Apple’s iPad has become a staple in the world of technology, with its sleek design, powerful features, and user-friendly interface. With each new release, the iPad continues to evolve and improve, making it a must-have device for many consumers.
But with so many different models and generations of iPads available, it can be challenging to keep track of which one is the newest. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the newest iPad generation and compare it to previous models to help you determine which one is right for you.
The Evolution of the iPad
The First Generation iPad
The first iPad was released in 2010 and revolutionized the tablet market. It featured a 9.7-inch display, a single-core A4 processor, and 256 MB of RAM. While it may seem outdated now, at the time, it was a game-changer and set the standard for future tablets.
The iPad 2
The iPad 2 was released in 2011 and featured a thinner design, a dual-core A5 processor, and 512 MB of RAM. It also introduced the front and rear-facing cameras, making it easier to take photos and video chat with friends and family.
The iPad 3rd Generation
The third-generation iPad, also known as the “new iPad,” was released in 2012 and featured a Retina display, a faster A5X processor, and 1 GB of RAM. It also introduced 4G LTE connectivity, making it easier to stay connected on the go.
The iPad 4th Generation
The fourth-generation iPad was released in 2012, just six months after the third-generation iPad. It featured a faster A6X processor and a Lightning connector, making it more efficient and easier to use.
The iPad Air
In 2013, Apple released the iPad Air, which featured a thinner and lighter design, an A7 processor, and 1 GB of RAM. It also introduced Touch ID, allowing users to unlock their device with their fingerprint.
The iPad Mini
The iPad Mini was released in 2012 and was the first smaller-sized iPad. It featured a 7.9-inch display, an A5 processor, and 512 MB of RAM. It was a popular choice for those who wanted a more compact iPad.
The iPad Mini 2
The iPad Mini 2, also known as the iPad Mini with Retina display, was released in 2013 and featured a Retina display, an A7 processor, and 1 GB of RAM. It also introduced Touch ID, making it more secure and convenient to use.
The iPad Mini 3
The iPad Mini 3 was released in 2014 and was very similar to the iPad Mini 2, with the addition of Touch ID and a gold color option. It was not a significant upgrade from the previous model and was discontinued in 2015.
The iPad Air 2
In 2014, Apple released the iPad Air 2, which featured a thinner design, an A8X processor, and 2 GB of RAM. It also introduced a Touch ID sensor and a gold color option.
The iPad Mini 4
The iPad Mini 4 was released in 2015 and featured a thinner design, an A8 processor, and 2 GB of RAM. It also introduced a gold color option and improved camera quality.
The iPad Pro
In 2015, Apple released the iPad Pro, which featured a larger 12.9-inch display, an A9X processor, and 4 GB of RAM. It also introduced the Apple Pencil, making it a popular choice for artists and creatives.
The iPad 5th Generation
The fifth-generation iPad was released in 2017 and featured a 9.7-inch display, an A9 processor, and 2 GB of RAM. It also introduced support for the Apple Pencil, making it a more affordable option for those who wanted to use the stylus.
The iPad 6th Generation
The sixth-generation iPad was released in 2018 and featured a 9.7-inch display, an A10 processor, and 2 GB of RAM. It also introduced support for the Apple Pencil, making it a popular choice for students and professionals.
The iPad Pro 2nd Generation
In 2017, Apple released the second-generation iPad Pro, which featured a 10.5-inch display, an A10X processor, and 4 GB of RAM. It also introduced ProMotion technology, which allowed for a smoother and more responsive display.
The iPad Pro 3rd Generation
The third-generation iPad Pro was released in 2018 and featured an 11-inch or 12.9-inch display, an A12X processor, and up to 6 GB of RAM. It also introduced Face ID, making it the first iPad to have this feature.
The iPad Mini 5th Generation
In 2019, Apple released the fifth-generation iPad Mini, which featured a 7.9-inch display, an A12 processor, and 3 GB of RAM. It also introduced support for the Apple Pencil, making it a popular choice for those who wanted a smaller iPad with stylus capabilities.
The iPad Air 3rd Generation
The third-generation iPad Air was also released in 2019 and featured a 10.5-inch display, an A12 processor, and 3 GB of RAM. It also introduced support for the Apple Pencil and a Smart Connector, making it a more versatile option for users.
The Newest iPad Generation: iPad Pro 4th Generation
The newest iPad generation is the iPad Pro 4th generation, which was released in 2020. It features an 11-inch or 12.9-inch display, an A12Z processor, and up to 6 GB of RAM. It also has a LiDAR scanner, making it a popular choice for augmented reality applications.
Compared to the previous iPad Pro 3rd generation, the 4th generation has a faster processor, improved camera quality, and a LiDAR scanner. It also has a new Magic Keyboard with a trackpad, making it a more versatile option for those who want to use their iPad as a laptop replacement.
Which iPad Is Right for You?
With so many different iPad models and generations available, it can be challenging to determine which one is right for you. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:
Budget
The first thing to consider is your budget. The newest iPad Pro 4th generation is the most expensive option, while the older models, such as the iPad 6th generation, are more affordable.
Intended Use
Think about how you plan to use your iPad. If you need a device for basic tasks like browsing the internet and checking emails, an older model may suffice. However, if you plan to use your iPad for more demanding tasks like graphic design or video editing, the newest iPad Pro may be the best choice.
Size
The size of the iPad is also an important factor to consider. If you want a more compact device, the iPad Mini or iPad Air may be the best option. However, if you want a larger display for watching videos or working on projects, the iPad Pro may be a better choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the newest iPad generation is the iPad Pro 4th generation, which was released in 2020. It features a faster processor, improved camera quality, and a LiDAR scanner, making it a popular choice for those who want a powerful and versatile device.
When deciding which iPad is right for you, consider your budget, intended use, and size preferences. With the right iPad, you can enjoy all the features and benefits of this innovative device.
