By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla

Apple's CEO Steve Jobs was present at the Spring event today and just revealed the iPad 2 which will begin shipping in the US on March 11 and which will make it to Canada on March 25th. The new iPad is powered by a new Apple A5 dual core processor running at 1 GHz, is 33% thinner than the previous model, offers dual cameras (5 megapixel rear, and a front facing camera for FaceTime). The new iPad will have the same price point (starting at $499) and storage capacity (16,32 and 64GB) as the current iPad and will also feature the same screen size and resolution.

Aside from the iconic black iPad, there will also be a white model available on ship date. Apple also announced Garageband, iMovie and FaceTime redesigned particularly for the new iPad. iOS 4.3 was also announced and will be a free download on March 11. No pre-order options are available on the Apple Online store.

In terms of accessories, Apple also revealed some Smart Covers, which are iPad 2 cases that incorporate magnets and allow power management features (turn device off and on by opening and closing) while keeping the screen free of dust. An HDMI-out port will allow the iPad 2 to output video or photos to HDTVs. Hit jump for Apple's full presser.