the simplicity and usability is further justified by the touch screen, which makes flipping screens and switching between applications extremely straightforward.  The saying, "So easy a child can do it," comes to mind when learning how to operate the Mac software and applications included with the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet.
 

Battery Life
The OEM specifications promise 10 hours of battery life while surfing and browsing the web.  Honestly, I would say it varies depending on what applications you are using and that this timeframe can vary.  I would recommend using the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet, until the battery actually runs down to zero if feasible of course.  The battery life in my experience runs anywhere from 8-10 hours, which is predicated on the usage, applications, and settings used while operating the iPad. 
 

Wi-Fi or Full Fledged 3G?
Of course by now you've figured out that my purchase was the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet, which clearly is not the full, fledged 3G capable network.  The main reason for this would be that I do not require 3G internet access all hours of the day at different locations besides my home.  In addition most restaurants, clubs, hotels, and other business have a Wi-Fi internet connection.  This does save you a large sum of money if you choose to not get the 3G, however if you require it then get it.  I would just argue the 3G technology isn't really that necessary for most people using it locally or near business and civilization because again most places offer a Wi-Fi connection. 


Extras
Again the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet, comes with everything you need to get started, but there are a few recommendations of products I would get, such as the Apple Wireless Keyboard, Smart Cover, and Targus iPad Carrying Case.  You could also get the extra long 6 foot USB Data Sync Cable for All iPod's, iPhones, iPad Models 2G 3G, so you can charge at a great distance - the included charging cable measures only a foot.  These are just a few recommendations that you may want to invest in to make your experience easier, more comfortable, and safer as some of these items will protect the unit when using it on the go.  The Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet, has a multitude of accessories, and the ones I mentioned ran me a total of about $200 which was well worth the investment.   


Personal Experience
Using the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet, has become a real pleasure. I am up and surfing the web in a matter of seconds anywhere in my home.  Many businesses have the ability to connect to wireless, so this makes the tablet a great on-the-go tool.   I like the look and feel of the tablet as it is small, portable, and easy to transport which makes it better than lugging around my laptop.   Furthermore, most clients are fairly impressed with how I am able to demonstrate products, tasks, and information right in front of them with my Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet.  I actually found it difficult to find negatives with the unit, even being as critical as I am with computers and Apple products in general.   Overall, my experience has been positive and thus I submit to you that the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet makes an excellent tool or high tech toy - but it is important to note that this is not meant to be a fully-functioning computer and should not be thought of to completely replace one.


Recommendation
Being experienced in many different electronics, computers, and software programs, I can honestly say the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet, has offered me a different perspective on Apple and the technological advancements it is putting into play.  The overall computing world is becoming a social media extravaganza and therefore changing rapidly. I would say that Apple is at the forefront of this advancement.  Hopefully those that understand and know I am PC converting to Mac, take my recommendation seriously.  Additionally the Apple iPad 2 (16GB) Wi-Fi Tablet usability, applications, and portability make it a great addition to the tools I already use to keep my clients and business happy.  

 
Additional Apple Reviews and Accessories

Planet Audio Extra Long 6 Foot USB Data Sync Cable for All iPod, iPhone, iPad Models 2G 3G 3GS

Apple iPad 2 Polyurethane Smart Cover - Blue

iPod Nano 6th Generation 16GB MP3 Player

ScreenGuardz HD Clear Screen Protection

Targus iPad Carrying Case

Apple Wireless Keyboard