iPad Release Countdown 2010‑2025: All Models Sorted Chronologically

Apple’s Tablet Triumph

Apple has long been synonymous with the iPhone and Mac, as well as a revenue model that thrives on services. Yet there is one category where the company has reigned without rival: tablets.

Early Days and the First iPad

In 2010, co‑founder Steve Jobs unveiled the first iPad on stage. He challenged the idea of a “third category” of personal devices, asserting that the iPad was “more intimate than a laptop and so much more capable than a smartphone.” The launch marked a pivotal moment in device history.

Key Takeaways

• Intimacy – smaller than a laptop, yet more powerful in function.
• Capability – outperformed traditional smartphones in both size and power.
• Innovation – opened a new market segment that would evolve rapidly.

Expanding the Tablet Formula

Over the next decade, the iPad steadily cemented itself as a robust third category. It not only entertained users with films and games but also empowered complex creative work. Each new iteration sharpened the balance of performance and portability.

Evolution Highlights

• Hardware – progressively lighter yet stronger, with advanced processors.
• Software – iPadOS refined user experience, integrating multitasking and native apps.
• Display – high‑resolution screens designed for both media consumption and professional tasks.

iPadOS 26 and the Future

Today, iPadOS 26 exemplifies the tablet’s mature form. It offers unparalleled versatility, allowing users to seamlessly switch between entertainment, productivity, and creative workflows.

What Makes It Stand Out

• Performance Boost – modern CPUs and GPUs for demanding applications.
• Fluid UI – intuitive interfaces that adapt across tasks.
• Enhanced Connectivity – faster Wi‑Fi, 5G, and robust app ecosystem.

In sum, the iPad has evolved from a curious experiment into an indispensable tool that marries pleasure with practicality. Its history illustrates Apple’s capacity to innovate while keeping user experience at the heart of its success.

The 1st generation iPad – 2010

The Origin of an iPad Legend

The very first iPad burst onto the scene as a chunky slate, framed in metallic, encased in wide bezels, and graced with a 9.7‑inch display. During those early days it was a pioneer without cellular abilities, a rear camera, multitasking, or an official keyboard.

A Revolutionary Price Point

• Apple priced the debut model at $499, branding it as “a magical and revolutionary device at an unbelievable price.”
• The A4 chip delivered snappy performance, and the launch triggered the first dedicated SDK devoted to tablets.

Special Touch‑Optimized Software

Apple also dropped a version of iWork that was tailored to the iPad’s touch interface. Back then, the Pages, Keynote, and Numbers apps each cost $9.99; today they appear preinstalled on every iPad.

Related Insight

In a related discussion, Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro starting price could rise by $50, yet it still offers a real discount.

Reimagining the iPad

Digital Trends’ Take

• Ever evolving uses
• Daily life integration
• Not just the blank ones

iPad (2nd generation) – 2011

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iPad 2 Release Review

Apple unveiled the second generation iPad, often referred to as the iPad 2.

Key Upgrade

• The new dual‑core Apple A5 chip doubled the device’s overall performance.
• Apple emphasized that this chip would noticeably enhance multitasking.

Hands‑On Experience

When Digital Trends tested the tablet, they found it felt more responsive, especially when running demanding applications such as GarageBand.

Apple Reimagines the iPad with Dual Camera Innovation

Apple’s latest iPad overhaul goes beyond just a slimmer, lighter design. The new model now sports a rear camera, marking the first iPad to carry two cameras.

Enhanced Visual Interaction for Video Calls

• Video Call Clarity: Digital Trends noted the nearly 10‑inch display offers a clearer view of your conversation partner.
• Camera Duality: The rear camera complements the front lens, enabling richer video call experiences.

Unchanged Pricing Amid Big App Library Expansion

• Price Stability: Apple retained the original iPad’s price point.
• App Library Growth: The new model bundles an app catalog of roughly 350,000 titles—substantially larger than the original iPad’s offerings.

Legacy Compatibility Issues Resolved

• Flash Support: The earlier iPad faced criticism for lacking Flash in Safari.
• NFC Support: NFC support remained absent, a missed opportunity in earlier releases.

iPad (3rd generation) – 2012

Redefining the iPad Experience

The third-generation iPad marked a pivotal moment, stepping into a new era of visual excellence.

