iPads

The iPad is a line of tablet computers by Apple Inc., introduced in 2010 with the original iPad. It is designed to be a portable device for media consumption, web browsing, and productivity. The product line has evolved through multiple generations, with new hardware, display technology, and software optimized for touch input.

Hardware and design: iPads have aluminum bodies, touchscreens, and mobile processors. They have varied screen sizes, from small iPad mini to larger iPad Pro. The iPad Pro line added higher performance chips (M-series) and USB-C connectivity, while others used Lightning port. Accessories include the Apple Pencil and external keyboards.

Software: iPads run iPadOS, a fork of iOS, featuring multitasking, Apple Pencil support, and an app ecosystem designed for touch and stylus input. Features have expanded to support productivity, creative work, and education; features like Split View, Slide Over, and universal clipboard enhance workflow.

Models: Current iPad family includes the standard iPad, iPad Air, iPad mini, and iPad Pro. The Pro line targets professionals with larger displays, higher performance, and peripherals; the standard iPad emphasizes affordability; the iPad mini offers compact form; iPad Air balances performance and portability.

Impact and reception: The iPad has been a dominant product in the tablet market since its introduction, influencing mobile computing and education. It faces competition from Android tablets and concerns about price and repairability in some markets.