What operating system does the iPad use?

The iPad runs a modified version of the iPhone OS (in this case, version 3.2). It adds things like contextual menus that aren't available on the iPhone or iPod touch right now (there are some indications that they will stay iPad only, but no confirmation from Apple yet).

iPad 2 panel shipments slow as Apple prepares for the iPad 3

According to a Digitimes report, panel makers are preparing for a Q4 slowdown as Apple curbs its orders for iPad 2 components. Apple is both selling off excess iPad 2 inventory and preparing for the iPad 3.

Apple cut back on panel orders in Q3 2011, a move that caused LG shipments to fall by 500,000 and CMI’s panel shipments to be slashed in half. These cutbacks were necessary as iPad shipments reportedly exceeded demand. Industry sources claim Apple has a standing inventory of 4-5 million unsold iPads leftover from Q3 that it hopes to sell in the holiday quarter.

TouchFire: silicone screen-top keyboard for iPad

The keys have been reinforced with micro-structures to give the product some resistance against key strikes, and TouchFire can be attached to an iPad case when not in use via a pair of clips. The designers say that being able to feel where the keys are means that users can type as fast and as accurately on an iPad as they would on a laptop, and touch-typers should never have to take their eyes off the message pane.