Retina Display: A New Visual Frontier

• Pitch-Perfect Pixels – The Retina display elevated the iPad’s view, delivering four times the pixel density of its predecessor.
• Ultra-Resolution Display – Apple boasted the device offered the highest resolution display ever seen on a mobile device, with an astounding 3.1 million pixels.
• Immersive Clarity – Every image, video, and interface benefitted from unparalleled sharpness, making every detail appear crystal‑clear.

Key Takeaway

With the Retina display at its core, the third-generation iPad redefined what a mobile screen could achieve.

Apple also upgraded it to a quad-core A5X processor that boosted the graphics performance significantly. Another key selling point was the new 5 megapixel iSight camera that let users record full-HD videos. And let’s not forget about 4G LTE support landing on Apple’s tablet, at last.

“For the first time, the new iPad feels like the device Steve Jobs promised two years ago. This is a capable post-PC device and should usher in another great year for tablets,” concluded Digital Trends’ review of the slate.

iPad (4th generation) and iPad Mini – 2012

iPad Mini Moment

Apple’s 2012 Launch

• pencil‑thin, paper‑light
• new design language with an aluminum shell
• host of impressive tricks

Apple’s 2012 iPad Lineup

iPad mini – The Small Powerhouse

• 9.7‑inch Retina display for vivid visuals
• A5 core powering smooth performance
• iSight camera enabling crystal‑clear selfies
• Next‑generation wireless hardware boosting faster speeds
• Retail launch at $329 in slate and silver editions

iPad fourth generation – A Brighter Future

• New A6X processor delivering double CPU and GPU power versus A5X
• Expanded cellular connectivity for broader coverage
• First Lightning connector adopting the latest port standard
• Price maintained at $329, ensuring value remains unchanged

iPad Air (1st generation) and iPad Mini 2 – 2013

Apple’s 2013 iPad Air Revolution

In 2013, Apple introduced the inaugural iPad Air, redefining the iPad as a premium computing device for the first time.

Key Design Advances

• Ultra‑thin profile – a slimmer form factor than any predecessor.
• Lightweight construction – the lightest full‑size tablet worldwide.
• Refined bezels – enhancing aesthetic appeal.

Performance Enhancements

• A7 64‑bit processor – unlocking advanced OpenGL ES capabilities for superior gaming.
• M7 motion coprocessor – boosting power efficiency and sensor integration.

Market Position

Apple priced the iPad Air at $599, maintaining affordability while elevating the device’s premium status.

iPad mini 2 Made a Splash

The second‑generation iPad mini hit the market at the same time as its sibling, both powered by the single A7 processor. This chip delivers four times the CPU speed compared to the original model.

• Ultra‑light body design.
• Crisp 7.9‑inch Retina display with higher pixel density.

iPad Air (2nd generation) and iPad Mini (3rd generation) – 2014

Apple’s 2014 Design Refresh

In 2014, Apple revisited its design philosophy. The second‑generation iPad Air incorporated a fingerprint sensor nestled inside the home button, a feature branded as TouchID. The update also improved the camera.

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Apple Unveils the New iPad, a Featherlight Cutting Edge

Apple’s latest iPad, measuring a mere 6.1 mm in thickness, redefines what a tablet can be. It’s a slender, lightweight marvel that fits comfortably in any pocket or hand.

Power Packed with the A8X Processor

The iPad is powered by the A8X chip, which delivers a 2.5× boost over its predecessor in graphics performance. Gamers and designers alike will notice the smoother rendering of high‑resolution images and the more fluid operation of demanding apps.

Retina Display with Anti‑Reflective Coating

• Retina display that offers stunning visual fidelity.
• Anti‑reflective coating that minimizes glare, allowing for clear vision even when outdoors.
• Improved color accuracy and higher contrast ratios for an immersive experience.

Why It Matters

Apple has set a new benchmark for tablets — a device that is thinner, lighter, and yet computationally superior. The combination of A8X graphics power and a glare‑free Retina display makes the iPad a compelling choice for the next generation of mobile creators and users.

Review of the iPad Mini 3

Digital Trends praised the tablet for outperforming every competitor in virtually every significant way. However, the third‑generation iPad Mini introduced only a new fingerprint sensor and a fresh gold hue, with little else to distinguish it.

