Here’s a table of every iPad Generation released in the order that they were announced. You can see the Generation name, announcement date, and release date:
| Generation | Announced | Released |
|---|---|---|
| iPad (1st generation) | Jan-27-2010 | Apr-3-2010 |
| iPad 2 | Mar-2-2011 | Mar-11-2011 |
| iPad (3rd generation) | Mar-7-2012 | Mar-16-2012 |
| iPad Mini (1st generation) | Oct-23-2012 | Nov-2-2012 |
| iPad (4th generation) | Oct-23-2012 | Nov-2-2012 |
| iPad Air (1st generation) | Oct-22-2013 | Nov-1-2013 |
| iPad Mini 2 | Oct-22-2013 | Nov-12-2013 |
| iPad Mini 3 | Oct-16-2014 | Oct-22-2014 |
| iPad Air 2 | Oct-16-2014 | Oct-22-2014 |
| iPad Mini 4 | Sep-9-2015 | Sep-9-2015 |
| iPad Pro (1st generation) 12.9-inch | Sep-9-2015 | Nov-11-2015 |
| iPad Pro (1st generation) 9.7-inch | Sep-9-2015 | Mar-31-2016 |
| iPad (5th generation) | Mar-21-2017 | Mar-24-2017 |
| iPad Pro (2nd generation) 12.9-inch | Jun-5-2017 | Jun-13-2017 |
| iPad Pro (2nd generation) 10.5-inch | Jun-5-2017 | Jun-13-2017 |
| iPad (6th generation) | Mar-27-2018 | Mar-27-2018 |
| iPad Pro (3rd generation) | Oct-30-2018 | Nov-7-2018 |
| iPad Mini (5th generation) | Mar-18-2019 | Mar-18-2019 |
| iPad Air (3rd generation) | Mar-18-2019 | Mar-18-2019 |
| iPad (7th generation) | Sep-10-2019 | Sep-25-2019 |
| iPad Pro (4th generation) | Mar-18-2020 | Mar-25-2020 |
| iPad (8th generation) | Sep-15-2020 | Sep-18-2020 |
| iPad Air (4th generation) | Sep-15-2020 | Oct-23-2020 |
| iPad Pro (5th generation) | Apr-20-2021 | May-21-2021 |
| iPad (9th generation) | Sep-14-2021 | Sep-24-2021 |
| iPad Mini (6th generation) | Sep-14-2021 | Sep-24-2021 |
| iPad Air (5th generation) | Mar-8-2022 | Mar-18-2022 |
| iPad Pro (6th generation) | Oct-18-2022 | Oct-26-2022 |
| iPad (10th generation) | Oct-18-2022 | Oct-26-2022 |
iPad Generations Overview
This section offers an informative guide through the timeline of iPad generations, exploring how Apple has continually innovated the tablet’s design, performance, and functionalities since its inception in 2010.
Introduction to iPad Generations
The iPad has undergone significant transformations. Apple released the 1st generation iPad in 2010 as a groundbreaking tablet that carved out a new niche in mobile computing.
Evolution of Design and Display
Through the years, Apple’s focus on design and display has been evident. The iPad’s design evolved from the thick bezels and button of the 1st generation to the sleek, all-screen aesthetics. The display progressed from the first non-Retina screen to the stunning visuals of the liquid Retina display.
Advancements in Processing Power
Each iPad generation brought a leap in processing power. Initial models came with the A4 chip, and over time, Apple introduced more powerful chips like the A12 Bionic and the desktop-class M1 chip. These advancements ensure that iPads deliver top-notch performance.
Operating Systems and Updates
Initially adopting iOS, iPads later transitioned to a dedicated iPadOS. This provided tailored features taking advantage of the tablet’s larger screen and capabilities, ensuring that each iPad generation stayed current with regular updates, enhancing user experience.
iPad Models and Compatibility
Apple has expanded its iPad line with various models, including the iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. Each caters to different users, from casual browsing to professional-grade tasks, while maintaining compatibility with incremental accessories and operating systems.
Functionalities and Accessories
Functionality has been central to the iPad experience. Features like the camera have evolved from basic to professional standards with the addition of LiDAR scanners. Accessories like the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard elevate the iPad from a mere viewing device to a creative and productive powerhouse.
iPad Lineup Specifics
Apple’s iPad lineup boasts a variety of models, each tailored to suit different needs, from portable mini versions to powerful Pros. Within the spectrum of options, potential buyers can consider display quality, storage capacity, and compatibility with accessories like the Apple Pencil.
iPad Mini Series
The iPad Mini spans several generations, mostly recognized for their compact size. The series transitioned from using the Lightning connector to adopting USB-C, offering better versatility. Recent Minis also support the Apple Pencil, giving users precision for creative tasks on its smaller display.
iPad Air Series
The iPad Air merges performance with portability. With screen resolutions and storage options that aim to balance usage for work and play, the Air models have moved to using USB-C over Lightning. They run on powerful processors, support Apple Pencil, and have continuously evolved to become lighter and more capable, challenging even the Pro series in performance.
iPad Pro Series
iPad Pro models are the epitome of power within the iPad family, equipped with large, high-resolution displays and storage options. They feature cutting-edge processors, a camera setup near iPhone’s quality, and use USB-C for connectivity. The Pro series is known for working seamlessly with the Smart Keyboard and the Apple Pencil, catering to professionals who need more robust features.
Discontinued and Current Models
Discontinued iPads include the very first generations, which ran on now-obsolete processors and operating systems. Apple typically phases out older models as newer ones arrive. As of this writing, active models span from the seventh to the ninth in the basic range, with comparable differences mainly in processing power and camera capabilities. Older versions like the third and fourth generation may lack support for newer features like Touch ID or Face ID, which have become standard in current releases.
