The new iPad features: did we get what we wanted?
A better screen, but no longed for micro-SD slot
Regular readers will know that a couple of weeks ago V3 put together a wish list of features we hoped to see in the New iPad (then naively believed to be called the iPad 3), including 4G support, a smaller-form factor and the use of Siri.
Now, with the device laid bare before the world, we take a look at our demands to see if they were met and if we came anywhere close to guessing at the new features Apple has added.
10. iOS 5.1 with Siri and Flash
Well, we knew Flash support was a big ask, but we were disappointed not to get Siri, which we thought was a must for the new iPad. Strange decision, but no doubt it'll turn up in the future.
V3 score: 0.
9. Include NFC functionality
Sadly not, but then again, it was never going to be high on the list of functions that Apple was going to worry about including with this device update.
V3 score: 0.
8. Add a micro-SD card slot
Sigh, yet again we were let down by the folks at Cupertino, but then with such a clear lead in the market it's not like they have to do much to impress people, so they're no doubt holding back such updates for future models.
V3 score: 0.
7. Quad-core processor and more RAM
Well, we're not sure on this one. Apple claimed the new A5X processor offers significant improvements over quad-core processors from the likes of Nvidia, based on graphical capabilities at least, but on the product's tech specs page it's listed as a dual-core processor.
So while it's better, it may not necessarily be the best on the market, depending on the criteria you use. Still, it's an upgrade, and that's what we were after.
V3 score: 1.
6. Revamped 8in model with Retina display
The size is no different, but the screen display is the main selling point Apple is pushing with the New iPad (really, what a silly name).
Promising a staggering 3.1m pixels, a 2048x1536 resolution and eye-popping 264 pixels per inch, the firm clearly thinks people want hyper-real images on the device, although V3 isn't so convinced it's that much of a selling point.
But we asked and we received, so we shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth.
V3 score: 1.
The new iPad features: did we get what we wanted?
A better screen, but no longed for micro-SD slot
5. Include a Thunderbolt port
Again, another disappointment. High-speed data transfers are still to arrive on the iPad.
V3 score: 0.
4. Better camera components
We did get this one and Apple had to update it really, with the cameras on the iPad 2 both rather pathetic.
Now, though, a nice 5-megapixel front-facing camera is included, which should make any snaps more than good enough to share with friends, and take advantage of that high-quality screen.
V3 score: 1.
3. Add 4G support for superfast mobile broadband browsing
A great addition for many nations, this will allow those that take their precious devices outside to browse the web, download files and send information far faster than traditional mobile networks allow.
Although for those in the UK, it's hardly likely to make a difference until 2014.
V3 score: 1.
2. Keyboard docking accessory like the Asus Transformer Prime
This would have perhaps been the biggest, most notable change, but Apple did nothing on this front, meaning that for those that need to type as well as swipe, the Transformer Prime could still be the best device on the market.
V3 score: 0.
1. Guarantee a portion of profits go to Foxconn employees
Apple didn't promise anything explicit, and we didn't expect them to, but at least their decision to commission audits of Foxconn and threaten suppliers found to be using child labour with the risk of having their contracts ended, shows the firm is aware this is an issue that isn't going to go away.
V3 score: 0.
So overall, then, we got just under half what we asked for, with a score of 4/10, which for we think isn't that bad, given the endless hype and mad conjecture that greets the two-month period before an Apple device launch.
Still, V3 will aim to improve this performance when the iPhone 5 rumour mill starts up.