Key Features

• Fingerprint sensor for secure authentication
• Gold finish for a sleek aesthetic
• Standard performance that meets everyday needs

Our Conclusion

The iPad Mini 3 is an impressive tablet that delivers on many fronts. Yet, the limited upgrades render it a costly waste of money.

iPad Pro (1st generation) and iPad mini (4th generation) – 2015

Apple Unveils the 12.9‑inch iPad Pro in 2015

Key Highlights

• Massive 12.9‑inch Retina Display – Apple’s largest tablet screen yet.
• A9X Processor – Powerful chip for smooth multitasking.
• Highest Resolution Display – Brighter, sharper visual experience.
• Apple Pencil Debut – New stylus for precision drawing and note‑taking.
• Keyboard for Tablet – Full‑sized keyboard enhances productivity.

Exploring the Latest iPad Lineup

Digital Trends evaluates the iPad Pro as the top choice among large tablets, citing its advanced features and sleek design. However, the premium price remains a concern. The base model starts at $799 and offers only 32 GB of storage, making it the most expensive option in the current marketplace.

Assessing the 4th‑Generation iPad Mini

The mini 4 shows only subtle changes. It keeps the familiar silhouette, the A8 processor, and adds a small upgrade to iOS 9. Digital Trends notes that anyone who desires a compact iPad and is willing to pay a fair price is unlikely to be disappointed. “If you truly want a small iPad and don’t mind spending money, you can’t go wrong with the Mini 4,” the review concludes.

iPad Pro (9.7-inch) – 2016

2016 Apple Innovation

A Return to Simpler, Bolder Design

Apple revisited its original philosophy by crafting devices that were both smaller and more powerful. The outcome was the 9.7‑inch iPad Pro, which featured an enhanced Retina display with higher brightness and True Tone technology to fine‑tune white balance.

Revealed: The $599 10‑inch iPad Redefines Value

Key Features

• Powered by the A9X processor
• Quad‑speaker system delivers immersive audio
• 12‑megapixel rear camera supports 4K video capture
• Complete Lightning accessory lineup enhances connectivity

Market Impact

Apple has lowered the flagship iPad price to just $599 in the U.S., making the 10‑inch model a more accessible entry point.

Digital Trends Review Highlights

Digital Trends praises the tablet’s power, sound quality, vibrant pink hue, and camera readiness. However, the review cautions that it is not a bargain and does not replace a laptop.

iPad (5th generation) — 2017

Apple’s Resurgence with the iPad

Re‑introducing the Vanilla iPad

After a long period dominated by the Air, Pro, and mini models, Apple shifted focus back to the iPad.

Strategic Positioning

• Tagged as the brand’s most affordable large‑screen tablet.
• Leveraged affordability to capture a broad consumer segment.
• Drove a significant uptick in overall iPad sales.

Market Impact

The move proved a smash hit, revitalizing demand for the classic iPad and solidifying its status as a staple in Apple’s tablet lineup.

Revamped Budget Tablet with 9.7‑inch Retina Display

Launching in 2015, the fifth‑generation iPad packed a 9.7‑inch Retina screen, the A9 processor, an all‑metal chassis, upgraded front and rear cameras, and the familiar Touch ID button. All of this was available for just $329, marking a notable return to form for a budget‑friendly slate.

Key Features

• Display – 9.7‑inch Retina, 2048×1536 resolution
• Processor – A9 dual‑core, 2 GHz
• Build – All‑metal frame, 4‑gram weight
• Camera – Front 1.2‑MP, Rear 8‑MP, 1080p video
• Security – Touch ID on home button

Consumer Verdict

Digital Trends described the tablet as the everyman’s device, saying:

“The table can cater to media consumption, web browsing, and also support light to moderately‑heavy work tasks while ensuring smooth performance.”

Conclusion

Offering a full range of media and productivity capabilities for a modest price, the fifth‑generation iPad exemplified a smart budget option that did not omit any major components.

iPad Pro (10.5-inch) and iPad Pro (12.9-inch 2nd generation) — 2017

Apple’s Swift iPad Pro Update of 2024

The Apple iPad Pro received a subtle tweak within the same calendar year: a modest increase in the screen’s physical dimensions.

Key Adjustment

• Screen Size Jump: from 9.7 inches to 10.5 inches.

Launch Context

This new size made its debut in tandem with the second-generation iPad Pro that showcased a 12.9-inch display. The remaining configuration components stayed effectively unchanged.

