iPad 2 Available This Friday, March 11

The iPad 2 was announced by Apple last week and will be available online this Friday, March 11 as well as in the Apple Store, Walmart, and Best Buy at 5 PM the same day. There will be no pre-orders.

The new iPad is 33% thinner, 15% lighter, and faster with a dual-core chip. It claims the same 10 hour battery life and starts at $499.

Apple also announced the iPad Smart Cover which is attached by magnets and can automatically wake and sleep the device. It also folds to provide a stand which can hold the iPad in 2 different positions - for viewing or typing. The Smart Cover will cost $39 or $69.

For more information, pictures, and video, check out Engadget's post or Apple's website.