Splashtop on Wednesday released a new version of its remote-control software for the iPad, Splashtop 2. In support of this next generation of its software, Splashtop said it has built a network of relay servers--a "bridging cloud infrastructure"--that lets users securely connect to remote computers via a highly optimized connection.

Using your iPad to view and control your computer is becoming increasingly popular with consumers as well as enterprise users. In the past year BYTE has published a review of Splashtop's remote control solution for Windows 8 and a hands-on story discussing solutions, including Splashtop's, for using an iPad as a secondary display. Splashtop 2 can control Macs and Windows PCs.

Splashtop 2 claims a number of enhancements, including allowing devices on the same LAN to connect with just a user name and password. The Anywhere Access Pack, a new in-app optional purchase, lets users connect to their devices across the Internet. Splashtop says the new app also is optimized for newer hardware, including Apple Retina displays.

Earlier versions of Splashtop used an awkward authentication scheme based on IP addresses and Google accounts. The company claims to have simplified the process. Below is a company video demonstrating the new version.

The app doesn't require any special configuration information and has self-optimizing network connectivity technology that lets users obtain the best performance possible regardless of network type, traffic, or latency.

The app sells for $9.99 in the iTunes App Store, but will be available for a limited time at a promotional price of $1.99. The Anywhere Access Pack is available as an in-app purchase for $0.99 per month or $9.99 per year. Stay tuned for a full BYTE review of Splashtop 2.