Apple Tablet Press Release

Display and Input Enhancements

The new tablets showcase Apple’s ProMotion technology, bumping the Retina display refresh rate to 120Hz for smoother visuals. Apple also refined the Apple Pencil latency, ensuring a more responsive drawing experience.

Hardware Specifications

• Powered by the A10X Fusion processor: six CPU cores paired with twelve GPU cores.
• Equipped with a high‑resolution 12‑megapixel rear camera featuring optical image stabilization (OIS).

Software and Multitasking Updates

• Introduced the redesigned Files application for better file management.
• Enhanced the Dock: users can now customize app placement and layout.
• Improved multitasking capabilities, enabling more efficient app switching.

iPad (6th generation) – 2018

Apple’s iPad Tease: The Paperback Puzzle Unveiled

The baseline iPad set a baseline buzz—now the sixth generation hits the marks again.

• Price plateau – the package zeroed out, consistent with earlier models.
• Pencil patch – the most affordable tablet finally embraces Apple Pencil support.
• Momentum carry‑on – the device carries forward the runway it built with its iPad predecessor.

What’s on the table? The latest edition brings a fresh angle:

• Touch‑first tablet – the tablet continues to focus on adding Picasso‑friendly handling.
• Balanced budget – the price point stays on track with competitiveness.
• Third‑generation pace – delivering a next step that lines up with a one‑year span of evolution.

In short, the new iPad shows how biting Apple Pencil support can unlock the newest generation’s potential while still staying under budget.

Apple’s iPad: A Classic Reimagined for the Modern Era

Fresh Hardware on the Inside

While it keeps the familiar iPad silhouette, the tablet now houses the A10 Fusion core paired with the M10 coprocessor, delivering a smooth, efficient experience for everyday tasks.

Software Smarts: iOS 11 Optimized for the Tablet

Apple’s iOS 11 brings a suite of optimizations tailored explicitly for the iPad, enhancing performance, stability, and the overall user experience.

Why the iPad Remains the “Best Tablet”

• $330 price point for a robust, multi-tasking device.
• High‑quality display that delivers stunning visuals.
• Seamless integration with the Apple Pencil, making it ideal for creative professionals.
• Continues to serve as the fallback “everyman” tablet for casual users.

Digital Trends’ Verdict

In Digital Trends’ analysis, the iPad is proclaimed the unrivaled tablet: “The best tablet is the iPad. Period.”

iPad Pro (11-inch) and iPad Pro (12.9-inch, 3rd generation) — 2018

Apple’s 2018 iPad Pro Reshaped

Apple^®’s tablet division pivoted once more in 2018, unveiling a line of iPad Pro models that redefined the device’s look and feel.

Key Design Evolution

• Thin Bezel Symmetry – The new iPad Pro embraced ultra‑thin, equal bezels around the screen, breaking away from the hefty edge frames of prior generations.
• Face ID Adoption – The fingerprint sensor gave way to a Face ID system, leveraging facial recognition over a traditional physical button.
• Removal of Touch ID Button – The iconic single button on the device’s side was eliminated, offering a cleaner, more streamlined side design.
• Expanded Storage Options – Storage capacities grew dramatically, with the Pro models offering up to 1TB of internal memory to accommodate larger media libraries and professional workloads.

Impact for Users

With its sleek, bezel‑thin aesthetic, Face ID technology, and robust storage, the 2018 iPad Pro placed a premium, professional tablet firmly in the hands of creative, business, and everyday users who demanded both performance and design.

The Latest iPad Pro Models Redefine Tablet Technology

Key Innovations Summarized

• Display Scaling: The 12.9‑inch and 11‑inch iPads now feature 5K resolution, supported by a new USB‑C 3.1 Gen 2 port.
• Processor Leap: Powered by the A12X Bionic, the chips deliver an average 90% performance boost over its predecessor.
• Connectivity Upgrade: Gigabit‑tier cellular connectivity replaces the older Lightning connector, aligning with the USB‑C standard.
• Software Enhancements: iOS 12 adds RAW image editing support and introduces the Shortcuts app.

