Apple iPad 2 said to sport über speaker
Hopes for USB port, SD slot dashed?
Apple's iPad 2 will be slightly smaller than the current model, be a little less curvy - think of the latest, flat-backed iPod Touch rather than the angular iPhone 4 - but don't expect it to sport either the rumoured USB port or SD card slot.
So claims Japanese website Macotakara, citing Chinese moles. The big gaps seen on shots of upcoming cases for the iPad 2 are not there to make room for said portage but for a "wide-range" speaker with a grille that extends from the edge round to the back of the iPad.
We're not surprised. While we'd like to see both SD card and USB support built into the iPad 2, we can't see Apple adding them. It's too keen on iTunes and selling accessories for that.
The site says the tablet will sport the same size display - 9.7in - as the current model, so the small size reduction - from 243 x 190mm to 239 x 186mm will undoubtedly be due to a smaller bevel.
Other sources say the shrink - such as it is - will be accompanied by a more substantial reduction in the iPad's weight.
World+Dog also expects at least a forward-facing camera to tap into Apple's vido-call brand, FaceTime, and possibly a video-capanble 5Mp cam on the back. ®
COMMENTS
I don't think you've thought it through.
Think about all the people who might use an iPad on their lap, whilst in a state of undress.
Now imagine inadvertently answering a 'facetime' call with the rear camera.
Yep, they definitely should NOT include one.
USB and SD...
Although a wonderful addition, I will not be surprised if they don't appear. Every external connection opens the possibilities for people to hack the fruity device. Apple already have enough problems keep their things locked down without the chance of some smart-arse getting linux to boot off a USB stick!
Although I for one would love to see that!
Ban speakers from portable devices!
It was bad enough when their "music" was escaping from their headphones, but now bloody young people listening to repetative beats on the train through speakers is enough to make me reach for my blunderbus! If something isnt done, soon we will have to endure their illegal recordings of their vulgar television programs being rebroadcast to all & sundry with these so-called Eye Pads. What's wrong with a good book?
Disgusted of Tunbridge Wells.
Rear camera
While I welcome the addition of a front facing camera I hope they don't add a rear facing camera. Who in their right might would want to use something the size of an iPad to take photos with. It would be a complete waste and add unnecessary cost to the device.
