It seems Apple isn’t stopping there, though; rumors suggest it could be adding an even larger iPad Pro to the line-up. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said in a newsletter in December that the new iPad Pro could launch in March 2024.
The rumor of a larger-screened iPad started with Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman back in June 2021. He wrote that Apple was considering making iPads with larger displays, but not to expect anything for a few years. Display analyst Ross Young also claimed in 2022 that a 14.1-inch iPad Pro model was in development, and that “early 2023” was a likely release schedule. The current LED (on the 10.9-inch model) and mini-LED (on the 12.9-inch iPad Pro) are to be replaced by OLED, according to Ming-Chi Kuo in November 2023.
Back in December 2022, Display analyst Ross Young suggested that Apple is planning to move the entire iPad line to OLED by 2024. This matches what Gurman wrote (in January 2023) when he predicted that “an updated design and OLED screens” would be coming to the iPad in the spring of 2024. In addition, leaker Yeux1122 has claimed that Apple is in negotiations with LG, Samsung, and Chinese companies for active matrix OLEDs (AMOLEDs). At the moment, these are the starting prices for each model in the current iPad Pro range. If Apple moves to OLED screens and introduces a larger iPad Pro we may see a price hike. A tweet from June 2022 by Majin Bu suggested that the 14-inch iPad Pro would contain an M2 processor, 16GB of RAM and 512GB of base storage.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman indicated in a September 2023 newsletter that Apple is planning a new aluminium Magic Keyboard with a larger trackpad, that will be released alongside the M3 iPad Pro. We’ll update this article as more details are revealed, so check back regularly to see what we dig up.
How many Generations of iPads are there?
This article provides an overview of the different iterations, advancements, and transformative features that have shaped the iPad lineup into the versatile and powerful range of devices we know today. The iPads offer a lot of major upgrades compared to regular laptops in terms of size, design, portability and battery life expectancy.
With strong performance specifications and innovation enhancements such as Face ID, users can work faster on different tasks while being able to take their device anywhere they go with ease – ideal for working professionals on-the-go or leisurely learners at home searching online textbooks or taking notes on their devices efficiently without having to worry about battery life expiring anytime soon during intense usage periods The other popular product from Apple is the iPad mini which is a smaller version of their regular iPads but offers most of the features of their larger counterparts including single button accessing for switching between apps and connecting to Wi-Fi networks quickly and easily along with an 8 MP camera on select models for better clarity when taking pictures or taking video calls over Skype or FaceTime etcetera.
The 6th Gen iPad Pro was recently unveiled with both a 12.9-inch and 11-inch variant, allowing consumers to pick which size best suits their needs. They introduced higher-resolution Retina displays and improved processors, enhancing the visual experience and overall performance.
iPad Pro (3rd generation): Launched in 2018, this version introduced a redesigned form factor, Face ID, and updated performance. The 10.2-inch Retina display grants crystal clear visuals for streaming videos and browsing the internet, while the Apple A13 Bionic processor creates smooth transitions between applications. And connectivity wise, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth allow for communication between two devices as well as online access, while a Lightning connector provides data transfers.
For those looking for a cutting edge breakthrough in tablet performance who don’t want to snag the latest version or break their budget, Apple’s ninth generation iPad is a great option that offers plenty of power but at an affordable price. Apple has captivated the world with not one, not two, but a whopping nine generations of the iconic regular iPad model, leaving us in awe as we enter the year 2022. Notably, Apple has discontinued all generations preceding the 2021 iPad due to capability restrictions it had compared to newer versions of the device.
In addition to these regular iPad models, Apple has also released several variations of the product like their 7th Generation Mini 4 which debuted in 2015 with a 7.9 inch display and 2048×1536 resolution IPS LCD screen along with iOS 9 being preloaded onto it at launch time. The latest 5th generation Air boasts incredible specs and still remains pretty portable at 8.5mm thick and 454g light. Although it doesn’t provide top-tier specs like its siblings, it makes up by offering excellent value for money with its 10.2 inch screen and great performance all-in-all; a bargain that won’t break the bank which perhaps may be an ideal choice if you won’t use too many demanding apps and just want an iPad experience in general without having to dig deep into your wallet. If you just need it for general internet browsing and productivity tasks such as checking emails or creating documents then an earlier model can suffice.