Market Position and Consumer Insight

While the new iPads command a premium price tag, Digital Trends reviews editorial emphasis the tablets’ extensive capabilities, characterizing them as “worthwhile investments.”

iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad mini (5th generation), and iPad (7th generation) – 2019

Apple Reasserts Tablet Leadership in 2019

Apple’s 2019 tablet lineup delivered three high‑performance devices that reinforced the company’s dominance in the consumer tablet market.

New Titles Delivered in the First Half of the Year

• iPad Air – A refreshed mid‑range tablet that merged strong performance with a sleek design.
• iPad mini – A compact option that kept the key Apple Power features in a pocket‑friendly package.

Key Features Shared by Both Tablets

• A12 Bionic chip – Powers smooth multitasking and high‑resolution gaming.
• Gigabit‑class LTE and eSIM support – Ensures blazing mobile broadband connectivity.
• Upgraded camera modules – Improves photography quality for everyday moments.
• Retina display with True Tone technology – Delivers vibrant colors and a natural viewing experience.

Apple Pencil Compatibility on the iPad mini

Apple Pencil support on the iPad mini was a standout attribute that appealed to artists, note‑takers, and designers. Despite its smaller form factor, the mini retained the essential stylus functionality that many users expected.

Pricing Strategy Remaining Consistent

• iPad Air – Base price set at $499.
• iPad mini – Base price set at $399.

Apple’s pricing strategy aligned with its established level‑tier approach, balancing affordability with the performance and feature set that both tablet models offered.

Conclusion

Apple’s 2019 tablet releases reaffirmed the firm’s strong position in the tablet market, offering consumers a blend of performance, design, and functionality across a suite of devices that catered to a wide range of usage scenarios.

Apple expands the iPad lineup

A price that stays the same

$329 remains the asking price in the U.S., supporting Apple’s retail strategy.

Display that fans appreciate

• The 10.2‑inch Retina Display is a modest step up from the previous generation.
• It offers stylus support, allowing users to interact with content in a more natural way.

Performance that underpins the device

• It is powered by the A10 chip, delivering adequate processing for everyday tasks.

Connectivity that modernize the accessory ecosystem

• A physical Smart Connector is built into the device, ready to pair with Apple’s keyboard case for a seamless workflow experience.

iPad Pro (11-inch and 13.9-inch), iPad (8th generation), and iPad Air (4th generation) – 2020

2020: The iPad Revolution

Apple unleashed a major update for the iPad lineup. The journey began with the iPad Pro, which introduced several breakthroughs:

• Dual rear cameras for enhanced photography.
• LiDAR sensor enabling next‑generation spatial awareness.
• A12Z Bionic chip delivering powerful performance.
• Trackpad support in iPadOS, opening up new multitouch possibilities.
• Magnetic levitating keyboard offering a magnetic, floating typing experience.

These features marked a significant leap forward for the iPad family throughout 2020.

Apple Unveils a Fresh iPad with a Powerful A12 Bionic Chip

Apple has released a new version of the eighth‑generation iPad, maintaining the base model’s price at $329. While the tablet’s exterior remains unchanged, this update brings several noteworthy improvements.

Key Enhancements

• Robust A12 Bionic Chip – The iPad is now powered by the A12 Bionic processor, offering higher performance and better energy efficiency.
• Neural Engine Integration – For the first time, the entry‑level iPad includes Apple’s Neural Engine, enabling advanced machine‑learning capabilities for applications and games.
• Consistent Design – The tablet keeps its classic look, focusing on functional upgrades rather than aesthetic changes.

What This Means for Users

Apple’s decision to embed a powerful chip into the budget iPad signals a commitment to deliver strong performance across all price ranges. The inclusion of the Neural Engine opens doors for developers to create smart, responsive experiences even on entry‑level devices. With the price held steady, consumers can enjoy a capable iPad without a premium tag.

Final Thoughts

By equipping the iPad with the A12 Bionic chip and a Neural Engine, Apple has pushed the brand’s performance boundaries while keeping affordability. This update reaffirms that the iPad remains a versatile, powerful tablet that meets the needs of everyday users.

Apple unveils the dazzling new iPad

Design

The latest tablet embraces a clean monolithic aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the iPad Pro. The frame is uninterrupted, creating a sleek, modern look.

Color options

• Peppy new hues – Apple introduces bright, vibrant tones, a first in a long time.
• These colors add personality to the device and complement the overall design.

