iPad 2 Arrives Friday, Apple Surprises with Early iOS 4.3! New Version Available Now.

screengrab from iTunes

iPad 2 Arrives Friday
As I’ve mentioned, I plan to get my new iPad 2 this Friday. The good news is lines should be shorter this time than when iPad 1 was launched. Last year when the iPad debuted, there were over 200 Apple Stores and some 1,100 Best Buy outlets. There are now even more Apple Stores and over 10,000 other retail outlets where iPads should be available, including Best Buy, WalMart, Target, AT&T and Verizon.

iOS 4.3 Arrives Early
iOS 4.3 was scheduled to arrive the same day as the new iPad 2, this Friday. However, the iOS update is available starting today, two days early. iOS 4.3 offers improved performance of the Safari browser, the ability to return the hardware switch (button) to its “rightful” use as an orientation lock instead of muting app sounds, and third party support for AirPlay. AirPlay allows streaming audio and video to the newer Apple TV device (ATV2). Now app developers will be able to add AirPlay options to their apps. iOS 4.3 also adds improved iTunes Home Sharing for streaming audio or video from your computer to an iOS device such as the iPad.
You’ll need to update your computer to iTunes 10.2.1, which supports:
• Sync with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iOS 4.3.


• Improved Home Sharing. Browse and play from your iTunes libraries with Home Sharing on any iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iOS 4.3.

If you sync your iPad and don’t get a notice about the update, go to the Summary tab and look on the page for Version > Check for Update.

About Andy Brovey

Dr. Andy Brovey, The Portable Prof, teaches about digital tools through his work, websites and social media. In 2007, Apple Inc. recognized his work and named him an Apple Distinguished Educator. He started this iPad Academy website shortly after the first iPad went on sale. On his Freelance Teaching site you'll find the resources you need to teach like a smart entrepreneur.

One thought on “iPad 2 Arrives Friday, Apple Surprises with Early iOS 4.3! New Version Available Now.”

  • Dr. Larry Anderson

    Thanks, Dr. Brovey, for keeping us posted about this.
    Seems like the excitement during the next week or so will be at a fevered pitch, as new and veteran iPad users get their hands on the new iPad 2…and, now, with the updated iOS, there should be plenty of sparks flying.

    And, we know that Dr. Brovey will be right there in the middle of things!

Comments are closed.