Despite his illness troubles Apple fans were relieved to see Steve Jobs take to the stage to introduce the new iPad, the iPad2. The product is an improved version rather than a radical new design but in any case consumers are set to benefit as the iPad2 starts at the same price as its predecessor $499 for the base 16GB model with new improved features.

• Tapered design and 33% thinner
• Faster chip (dual-core A5 CPU, claimed to be twice as fast as its predecessor)
• Dual Web Cams (Rear facing 720p HD resolution)
• Integrated gyroscope for games
• 3G Units available
• The same 10 hour battery life as its predecessor
• Available in black and white
• App store with 350,000 Apps

As the tablet market continues to expand the iPad2 is set to help Apple stay one step ahead of its rivals for the time being.

Prices $499-$829

The iPad2 is released on March 11 in the US and internationally on March 25