The latest generation iPads often come with only incremental improvement in performance over their predecessors so when budget is a factor one should look at older models instead since they will still have sufficient power even relative to their newer counterparts. Furthermore upgrading an older device may also involve finding one which has had recent repairs done, such as replacing damaged parts or changing things like the battery or the display panel; all of which can improve its performance without losing any features.
iPad Pro (3rd generation)
The third generation iPad Pro also premiered a new design, with a screen that covers more of the front face, and has rounded corners. The redesigned iPad Pro was announced on October 30, 2018,[3][4] during an Apple Special Event at the Howard Gilman Opera House in Brooklyn, New York. [6][7] These devices are the first iPads to feature a USB Type-C connector, replacing Apple’s proprietary Lightning connector, and both devices gained eSIM for the first time (which replaced the proprietary embedded Apple SIM in the previous generation). [9][10] Unlike iPhone models featuring Face ID until iOS 16, the third-generation iPad Pro can unlock in any orientation.
[12] The switch to a USB-C connector received a mixed response; easier external monitor support and more universal device charging were added at the cost of extra dongles to use older cables and headphones. [13] Some reviewers noted that although the hardware updates are great steps forward, iOS’s limitations, including the lack of external storage capabilities, which was addressed with the iPadOS 13 update,[14] prevents the iPad Pro from competing against traditional computers.
[17][18] Nelson concluded that the “two weakest points [were] right dead center on either side of the iPad Pro, [and] the crack happened at the very poorly placed microphone hole and the new Apple Pencil 2 charging duct”. Apple responded to these reports quickly, asserting that this is normal and a non-issue,[20] a response which has been criticized by many.
The best iPads in 2023: the 5 best ones you should buy
Still, Apple provides an abundance of choice here, and with so many different versions — and nearly annual updates — it can be tricky to know which one is the best to get. All of Apple’s iPads are pretty great, and they’re each designed with a slightly different audience in mind, so it’s hard to pick a single one as “the best.”
It’s a fantastic choice that should satisfy the needs of most people, with a wealth of performance and features at a surprisingly affordable price. The eight-core GPU delivers incredible graphics, and the 16-core Neural Engine and 8GB of RAM equate to fast processing and rendering, which is noticeable when performing tasks like photo and video editing.
It’s already arguably more power than most people need on a tablet, but it also means you’ll be able to enjoy top performance for years to come. Though the iPad Air lacks Face ID, you still have a gorgeous 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display that takes up the majority of the front due to thin bezels.
For biometric authentication, the iPad Air (2022) continues the trend of using a Touch ID sensor in the side button. More significantly, the front-facing 12MP camera provides great quality for video calls and also includes Apple’s Center Stage feature that keeps the focus on you when you’re moving around, and automatically expands the view when friends and family gather around. The iPad Air (2022) starts at $600 for 64GB on the Wi-Fi model, but you’re likely better off taking the next step up to the 256GB version, which sells for $749. The iPad (2021) may be the previous generation, but it still offers great performance with a very affordable price tag. While it’s the previous generation of the base model iPad, it’s still a very reliable and solid choice — and you get a lot of bang for your buck. It starts at 64GB of storage, which should be enough for most people who just want a basic iPad for doing things like checking email, sending messages, FaceTime calls, and perhaps some games.
The latest 2021 refresh brought it back into line with iPad Air, which led the way with a big redesign in 2020. The iPad mini (2021) gains a larger 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display and eliminates the home button found in its predecessor. The A15 delivers plenty of power and fast performance, so the iPad mini will be able to handle whatever you may throw at it, including photo and video editing, as well as graphic-intensive games.
iPad mini (2021) supports the second-generation Apple Pencil, and you can always pair it up with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse to turn it into a lightweight workhorse.
Back in December 2022, analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claimed that Apple was working on a new iPad mini that would be released in 2023 or 2024. The rumors indicate that the next-generation iPad mini would retain the same design as the current model, but it would come with a faster chip.
2022’s big iPad uses a mini-LED panel — what Apple calls a Liquid Retina XDR Display. With 10,000 custom-designed mini-LEDs grouped into 2,500 local dimming zones that can be individually controlled, it can output stronger colors and deeper blacks than any other tablet on the market.
This means a display that not only looks gorgeous but can also meet the demanding needs of professional photo and video editors who need precision color accuracy.
