Mobile Computing.com

iPad

By Paul Kirvan

What is an iPad?

The iPad is a touchscreen tablet PC made by Apple. The original iPad debuted in 2010. Apple has four iPad product lines: iPad, iPad mini, iPad Air and iPad Pro. All models are available in a variety of colors. They run Apple iPadOS mobile operating system (OS) and have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The latest models support 5G cellular service.

These portable devices provide a more substantial computer device than a smartphone; however, they don't come with all the features and capabilities of a laptop. They are easy to use and have Apple's highly optimized hardware and software that the company designs and updates.

How does an iPad work?

IPads include a central processing unit, memory, display, and back and front cameras. They run iPadOS, Apple's iOS version for the iPad; have a graphic touchscreen display; support cellular service; and have a microphone, speaker and connectors such as USB-C. Users power on the device, log in and launch the desired applications.

IPad apps can be downloaded from the Apple App Store. As with any mobile device, battery life is an important factor when using an iPad. The device's power management has steadily improved with each new generation.

Why is the iPad important?

Convenience and ease of use are two important attributes of the iPad. Like all tablets, iPads are light and mobile compared with laptop computers. The latest iPad models range from 1.02 pounds for the fifth-generation iPad Air to 1.51 pounds for the sixth-generation iPad Pro. Mac laptops range in weight from 2.8 to 4.7 pounds.

Users can carry the iPad and launch it virtually anywhere, so long as the battery is sufficiently charged. Access to wireless networks increases the device's convenience as does access to just about any website on the internet, especially social media sites.

Messaging, photography and video creation are all easily done on iPads. Models with a large screen, such as the iPad Pro, are recommended for business and enhanced graphics and video projects. The Apple Pencil is a useful tool for graphics activities.

How are iPads used?

An iPad is a versatile device that can be used for various purposes. In business environments, people with mobile jobs, such as delivery and repair personnel and on-site customer service representatives, are more likely to use tablets. IPads provide many useful functions while on the move and are easy to use. Users may be more apt to use a laptop or desktop system in an office setting, but iPads can work as an alternate laptop when needed.

The following are among the various ways iPads are used:

Pros and cons of iPads

The iPad offers many benefits, not the least of which is convenience, as well as a number of drawbacks.

IPad advantages

IPad drawbacks

Differences between iPads and tablets

IPads are tablets that use Apple iPadOS and are marketed by Apple. Other vendors' tablets run different OSes, such as Android, Google ChromeOS and Microsoft Windows. Tablets available from other vendors include the Amazon Fire, Microsoft Surface, Samsung Galaxy and Lenovo Tab.

Key differences between Apple tablets and other tablets include the following:

The history of the iPad

Key dates in the iPad's evolution include the following:

Find out more about the advantages and disadvantages of mobile devices in business.

23 Jun 2023

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