Ask TUAW: The iPad 2 is Here! Edition
The iPad 2 is finally here! In honor of Apple's super-gadget, we're having an iPad 2 edition of Ask TUAW again this week!
Now, we can never have too many questions, so if you have anything you'd like to know about your new iPad or the one you're going to buy as soon as they're back in stock, here's what you need to do: go to the comments of this post, think of all the Mac/iPad/iPhone questions that keep you awake at night and fire away. You can also email your questions directly to ask [at] tuaw.com.
Now, onward to questions!
Angel writes:
When Apple first released iMovie for the iPhone 4, I purchased the app right away. I am going to be purchasing an iPad 2 tomorrow and I just wanted to know, do I have to re-purchase iMovie on the iPad? Or are they two different versions that should be purchased separately?
If I can just use the version I already purchased on my iPad as well, how would I get it on there?
iMovie is universal for iPad/iPhone now. If you bought it earlier for your iPhone, you do not need to purchase it again to get an iPad version; both versions are bundled together in the same app.
If you purchased iMovie before but no longer have it stored on any of your devices, just download it again from the App Store -- you will not be charged to re-download apps you've bought previously, unlike music.
Clay wonders:
Hi! I currently have an iPhone 4 from AT&T and am planning to buy an iPad 2 this Friday. I am fortunate enough to live in an area with good coverage from both AT&T and Verizon. So, my question is, which iPad should I buy?
Sometimes I think that I should get the Verizon model so that if the AT&T signal is stronger, I can use my iPhone as a hotspot. If my AT&T signal is weak, I can still use Verizon to get data on the iPad.
Then, I wonder about the potential resale value of the CDMA version vs the GSM version. Also, with iOS 4.3 not available for the Verizon iPhone, what will happen with future iOS updates? Will the CDMA iPad keep up with the GSM models?
Scott asks a similar question:
I'm paralyzed by indecision! Please help! I'm convinced a 3G model is the way to go. I'm willing to pay $130 to have the flexibility of 3G connectivity when I need it. However, I could use some guidance choosing between Verizon and AT&T.
The pricing for a moderate user per month isn't terribly different. For my purposes, I'm more concerned about coverage availability and speed. I've been happy with my AT&T iPhone most of the time and I'm tempted to stick with them. What are the advantages and disadvantages of Verizon vs. AT&T outside of costs?
Scott, Clay, and everyone else wondering which of the 18 iPad models to get, here's the lay of the land.
The Verizon and AT&T iPads are similar in the United States. They can both connect to Wi-Fi networks when you're at home or work, and when you're on the go, they both connect to 3G cellular networks for data, just like the iPhone. However, things change when you go outside the US.
The Verizon iPad uses the same CDMA technology as the Verizon iPhone, and thus has very limited capabilities when you leave the country. The AT&T/GSM iPad, on the other hand, is unlocked and has a SIM card slot. Most countries have GSM providers that you can purchase data from. Here are some examples from Canada and the United Kingdom. They're some of the best deals you can get on international data -- considerably cheaper than AT&T and Verizon's international data plans.
As far as data speeds go, the Verizon iPhone tests poorly on 3G data speeds compared to the AT&T iPhone. We don't have any numbers yet, but I wouldn't be surprised if these numbers held true comparing the Verizon iPad to the AT&T iPad as well.
Finally, check out the rate plans for Verizon and AT&T. They're pretty similar for comparable data usage, but Verizon makes it a bit easier to buy data in bulk.
Last question, from Stephen:
I have 2 USB cables that I use with my iPod touch. One of them is plugged into a wall charger. That one has a frayed end and I have to fuss with it sometimes to get it to charge. The other has no problems and I use it for syncing. My question is: Am I doing or will I do any damage to my iPod by using the frayed cable? (Perhaps shorting the connections or something.)
It's probably best if you stop using the frayed cable. If you have to fuss with it to get it to work, you may be rapidly connecting and disconnecting power to your iDevice. The best thing to do is to replace the frayed cable. You can get another one for $19 from the Apple Store, and considerably cheaper if you shop around online. Your local Genius Bar might even replace it if you ask nicely. Best of luck, and be careful with your cords -- no yanking or tugging!
Thanks for the questions everyone, and remember: it's very difficult to have a Q&A column without Qs. So, put your questions in the comments of this post, or shoot us an email at ask [at] tuaw.com. Also, if you have anything to add to our answers, we love feedback and fresh ideas.
Next week: The Spring Equinox Edition of Ask TUAW!
