Apple iPad2

Before the release of the original iPad, Apple critics were ready to pounce on a company that's experienced several impressive product debuts, but was positioning itself for a large and public failure with an impending product that's never been successfully launched.

Now, approximately 15 million units later Apple has launched its second-generation iPad product line with the introduction of the iPad2. The new version products builds upon the iPad platform with improvements that include a physical size that's one-third slimmer than the original and upgraded processing through the inclusion of a Dual-Core A5 processor that enables the units to run much faster than the previous versions.

Other features bundled into the iPad2 include front- and rear-facing cameras to support Apple's FaceTime video conferencing/calling platform, HDMI video mirroring functions, Apple's Airplay technology for media streaming, a new iOS 4.3 operating system and the company's new Smart Cover, which automatically turns the iPad2 on or off.