By now most know that Apple, as expected, revealed two new models for their iPad brand: a thinner, litter full-size iPad called the iPad Air and an updated version of the iPad Mini with a Retina display. For those that haven't kept up on their tech news, however, read on for full details on Apple's latest creations.
We will start first with the iPad Air, which is not only 20 percent thinner and 28 percent lighter than the iPad HD, but boasts Apple's new A7 processor and has a narrow bezel around its borders. At the same time, the iPad Air still looks surprisingly similar to its predecessors from the front. It's only when you turn the device on its side, or see it in person that the differences become noticeable.
This new iPad Air will retail for $499 for the 16GB, $599 for the 32GB, $699 for the 64GB, or $799 for the 128 GB Wi-Fi models. Those consumers who want the added utility of cellular service will add another $30 to the respective model's price tag — not counting the monthly service fee.
Overall, the new iPad Air falls in line with previous rumors regarding a thinner, slightly more powerful device. It's certainly not the major leap forward that the iPad 2 was over the first generation iPad, but could be appealing enough for Apple's rabid fan base.
In addition to the new iPad Air, Apple also unveiled an updated version of the iPad Mini that, as was rumored, now sports a 7.9-inch version of the company's trademark Retina display. And like the iPad Air, the iPad Mini also includes the new A7 chip. The device is also slightly heavier than its predecessor, but not by much, and includes a 5-megapixel camera for FaceTime.
Alongside the announcement of the two new iPad SKUs, Apple also unveiled the new Mac Pro, which is set to make a big splash this December. Priced at a very reasonable $2,999, the Mac Pro could be the Apple desktop that bridges the gap between professionals and aspiring professionals in many fields. Check out the full specs of the Mac Pro below:
- 9.9" x 6.6"
- 11 Pounds
- 3.7 GHZ Quad-Core, Intel Xeon E5 Processor
- 12 GB DDR3 ECC Memory
- 256 GB SSD
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0
- 4 USB Ports & 6 Thunderbolt Ports
At a glance, it appears that the iPad Mini is the more enterprising of Apple's new tablets, as many consumers have been waiting for the Mini to adopt the Retina display. However, those who want to get in on the iPad action while saving a little money in the process are in luck, as Apple has discounted the iPad Mini down to $299 for the 16GB model.
The bad news, though, is that the third generation Apple did not receive a discount, but has been completely replaced by the Air. In other words, those who want a cheaper, full-size iPad are stuck with the iPad 2 at $399 for the 16GB model.
What do you think of the new iPad Air and the iPad Mini with Retina display? Will you be picking up either of the new models?
The iPad Air and iPad Mini with Retina display will be available November 1, 2013.