Ever since its inception, the iPad has operated in the liminal space between toy and tool. Great for streaming movies and casually browsing, it’s never quite been enough to replace a laptop. Apple’s newest iPad may change that.
At its event in Cupertino this month, Apple revealed the specs on its newest entry-level tablet. The 7th-generation model will feature a 10.2-inch Retina display, A10 Fusion chip, smart connector for a full-sized keyboard and a host of cool new multitasking features in iPadOS.
The net effect: an iPad that’s significantly more powerful than its predecessors — possibly enough so to fill the needs of light laptop users. What’s more, the price is set at a reasonable $329. (Apple’s compatible iPad keyboard will run you an additional $160.)
Will the extra utility and approachability of Apple’s entry-level iPad make the Pro somewhat less appealing? Time will tell…