It’s hard to believe it has been over a decade since Apple first introduced the slim, sleek second iteration of the iPad. Launched in March 2011, the iPad 2 succeeded the original iPad with some significant upgrades and enhancements that had consumers excited. While tablets have advanced tremendously in the years since, let’s take a nostalgic look back at what was once Apple’s revolutionary iPad 2.
At just 8.8mm thick and weighing just over 1 pound, the iPad 2 boasted both a thinner and lighter
design compared to the original iPad. This made the tablet lighter and more portable while still maintaining a roomy 9.7-inch display. The curved aluminum back fit comfortably in the user’s hands, proving Apple still valued form as well as function.
One key upgrade was the inclusion of front and rear cameras on the iPad 2 - a feature lacking from the first generation. While mediocre by today’s standards at just 0.7 megapixels, the rear camera allowed users to capture and share photos and 720p videos. Together with the front-facing VGA camera, the iPad 2 enabled video-calling with apps like FaceTime for the first time on an Apple tablet.
Under the hood, the iPad 2 featured an updated Apple A5 processor whichdelivered double the RAM and up to 9 times faster graphics performance. This ensured snappier response times when launching and switching between apps. Powering all this was a battery that could last an impressive 10 hours per charge – a full workday of use without having to find a power outlet.
For connectivity, most cellular-enabled models utilized 3G technology, while some versions offered 4G LTE speeds. Wi-Fi models were also available for wireless connectivity. Users could enjoy bluetooth accessories like keyboards thanks to Bluetooth 2.1 support. A three axis gyro also improved motion sensing and control for games.
With the introduction of the iPad 2 also came iOS 4, which brought multitasking capabilities that allowed seamless switching between apps. The iPad 2 launched with essential productivity apps like Pages word processor and access to popular games like Angry Birds. Optional accessories like the Smart Cover also debuted alongside the iPad 2, magnetically clipping to the side of the tablet to automatically wake it.
Pricing for the Wi-Fi only iPad 2 model started at $499 USD for 16GB storage, $599 for 32GB and maxed out at $699 for 64GB. Adding 4G LTE connectivity brought the cost closer to $629 starting price. These were logical prices at the time which made the iPad 2 accessible for everyday consumers and mobile workers.
The thinner, faster and more powerful iPad 2 cemented Apple’s dominance in the tablet space. As one of the best-selling iPad models ever with over 15 million units sold, for a time it was the gold standard for tablets from 2011 through much of 2012. While tablets like the 4th generation iPad and iPad Air have since taken the helm with slimmer bezels and powerful performance, the beloved iPad 2 still holds nostalgia for many as their first Apple tablet.