iOS 4.2 for iPad is Ready and Heaven Sent

I've said before that I am a Microsoft guy. But Back in May I purchased the iPad wireless + 3G and changed my tech life forever.

The iPad truly has changed everything.  I take it to work, travel with it on long and short trips, use it extensively for meetings and presentations and even used it for this year's midterm elections.  It's portableness is crucial for its usefulness.  I can't go back.  [Note: it has not replaced my laptop.  It was never meant to replace my laptop.  But it has cut down on how much I use it.  For quick emails, calendar, and transporting data, the iPad is superior in every way.  If I'm going to actually type up a document or do a blog post like this one, I'll still use either my laptop or desktop.  There is no replacing either of those.]

There were some unfavorable limitations to the iPad when I first purchased it and I wrote about those which you can read here.  Last night I was able to get my hands on the iOS 4.2 update prior to it being released by Apple and it corrects nearly all my complaints, superbly.  Here's how you can get your update too!!

[Note:  You can wait about a week and I'm sure Apple will make it available via iTunes.  Or if you are like me and can't wait, here is what I did.]  This process is for Windows users only.

1. Search Google for iTunes 10.1 Beta 2, Windows x86 – 70.9MB

2. Then Search for iOS 4.2 GM (IPAD) – 549MB, version 8C134 is what you need.

3. Install the new version of iTunes. (back iPad up first if you want) you'll have to reboot.

4. Plug your iPad into your PC.

5. Run the new version of iTunes.

6. Click on your iPad while in iTunes, choose to update iPad while also holding down the shift key.

7. Select the iPad update file you just downloaded, IPSW 4.2, and let it install.

Takes about 10 minutes and you'll be ready to go.

Multitasking, folders, PRINTING, Airplay, much better keyboard, and so much more.  Here's a great write up about all the updates.  Definitely worth it for anyone using an iPad or thinking about making the purchase.