Just about everyone has heard about Apple’s new iPad. Apple has yet again released a new product with almost as much pomp and circumstance as the recent royal wedding, but is all of this attention really warranted? Following a typical Apple move, the new iPad was released as another “unbelievable, revolutionary” product, complete with minimalistic advertisements, the cries of fan-boys, and more presence in the public mind than they could hope to buy do to journalists of all types covering this new product. In the end, though, is the new iPad truly with upgrading, or is it just another installment in Apple’s gradual release of slightly newer features?

The biggest point for the new iPad is the Retina display. Apple managed to produce an LCD screen with twice as many pixels along each axis, giving the new screen four times the total number of pixels. From all user accounts, the new screen is, in fact, spectacular. Some people were hesitant as to how noticeable the improvement would be, seeing as the iPad is typically used at a distance of two to four feet, as compared with a much closer hold for the iPhone. However, reports say that the new screen is stunning and all of the added clarity does not go to waste but is definitely noticeable.

Another major selling point of this new iPad is the inclusion of 4G technologies. Both AT&T and Verizon are beginning to roll out their respective LTE/4G networks, promising much faster download speeds than existing 3G networks. The inclusion of this right out of the box may be a major selling point if you happen to live in an area that already has the new network capabilities (or will be getting it within the next year or so). Additionally, Verizon’s plan allows for utilizing the iPad as a mobile hotspot at no additional charge. Especially on the 4G network, using company programs on a laptop or simply sharing Wi-Fi with others around you could be a big selling point.

There have been some reports that the new iPad is having some overheating issues. However, these seem to be sporadic at best. Additionally, Apple will most likely deal with these on an individual basis. They will not want this to become a major issue, so if there are any problems, simply taking it in to your nearest Apple store will probably fix the problem immediately.

Overall, this new iPad definitely seems to be worth the steep price. While they are still more expensive than other comparable tablets on the market, part of the value comes from the immense App Store, as well as a user experience that is familiar to almost everyone at this point. If you happen to own an iPad 2, you probably do not want to update yet. Because of the iPad 2′s enhanced processor and hardware, it will likely be able to run all but the most graphically intensive of the new iPad apps to come. However, iPad 1 owners may want to look at upgrading as the internal hardware improvements, as well as better 3G/4G antennas and improved speed may make it a worthwhile upgrade. And remember, if you don’t want to update now, wait about a year; Apple is sure to update the line again with new “revolutionary” improvements.