It’s hard to believe that more than 14 years have passed since Steve Jobs unveiled the first generation iPad.The evolution of the iPad started on the stage in San Francisco when an Apple legend showed off the first iPad, previously called the iSlate, to the world.
During his keynote presentation, Jobs said that there was room for another type of device that would sit alongside the smartphone and the laptop, calling the iPad a “magical” device.
In 14 years, a lot has changed. We’ve rounded up just 10 moments that have major role in ipad’s evolution.
iPad 2 launch
Apple followed up the original iPad with the iPad 2 in 2011, offering a device that was 33% thinner and 15% lighter than the previous iPad, with an A5 processor and new white color.
4G LTE
Apple added 4G LTE connectivity with the third-generation iPad in March 2012, allowing users to take their tablets with them wherever they went. It revolutionized the way we work.
iPad Mini
Apple introduced the iPad Mini in 2012, offering price-conscious consumers access to a powerful, affordable tablet. Today, the Mini is just as loved as it was back then, with the fifth generation, released in 2019, offering cellular data and support for the Apple Pencil.
iPad Air
Apple launched the stunning iPad Air in 2013, offering a 20% thinner and 27% lighter tablet than the previous iPad, and slimmer bezels, unlocking more precious screen real estate.
Touch ID
Apple added Touch ID to the iPad in 2014, alongside a Retina display and A8X processor, giving professional users more tools to create stunning artwork, games, apps, and stories.
Apple Pencil
Though first criticized when it launched, the Apple Pencil’s release in 2015 gave creators another tool to draw, sketch, take notes, and transform their workflows. Today, it’s one of Apple’s most iconic products, and the second-generation Pencil offers even greater features.
iPad Pro
Apple showed the world it meant business in 2015, introducing the original iPad Pro with more speakers, and support for new Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboards, offering a genuine alternative to laptops and notebooks for the first time. “What’s a computer?” people asked.
iPad overhaul
In 2018, Apple launched the third-generation iPad Pro, overhauling its design and putting the pro back into the iPad. It introduced slimmer bezels, Face ID, a USB-C connector, an A12X Bionic processor, and up to 1TB of storage – the ultimate choice for professional tablet users.
Seventh-generation iPad
Apple overhauled the iPad family in 2019, introducing a seventh-generation iPad with an impressive 10.2-inch Retina display, and support for Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboards.
iPadOS
Apple took the brave decision to fork iOS and iPadOS in 2019, the clearest sign yet that the company was putting its focus back on its iPad users. New iPad-only features now make the tablet an indispensable tool for business and leisure, and new innovations continue to come.
Summery of the iPad Evolution
The iPad, released 14 years ago, transformed how we engage with technology. It was initiated as a media consumption device and transformed into a powerful tool for creativity, productivity, and enjoyment. The Apple Pencil, iPadOS, and other design innovations are all significant milestones.
What’s your favorite memory in the iPad Evolution?
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