A new iPad that is intended for beginners has been announced by Apple. The new model adopts the thin-bezel design of more expensive versions, switching to USB-C, doing away with the headphone port, and adding a fingerprint scanner to the sleep/wake button. You may anticipate a typical 10.9-inch display with True Tone color correction and a 2,360 x 1,640 resolution. There is a twist with the 12MP ultra-wide front camera, however. This iPad is the first to include a selfie camera that is landscape-oriented, making it much better for group chats and laptop-like usage.
The tablet supports cutting-edge networking technologies including WiFi 6 and (on cellular variants) 5G and employs the same A14 Bionic processor as the original iPad Air. There is also a newer 12MP back camera. Sadly, this is not the best blank canvas for creatives on a tight budget. You can only pair and charge the first-generation Pencil, and you must use the bundled USB-C to Pencil adaptor (which costs $9 if you already own a Pencil).
At least you’ll have a little less expensive official choice for using the iPad as a notepad. Similar to the more expensive Magic Keyboard, a new $249 Magic Keyboard Folio includes full-size keys (including function keys) and a trackpad. However, it does not have a clever floating design. Instead, the tablet is supported while you work with an integrated kickstand. The iPad can be detached from the magnetic connection quite easily, and the Smart Connector saves you the troublesome charging and pairing processes that often accompany these keyboards.
The redesigned iPad base is already available for pre-order and will be in stores on October 26. However, expect a price increase. The price of the update ranges from $449 for a 64GB WiFi variant to $599 for cellular. The last-generation iPad is still available from Apple for the same $329 price as previously, which is a sizable increase. Consider this more as a reduced iPad Air for individuals who don’t need an M1 chip or support for the second-generation Pencil.
If you have an older model, don’t worry about losing out on software features. On October 24th, Apple will finally release iPadOS 16 after a little delay. To utilize the new platform, which comes with enhancements like Stage Manager multitasking, you’ll need at least an iPad or iPad mini from the fifth generation, an iPad Air from the third generation, or any iPad Pro.
