Introduced in 2010, the iPad was Apple’s “next big thing” following the success of the iPhone. Software wise, it runs iOS, the same mobile operating system that powers the iPhone, with features and optimizations only available on the tablet computer. However, come this fall iPad will gain its own operating system, iPadOS.
iPad is currently available in five Retina display screen sizes: 7.9-inch, 9.7-inch, 10.5-inch, 11-inch, and 12.9-inch. The 12.9″ and 11″ Pro models were last updated in 2018. The 10.5″ Air was updated in March of 2019. The mini was last updated in 2019 as well.
The tablet is at the heart of Apple’s education strategy. For enterprise customers who deploy it in mass, they use mobile device management products like Jamf and Apple Configurator to manage them.
It’s pitched as an “everything machine” in that it can be used for work, play, and everything in between. Official accessories include the Apple Pencil, Smart Keyboard, and Apple-branded cases. The iPad Pro models support the Apple Pencil 2, and the non-Pro models support the Apple Pencil 1.
If you are considering an iPad, but aren’t sure which model you should pick, we’ve got a handy comparison to help you decide. Are you looking to buy one? Check out the latest deals at 9to5Toys.