All of this extra power and the large screen means the iPad Pro 12.9-inch can handle nearly anything a modern laptop can do, up to and including some hefty video editing. The larger size means it won’t be as portable or easily stowed away as the 11-inch model, but if you need room to breathe, you’ll welcome those extra 1.9 inches. It packs in Apple’s A14 chip — the same one used in the iPhone 12 — which offers more than enough performance for all but the most demanding power users, and most folks will be hard-pressed to find a speed difference between this and the latest M2-equipped iPad Pro.
Like the iPad Air (2022), it features a more expansive 10.9-inch screen and a Touch ID sensor in the side button. While the iPad (2022) is no slouch in the performance department, it’s a bit more basic when it comes to the display and accessory support.
You don’t get the higher-quality, anti-reflective laminated display found on the higher-end models, but it also offers a unique landscape camera that’s great for video calling, with the same Center Stage feature found on the rest of Apple’s iPad lineup to make sure that your video calls stay focused on you. That won’t be a problem for most folks, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re planning to do any serious drawing or looking for a more full-featured laptop replacement.
The iPad (2022) starts at $449 for a 64GB version, making it an affordable and well-rounded tablet for families and everyday casual use. That’s because Apple supports them with software updates for years to come, similar to how it does with the iPhone lineup.
If you’ve used an iPhone before, then the iPad works pretty much the same way, except iPadOS is made for larger screens with multitasking capabilities. This makes for a 120Hz refresh rate on the display — giving you much smoother scrolling, animations, and even better responsiveness.
Tasks you do will happen faster on an iPad with an M-Series chip versus one with the previous A-Series, especially when it comes to photo and video editing and processing. Keep in mind that if you are coming from Android, you should be able to bring over most of your data to the iPad, like contacts, calendars, and email.
These are hefty chunks of change, and once you commit to an iPad and its accessories, they’ll only work with certain models. Even though Apple offers iPad models with cellular support, this is used solely for transferred data when you’re away from Wi-Fi.
Of course, there’s also the usual assortment of third-party messaging apps that you can use with your iPad, from Facebook Messenger to WhatsApp. We rigorously test all the iPads we receive, living with them for extended periods of time to learn just how they perform in real-world settings. This means working on them, playing games, watching TV and movies, reading e-books, taking photos, capturing video, and using all of the latest and most demanding apps. In other words, we use them exactly as you would use them, and while we naturally value innovative and quirky features, we also love tablets that simply get the basics right.
Using them regularly also means we learn the particularities of each iPad we test, including their weakness and strengths, allowing us to make informed recommendations. Apple will continue to provide support for these through iPadOS software updates for at least several years after your purchase.
iPad Pro
Watch apps and widgets expand on the Home Screen as you move over them.
iPad generations: all iPad models in December 2023
So our recommendations here are backed up by our findings – you can read how we test iPads to learn about our process. To save you time, we start with a quick list of the top iPads you can buy right now.
The camera is amazing, and the support for ProRes video capture means it’s like carrying a mini studio around with you. It is also eye-wateringly expensive, which will be prohibitive to many – it’ll only be serious iPad users that make the leap into buying the new addition to the range.
It offered the most computing power available in an Apple tablet, the finest display, and the fastest user experience. It was the flagship model, the best of the best, and though it may no longer have the title, the 5th-generation iPad Pro is still a beast of a tablet.
It also comes in two sizes (an 11-inch model and a 12.9-inch version), giving you great options for screen real estate. With this launch, Apple made its mid-range tablet a whole lot more pro-like, giving it the same M1 processor as the 2021 iPad Pros. When we reviewed the new tablet, we found that the chip combined with a superb 1640 x 2360 Liquid Retina IPS LCD screen means the iPad Air is now well and truly an iPad Pro-lite at a more affordable price – although only just, because the price difference is now really very close unless you find a discount.
The 64GB storage offered in the base device is rather small, so you’ll probably want to go for the 256GB version if you’re handling a lot of media. Despite the release of the 5th-generation iPad Air, the 4th-generation model from 2020 is still a fine tablet and might be more likely to come in for discounts now that it’s been superseded. When we reviewed this tablet, we were impressed by the level of power and performance on offer, and appreciated how the Magic Keyboard compatibility made using it feel so different compared to what had come before.
As we mentioned in our review, with this one you have to deal with artifacts of yesteryear such as compatibility with the first-generation Apple Pencil, rather than the much-improved second version. It has the same A14 Bionic chip, the same screen resolution and the same 12MP rear camera, making it feel remarkably familiar.
