Apple unveiled its next-generation iPad last March 7, 2012 during Apple's official event in San Francisco.

One of the most notable features of the "new iPad" is its Retina display 9.7-in with 2048 x 1536 pixels at 264 pixels per inch. This means that the new iPad will sport a higher resolution display which can change the way tablet customers utilize their tablets. Aside from that, its processor was also upgraded from A5 processor to the much faster A5X processor, quad-core graphic. The camera features for the new iPad also had significant improvement as it now has a 5MP camera with advanced optics, a backside illumination sensor, auto white balance, and face detection.

Another notable feature for the new iPad is its 4G LTE connectivity to mobile networks. Unfortunately, US customers would only be the one to benefit from this technology as it is not yet available in Australia. The reason why this is not available in Australia is because it is not compatible with the frequency (1800MHz) of 4G networks offered by Telstra in Australia. The new iPad 4G LTE system works only at 700MHz and 2100MHz spectrum. Experts predict that 4G LTE in the new iPad can be accessed in the year 2015.

During the official event, Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook announced that the new iPad will be available in local stores by March 16, 2012. The new iPad is also available for pre-orders in different countries like US, Canada, Britain, France, Germany, Switzerland and Japan. A spokesperson from Apple Australia also confirmed the news that the new iPad would also be available on March 16, 2012 and they are currently accepting pre-orders. In addition, Telstra and Optus also confirmed that they will also be selling the new iPad.

The Australian Apple store already released the selling price for the new iPad. According to Apple, the selling price would be around AU$539 to AU$759. As for the new iPad from telecom networks, it is estimated to be around AU$679 to AU$899. On the other hand, the price for entry-level iPad 2 has already dropped to AU$429.