Hardware

• Chip – The tablet is powered by the A14 Bionic, Apple’s most advanced chip at the time.
• Touch ID – The sensor is integrated with the power button, providing quick, secure access.

iPad Pro (11-inch and 13-inch), iPad (9th generation), and iPad mini (6th generation) – 2021

Apple Keeps Raising the Tablet Bar

During 2021, Apple’s tablets didn’t stop gaining momentum. The company packed the iPad Pro with its own desktop‑class power chip – the M1 silicon – and added support for 5G connectivity, a brand‑new liquid‑retina XDR mini‑LED display, and a front camera feature called Center Stage.

Unveiling the iPad Mini

In the autumn season, Apple rolled out a revamped iPad Mini that echoed the iPad Air’s sleek design language. Key upgrades included:

• 8.3‑inch Liquid Retina Display – a larger screen than before.
• A15 Bionic Processor – a faster silicon chip.
• 5G Capability – seamless mobile‑network integration.
• USB‑C Port – a more universal, modern connector.

These enhancements reaffirm Apple’s strategy of blending high‑performance silicon with cutting‑edge design in its tablet lineup.

Apple Introduces the Ninth-Generation iPad

Beyond a Pocket-Sized Tablet

Apple unveiled the latest iPad alongside a compact tablet. This iteration retained the original design, connectivity, and feature set while upgrading the processor from the former A12 Bionic to the newer A13 Bionic.

Storage Doubling Without a Price Increase

• The base configuration now offers 64 GB of internal storage, a jump from 32 GB.
• All other specifications, including display size and performance, remained unchanged.
• The device’s retail price stayed at its previous level.

Key Takeaway

Apple’s ninth-generation iPad represents a modest upgrade that focuses on processor performance and storage capacity while keeping the overall package and pricing consistent.

iPad Air (5th generation), iPad (10th generation), and iPad Pro (11-inch and 12.9-inch) – 2022

2022: Apple’s iPad Air undergoes a significant transformation

In 2022, Apple’s tablet lineup experienced a pivotal change. The iPad Air introduced a major upgrade by transitioning from the A‑series mobile processors to the M1 desktop‑tier chip. Despite maintaining the same price, Apple enhanced the tablet’s capabilities with the following features:

Key Enhancements

• Front camera upgrade – The iPad Air received a higher‑quality front camera equipped with Center Stage support, allowing the camera to automatically adjust its angle and frame the user during video calls.
• 5G connectivity – The tablet now supports 5G networks, delivering faster data speeds for online streaming, gaming, and cloud services.
• USB‑C performance – The iPad Air’s USB‑C port was upgraded, providing increased data transfer speeds and compatibility with a broader range of accessories.

What This Means for Users

The introduction of the M1 chip and the new feature set positions the iPad Air as a more powerful and versatile tablet. Users can enjoy:

• A more robust processing performance for demanding apps and multitasking.
• Improved video communication quality, thanks to Center Stage and the better front camera.
• Faster content delivery and smoother experiences facilitated by 5G and the improved USB‑C port.

Overall, the 2022 upgrade cycle brought a comprehensive redesign to the iPad Air, ensuring that the tablet remains competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

Updated Entry‑Level iPad Offers New Design and Features

Later in the year, Apple refreshed the entry‑level iPad with its first major design overhaul in a long time. The device adopted the same all‑metal unibody look as the iPad Air and mini, and Apple added vibrant colors to the lineup.

In addition to the visual upgrade, the iPad introduced a range of technical improvements:

• USB‑C port – the first iPad to include a USB‑C connector for easier charging and accessories.
• A14 Bionic chip – a powerful processor that keeps the iPad competitive with higher‑tier models.
• 12‑megapixel front camera – enhanced video calls and Face‑Time performance.
• 5G support – faster mobile data for a more connected experience.
• $449 asking price – a slightly higher price that reflects the new design and features.

These updates bring the entry‑level iPad closer to the capabilities of more expensive iPads while keeping the device approachable for a wide range of users.

Next-Gen iPad Pro Highlights

Apple’s flagship device arrived next to Apple’s standard iPad. The 2022 iteration delivered only incremental improvements.