It works with a new Magic Keyboard Folio, offers 5G instead of 4G, and uses the 1st-generation Apple Pencil instead of the newer 2nd-generation version. Our initial thoughts were that if you want to pay that much, why not look at 2020’s iPad Air and be able to use the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil?
However, when going hands-on, our reviewer loved the tablet’s bigger, brighter screen and the amount of power available for complex tasks. The lack of 2nd-generation Apple Pencil support is annoying, but the tablet feels luxurious and runs Procreate like a dream.
While it looks almost identical to 2020’s iteration, the 2021 model boasts Apple’s TrueTone tech, allowing the screen to adjust to ambient lighting wherever you are. The camera is also upgraded, growing to 12MP with Apple’s Center Stage features, first seen on the 2020 iPad Pro.
Other than that, the 2021 model has the same 10.2in 1620×2160 LCD screen as the 8th-generation version, with a maximum 500 nits of brightness, which will be just fine for most users. It’s since been superseded by the 2021 and 2022 models, but this could be a good buy if you find it on sale since it still offers everything you need for the core iPad experience.
To our eyes, it has started to look a little outdated with its chunky bezels and Home button, but there’s no doubting its capabilities. It comes with an A15 Bionic chip, a USB-C port (at last), and with 5G connectivity, we feel that it’s now more on par with the iPad Air.
Added to that, it now supports the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil, making it a good choice for creatives on the move. The front camera also maxes out at 12MP, but comes with an ultra-wide lens and the Centre Stage feature the higher-end iPads now sport. Apple iPad mini (2019, 5th Gen) The perfect size and price for an iPad to use on the move Our expert review: Average Amazon review: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ Specifications Display size: 7.9in Processor: Apple A12 Bionic chip Storage options : 64GB, 256GB Apple Pencil compatibility: 1st generation Today’s Best Deals Check Amazon Reasons to buy + Small and light + Affordable price Reasons to avoid – Old design – No Smart Keyboard support Think of this tablet as a more capable Kindle or Kobo for reading or watching content on the go, although it has Apple’s A12 Bionic chip so its performance is by no means weak. Why you can trust Creative Bloq Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Coming in 11in and 12.9in versions, this is the iPad generation that currently offers the best specs in terms of sheer power and capability.
You may find an older iPad at a cheaper price in a sale, but the latest model offers such a boost in performance that we’d generally recommend paying a couple hundred dollars more to get more longevity from your device. Having said that, the previous iPads models are still great tablets, and many users won’t notice the small differences in loading times.
The firm since released a second generation of the Apple Pencil with magnetic charging and tap controls. Since all iPads look pretty alike, it can be confusing to figure out which one you have, especially if you were gifted one second-hand.
A reliable way to check is find your iPad’s model number – you can do this either by looking on the back, or by navigating to ‘Settings’, then ‘General’, then ‘About’. If you’re only looking for a tablet to use for general internet browsing, checking emails and docs, and watching entertainment, you really don’t need an iPad from the latest generation, and you might want to save money by going for an earlier model.
We test and review all the latest Apple products here at Creative Bloq, as well as tablets from other companies, so you can trust our guide is objective and unbiassed. Our testers are experts in their field and have years of experience reviewing iPad and other tablets.
iPad Pro (6th generation)
The 12.9-inch model, in contrast, boasts mini LED HDR display called the Liquid Retina XDR display built in with a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, full screen brightness of 1000 nits and a peak brightness of 1600 nits (HDR), which is the same as the 12.9-inch model of the 5th generation. Both models support True Tone, ProMotion, 120 Hz variable refresh rate, and P3 wide color gamut.
The position and angle of Pencil can now be detected up to 12 millimetres (0.47 in) above the screen (“Pencil hover”), which can be used by apps for features such as previewing brush and pen strokes, and with existing hover interactions intended for mouse/touchpad input.
The sixth-generation iPad Pro received mixed responses from critics. Some reviewers said that the front-facing camera is not in a landscape position, compared to the 10th-generation iPad,[9][15] while others criticized the outdated Magic Keyboard, lacking the function keys used on the 10th-generation iPad. [16] Some reviewers praised the Apple Pencil hover, fast performance, battery life, and the display.
