included Apps
Calendar
Can draw data from host computer and new events can be added via iPad.
Contacts
Address book app for contact details which syncs to computer Address Book.
YouTube
Links straight to YouTube web site - can be hidden via Restrictions in the Setting panel.
Maps
Connects directly to Google Maps and consequently needs an internet connection to operate.
Notes
Built-in note making app which now has a selection of fonts to choose from - syncs with computer.
Videos
Library for storing and watching video files - schools can save watch their own content here too.
Photos
Library for images from host computer, camera connection kit, web sites of saved from apps.
iTunes
Link to online iTunes Store - can be hidden via Restrictions in the Setting panel.
App Store
Direct link to download apps - can be hidden via Restrictions in the Setting panel.
Music
Functions like an iPod - draws music & podcasts from host computer or download from iTunes
Safari
iOS version of the Mac web browser which can import links from host computer or MobileMe
Mail
Can import all email setting from host machine or set up new accounts on the iPad.
FaceTime
Video conference app allows for calls to others with iOS devices and Macs - needs wifi connection.
Find My iPad
Security app which uses MobileMe account to find lost iPad - can display message/passcode remotely.
Camera
Built-in camera app using either front or back camera for video and still images - saves to camera roll.
Photo Booth
iOS version of the Mac OSX snapshot app which uses the iPad 2’s front-facing camera.
Game Center
Social gaming app which allows players to make contact online and compete with each other.
Out of the Box...
Fortunately the iPad comes with a number of apps which will get you up and running, although many of these need internet access to become functional. Some of those which don’t need web access will need to be connected to a computer in order to transfer content over to the iPad. Out of the box the iPad is capable of storing photos, music, podcasts and videos along with other data such as contact info and diary events, much of which can be transferred over from the host computer when the iPad is connected via its dock.
Primarily the iPad is about mobile computing and connecting to the net - this is when its strengths become apparent. All iPads come with WIFi built in as standard and connecting to a wireless network should be pretty straightforward. There is also the option of a 3G version with a range of daily/weekly/monthly tariffs for getting on the net wherever you are. Browsing the web with the larger screen is a delight and being able to navigate sites using touch and gesture is quite different from the traditional method of point and click using a mouse or trackpad.
Newsstand
Newspaper and magazine app which stores and organises subscriptions to publications.
iMessage
Allows the sending of text messages between devices running iOS and on a wifi network.
Reminders
Simple reminders and to do list making app which can send notifications to keep you on task.
iBooks
Excellent ebook reader with great features like search, highlighting, note making and bookmarking.
