The tech world has been abuzz lately, chiefly due to Apple’s rapidly upcoming “event” that’s slated to happen on October 23rd. There has been constant news and rumors regarding the iPad Mini, iBooks, and even the expected upgrade to the company’s Mac Book. One area that is expected to be covered isn’t really receiving as much recognition as it deserves. I’m talking about the revamping of the “iPad HD,” Apple’s iconic tablet that hit stores earlier this year.
It was rumored for awhile that we would see a new iPad HD, but thanks to an Apple “sales manifest” (seen below), we now know that this upgrade is a reality. The release list shows what appears to be the iPad HD revamp, with prices set identically to where they currently are. Sources close to Apple are breaking their silence about the upgrade, which is now being called a “tweak” rather than a full revamp. Does the price point, and the fact that the iPad HD was just released earlier his year, affect your decision about buying “re-buying” it?
The sources claim that this new tweak will definitely feature the lightning connector, which was unveiled with the new iPhone 5. The connector is a faster, more streamlined way to increase battery charge times and speed up data transfer rates. Another probable upgrade comes with the device’s cellular capabilities. With the iPhone 5 taking the upgrade from 3G to 4G, it only makes sense that the iPad HD would receive the same treatment. This news about a tweak, rather than a revamp, has many (including myself) questioning if Apple is going to add any new or upgraded internals to the device. I was really hoping to see the introduction of the shiny new A6 chip.
Do these small little upgrades justify you running out and buying a new device? Probably not, and unfortunately, this is really only going to appeal to those of you who haven’t bought an iPad HD yet or those of you who have a substantial savings. The fact that the original version of the device came out only a short while ago, paired with the fact that there is no “amnesty” or “trade-in program” for current customers probably means that most iPad HD owners aren’t going to shell out for the new features.
Although, if you are considering making the switch, you can probably score a fairly decent amount for your current iPad HD (to put towards your new one). Since the device is still “brand new,” it’s likely to fetch a decent price. Although it’s going to have to be below retail value, since the new iPad HDs won’t exactly cost any more than the old ones. Craigslist, Gazelle, and even Gamestop are all great options to consider if you need to sell your “soon to be old iPad.”
Be sure to stay with us and tune in this Tuesday, October 23, for our coverage of the newest Apple Event where we will bring you all the info you’ll need regarding the upgrade to the iPad HD.
Photo Credits: Apple, 9to5Mac