Wikipedia
The second-generation iPad Pro, unveiled in June 2017, had an upgraded A10X Fusion chip and swapped the 9.7-inch screen for a larger 10.5-inch display. The sixth- and current-generation iPad Pro, introduced in October 2022, includes the M2 chip, Apple Pencil Hover, and ProRes video. Both sizes employed refresh rates up to 120 Hz, better HDR and TrueTone white balancing.
It offers a redesigned camera module, an A12Z processor, 128 GB[a] minimum storage, LiDAR Scanner (<5m distance), and support for the Magic Keyboard with a trackpad that is sold separately. Smart Keyboard docks are specific with iPad Pro using the visible $connector: magnetic with three pins that provides data transfer and power. [27][28] During the keynote, Apple demonstrated drawing, managing publication layout, and document annotation. [32] It is similar in design and specifications to the first model, but without the detachable connector, and part of the stylus is flattened to inhibit rolling. These adapters utilize the new USB-C connector, which allows the iPad to connect with HDMI cables, USB ports,[34] and read SD cards.
[35] Using an HDMI cable, users can connect their iPad to another display, such as a computer, laptop, or television. The USB and SD card support allows user to transfer and save files to and from external memory storage devices. The Magic Keyboard features the first trackpad designed for an iPad, a hinge to adjust the viewing angle and includes a USB-C port for pass-through charging. The Magic Keyboard provided a proper typing experience and supplied a good trackpad bundled with excellent build quality.
[38] With the launch of 5th generation of iPad Pro on 20 April 2021, a white color has also been added to the Apple Store. However, he criticized the cost of both the unit and its accessories, while noting its slightly slower processor with less RAM compared to the larger 12.9-inch model. [43] Matt Swider from TechRadar complimented the easy handling, large 256 GB configuration and True Tone display, but was upset about the high starting price. [44] Gareth Beavis gave a positive review, commending the expansive screen and audio quality but stated that the battery life could be made longer.
The iPad Pro’s 9.7-inch version set a record among all currently released tablets tested in color accuracy, screen reflectance, peak brightness, contrast rating in high ambient light, and smallest color variation. Max Parker from TrustedReviews and Gareth Beavis from TechRadar both praised the 10.5-inch model’s high-quality audio and performance, though both critics noted that it was expensive.
Reviewing the 12.9 inch second-generation iPad Pro, Lauren Goode of The Verge complimented the quality camera, A10X processor and large screen size, but argued that the device could have been cheaper. The third generation iPad Pro models were praised for their better displays, slimmed bezels, the addition of Face ID and general speed as well as CPU improvements.
Ben Sin from Forbes noted that despite the LCD screen, the 120 Hz refresh rate makes it feel more smooth.
[50] The switch to USB-C connectors received mixed reviews; external monitor support and device charging were added at the cost of extra dongles to use older cables and headphones. [51] Some reviewers noted that although the hardware updates are great steps forward, iOS’s limitations, including the lack of external storage capabilities, prevents the third generation from competing against computers. Users on forum boards have reported the iPad bending after a few days of use, or after carrying it around in a backpack.
[55][56] Nelson concluded that the “two weakest points [were] right dead center on either side of the iPad Pro, [and] the crack happened at the very poorly placed microphone hole and the new Apple Pencil 2 charging duct”. Apple responded to these reports quickly, asserting that this is normal and a non-issue,[58] a response that has been criticized. The LIDAR sensor which Apple added for increased AR capability was touted as a feature only a handful of customers will use. [65] The Verge has criticized that they should have had multiuser support like the Mac but they gave positive reviews to the Mini-LED and cameras.
Apple iPad Pro (6th Gen, 2022) Review: Another Minor Update
Yes, you get all the standout features from its predecessors, like the mini LED display (on the 12.9-inch model), a 120-Hz refresh rate, quad speakers for richer sound, Face ID, and a lidar sensor. It could’ve added a few of the same upgrades it gave to the new 10th-gen iPad ($449), like the landscape selfie camera, support for the revamped Magic Keyboard Folio, and maybe snazzier color choices. Many of the features are also the same, like ProMotion support, 5G connectivity if you opt for the cellular model, and the dual-camera setup with the lidar sensor for augmented reality apps. Apple introduced this last year, so it’s puzzling that it couldn’t bring this superior screen to the smaller iPad Pro model for feature parity.
I’ve largely only used this new hover feature in the Notes app to preview color combinations while doodling, but it’s a smart and helpful addition for anyone that frequently reaches for the stylus.
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