• M2 chip powered the hardware refresh.
• Stage Manager emerged as the highlight, offering full external display support and hover gestures for the Apple Pencil.

iPad Air (11-inch and 13-inch), iPad Pro (11-inch and 13-inch), and iPad mini (7th generation) – 2024

Apple reshapes its tablet menu again in 2024

11‑inch iPad Air stays the flagship, while a 13‑inch mid‑tier model debuts

• M2 chip powers both
• Front camera shifts to portrait orientation
• New color palette adds variety
• Magnetic keyboard compatible on both sizes

What Apple’s tablet update means for users

With the updated lineup, Apple broadens the middle tier of its iPad Air family, offering a larger screen without jumping to the high‑end price bracket. The M2 processor ensures a strong performance, while the portrait front camera targets the growing trend of selfie photography. Fresh colors and a magnetic keyboard across all models provide a cohesive experience for both newcomers and loyal customers.

iPad Pro 2024 Refresh

The most striking headline was the 2024 iPad Pro update. It unveiled a freshly minted design language boasting the thinnest tablet frame to date, paired with the M4 chip. OLED illumination received another essential revamp, alongside a brushed Magic Keyboard and a pro‑grade Apple Pencil.

• Design – Slimmest chassis ever
• Chip – New M4 processor
• Display – OLED upgrade
• Accessories – Metallic Magic Keyboard + Apple Pencil Pro

Apple Unveils the Seventh-Generation iPad mini

Key Enhancements Inside the Compact Tablet

• A17 Pro Processor – Provides full access to Apple’s Intelligence experience
• Apple Pencil Pro Support – Adds advanced drawing capabilities
• New Color Options – Expands the tablet’s visual appeal

Later in the year, Apple introduced the seventh-generation iPad mini. The latest compact tablet from Apple didn’t change anything on the outside, but on the inside, it moved to the A17 Pro processor that allowed it to run the full Apple Intelligence experience. The tablet also landed support for the Apple Pencil Pro and a couple of new color options, as well.

iPad (11th generation) and iPad Air (11-inch and 13-inch) – 2025

2025 Apple Tablet Lineup

iPad Entry‑Point

Apple’s basic iPad kept its familiar chassis for another year, offering a steady platform for users who prefer simplicity. While no dramatic design shift occurred, the tablet announced two notable upgrades:

bBase Storage Doubled: The standard model now starts at 128 GB, a 50 % increase over the previous year, yet the price remained unchanged.

bChip Evolution: A year‑on‑year processor refresh delivered better performance.

Color Palette: The iPad retained its vibrant selection of finishes, keeping the aesthetic appeal intact.

These changes combined to solidify the entry‑point option as a reliable choice for everyday tasks.

iPad Air Refresh

Apple also released a refreshed iPad Air, presented in the familiar 11‑inch and 13‑inch sizes. The mid‑point tablets incorporated several advanced features:

bMid‑Point Processor: The new Air tablets adopted the M3 chip, providing a significant horsepower boost.

bAdvanced Graphics Architecture Support: The device now supports Apple’s cutting‑edge graphics framework, enhancing visual performance for creative and gaming applications.

bCustom Magic Keyboard: A dedicated Magic Keyboard accessory was added, delivering a higher‑quality typing experience and a more robust typing platform.

These updates positioned the iPad Air as a powerful, mid‑range tablet that balances performance and versatility.

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Summary*

In 2025, Apple’s tablet lineup saw steady progression: the iPad entry‑point doubled base storage without raising the price, while the iPad Air welcomed the M3 chip, advanced graphics support, and a custom Magic Keyboard. These changes reaffirmed Apple’s commitment to offering modern, high‑performance devices across its tablet spectrum.

What’s next?

Apple’s iPad Updates for 2025

Apple’s iPad lineup is expected to remain steady in 2025, with no headline‑sized changes slated for the tablets.

Hardware Refreshes

• The iPad Pro will be powered by an M5 silicon chip, signaling a next‑generation upgrade.
• The device will feature a dual‑front‑camera layout, placing one sensor along the horizontal edge and another along the vertical edge.

Software Enhancements

• iPadOS 26 will adopt a macOS‑inspired aesthetic, introducing a menu bar and a comprehensive app multitasking interface.
• Improved tiling controls will enhance window management across the tablet.
• The new iPadOS release will include popular macOS staples such as Preview, Phone, and a revamped Files app.

Key Takeaways

While Apple’s hardware strategy for iPads will largely stay consistent, the 2025 software update promises a macOS‑aligned experience and a cleaner app multitasking workflow.