Apple Unveils New iPad 3, Due March 16

Apple unveiled its highly-anticipated iPad 3 at a major press event on Wednesday, March 7, 2012, and analysts immediately began predicting that the device will help the Cupertino-based firm retain its hold on the nascent tablet-computing market.

This third version of the ubiquitous iPad boasts several new features.

First, the device has received a major bump up in its display capabilities, with a resolution of 2038x1536. In comparison, Blu-Ray movies are displayed in a resolution of 1920x1080.

Apple says that the new iPad 3 tablet will be capable of displaying more than 3.1 million pixels. For the record, that's the most in history, noted Apple marketing executive, Phil Schiller. (Source: mercurynews.com)

Apple Targets Gamers with New iPad

The new iPad also incorporates a more powerful microchip and significant graphics capabilities, leading some analysts to predict that Apple may be positioning the new iPad for a serious invasion of the video game market.

"Microsoft and Sony need to be reevaluating their next-generation console plans given the new iPad's quad graphics and 2K resolution," said Patrick Moorhead, President of analyst firm Moor Insights and Strategy. (Source: pcmag.com)

A new retina display helps boost the device's security, while its voice dictation capabilities will help users not familiar or comfortable with touchpad keyboards more easily write emails and instant messages.

The iPad 3 will also be able to connect to next-generation mobile networks. The device can even be used as a mobile 4G hotspot.

New iPad On Sale March 16 at $499

Interested consumers won't have to wait long to get their hands on the new device.

Apple says it will hit retail shelves in the U.S. on March 16. The iPad 3 will cost about $499. However, because of the iPad 3 there will be a price reduction for the iPad 2, which will drop from $499 to $399.