The iPad 2 is here, ushering in a new version of Apple's software, iOS 4.3. It's not a huge departure from the first iPad, but in our early hands-on, we did like its thinner, lighter case and faster processor and Web browser.
Rumours flew around the iPad 2 like flies around honey, but the ones that settled into actual, real-life features offer an insight into what we can expect to see on the iPhone 5.
iOS software update
It's a no-brainer that iOS 4.3 will bring all its bells and whistles to the iPhone 5, since this new version is already on its way to the iPhone 4 and iPhone 3GS.
Read our preview of the changes in store in iOS 4.3 for all the gory details. It's not a huge update, with Wi-Fi tethering getting our vote as the marquee feature. By the time the iPhone 5 arrives, we'll probably be pining for the next version of iOS -- iOS 5, perhaps.
Wafer-thin mint
The iPad 2 is only 8.8mm thick, even thinner than the iPhone 4. Keeping in mind that the iPhone 4 is the slimmest phone currently on shelves -- although thinner ones are imminent -- that's spectacular. The iPad 2 also promises to hold on to its 10-hour battery life.
We think the iPhone 4 is certain to take advantage of the lessons learned in building the iPad 2's slender case. Expect a wafer-thin phone from Apple this year.
Double your fun
The iPad 2 joins the Motorola Xoom and the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, among others, on the dual-core processor bandwagon. Apple calls its CPU the A5, and at 1GHz, we're told that it's the same as the processor in the original iPad but with two cores.
But dual-core processors aren't limited to tablets. The Samsung Galaxy S 2 and LG Optimus 2X are just a couple of example of mobiles with the two-headed CPUs inside.
We've tried a beta version of the new iOS 4.3 on the iPhone 4, and it already makes the phone faster at browsing the Web. But two cores should speed up processor-intensive tasks such as graphics, making games better looking.
Out fingers and toes are crossed that the A5 will come to the iPhone 5, and that it won't sap the battery.
What would you like to see in the upcoming iPhone, besides a working antenna? Let us know in the comments.
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Comments 9
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anonymous 3 March, 2011 16:12
Our* fingers...
Anonymous 3 March, 2011 17:06
I'd like to see 4G connectivity, though I think that is a fat chance. I;d also like to see a magnetic leather cover like the one for the newest iPad.
Anonymous 3 March, 2011 17:30
hi
Anonymous 3 March, 2011 18:38
integrated flash player!!!! Puhleeeeeez
A "Mail" that has sorting option, by name, date, etc!
Dark or graphic aluminium!! NOT silver! No plastic!
Anonymous 3 March, 2011 20:59
i need USB connectivity
Anonymous 4 March, 2011 01:17
I love the curve on the ipad 2 really lets you appreciate its thinness. I'm a 3Gs owner and never really liked the 4 design, a bit too sharp. the curves of the ipad2 on the iphone 5 would be great.
higher quality cameras would be nicer, as would a screen that went out to the edges a bit more.
the idea of it being thinner kinda makes me think as my brother has an ipod touch which feels rather odd holding after an actual phone. but if you could fit an entire phone into that size (maybe not ipod touch size, another few generations?) it would be quite a contender for other manufacturers.
maybe the same back as the ipad2? or keep the glass/plastic?
anonymous 4 March, 2011 11:31
I really don't understand the craze of thin iPhones. I've held iPhone 4 many times and wished it was a bit thicker (~10mm). It almost slipped many times. Have to be very careful handling a thin phone.
Can't imaging iPhone 5 to be any thinner than this.
Anonymous 4 March, 2011 15:02
can anyone tell me if i am able to buy the iphone 5 in the USA in march 2011.
anonymous 4 March, 2011 19:19
Making The Back Rounded Is What They Did With The iPod Touch, The Fan-boys Wont Like That, They Wont Be As Distinguished When Flashing There iPhone about, It Would Look Just Like The iPod Touch Does, No Need Too Bash The iPhone 4, It Looks Better As It Is. Shame They Didnt Increase The iPad Screen Resolution, Going From 1080p To 568p, There's Alot Of Difference, Hopefully They'll Make Me Buy The iPad 3 By Putting In 1920x1080p Resolution, Or Higher =)