Apple's development of a tablet computer began with the Newton MessagePad 100, which was introduced in 1993. The effort led to the creation of the ARM6 processor core with Acorn Computers. Apple also developed a prototype PowerBook Duo-based tablet computer named the PenLite but the project was later canceled, to avoid confusing the market with too many similar devices.Apple brought out several more Newton-based PDAs, and discontinued the last of the line, the MessagePad 2100, in 1998.
Apple renewed efforts to develop a tablet as early as 2000. Apple CEO Steve Jobs canceled the project twice, once due to insufficient battery life, and again due to inadequate memory. After returning from medical leave, Jobs devoted most of his attention at Apple to completing the device, striking deals with print media companies before the product's announcement.
Hardware
| Model | Early 2010[2] |
|---|---|
| Announce date | January 27, 2010 |
| Colour display | 9.7 inches (25 cm) LED backlit IPS LCD[2] 1024×768 pixel (XGA), 132ppi |
| Processor | 1 GHz Apple A4 system-on-a-chip[2][3] |
| Storage | 16, 32 or 64 GB flash memory |
| Wireless | Integrated 802.11a/b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR |
| 3G Internet | 7.2 Mbps HSDPA using micro-SIM card tray (3G model only) |
| Operating system | iPhone OS |
| Battery | Built-in lithium-polymer 25 W·h (claimed 10 h usage, 1 month standby) |
| Weight | 1.5 pounds (680 g), 1.6 pounds (730 g) (3G Model) |
| Dimensions | 9.56 inches (24.3 cm) x 7.47 inches (19.0 cm) x 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) |
Sensors
- Accelerometer
- Ambient light sensor
- Digital compass
- Assisted GPS (3G model)
Input/Output
- Cellular (3G model)
- Dock connector
- 3.5-mm stereo headphone jack
- Built-in speakers
- Microphone
Controls
- Multi-touch Touchscreen display
- Sleep button
- Mute switch
- Volume rocker
- Home button
- micro-SIM card tray (3G model only)
Accessories
Apple will make available the following iPad accessories:
