Along with the recent launch of the iPad Mini, Apple added a few new touches to the 9.7-inch iPad. The update is not a groundbreaking one, but it does accomplish the goals the company outlined for it. The processor is faster, battery life is as good as on the prior iPad, and even Wi-Fi is improved, according to our preliminary tests.
The display on the fourth-generation iPad is the same as on the prior version: a 2048x1536 screen with 264 pixels per inch. The screen is just as bright as on the third-gen iPad.
Apple promised more speed with the new A6X processor, and our informal tests showed that it is faster than the chip used in the iPad 3. Wi-Fi is also better, our informal tests showed. And finally, battery life is at least as long as on the last iPad.
This iPad has the new, smaller Lightning connector. The FaceTime HD camera is able to display 720p, while the iSight camera lets you record in 1080p. When the 4G version becomes available later this month, Sprint will join AT&T and Verizon as a service provider.
Prices for the new iPad remain the same as for the prior version, starting at $500 for a 16GB Wi-Fi model.
We're currently testing the new iPad, and will post our full results soon. Meanwhile, take a look at our Ratings for details on other tested tablets.
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