It is now 3 years later, and Apple has just released its 3^rd generation iPad, or just simply called “The new iPad”. Confusing as it might be for many people, the latest iPad is the biggest jump so far for Apple’s tablet. Whereas the iPad 2 was perhaps a refinement of the original iPad with an extra core for processing, and a thinner case, the new iPad is a massive upgrade in terms of graphics, power and overall usability.

But the thing is – the iPad 2 is now a year old, still a very good tablet device, and arguably the best tablet out there. While the Android tablets have been catching up fast, the sales of Apple’s device still dominate. But this time around the competition is stiffer than ever, especially with launch of high end tablets like the Asus Transformer Prime. So what have the worker bees in Cupertino been up to in the last year?

Design and Build

First off – if you already have an iPad 2, it will be very tough to spot the differences with the new iPad. In fact, the only giveaway is a slightly thicker case (which we will get to later), a slightly bigger lens on the back, and a slightly heavier weight (yes,  all “slight” changes). So if you wanted someone to spot your 3^rd generation iPad across a boardroom table – sorry.

But the build is still first rate – all steel and glass. It is still the best looking tablet out there, and the stark minimalism means that it will be instantly identified as the iPad. In terms of buttons it is exactly the same as before. On the front there is the Home button to take you back to the springboard, a sleep/wake button on top, and a volume rocker on the right hand side. Oh, and a mute switch. Simple.

But it is not all good news – even though the average user will not notice the new iPad being slightly thicker,  it does make finding a decent case for the iPad very tough. While loose fitting sleeves and cases still fit fine, tight fitting or rigid cases just do not fit at all. My favourite case, a Speck Fitfolio, just does not fit properly. So, here is one little problem for early adopters – your existing iPad 2 case might not fit.

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