Earlier this month Apple revealed that they were releasing a new version of the 9.7″ iPad, which comes at a new low-cost price of $329. While many saw it as being the replacement for the iPad Air 2, we now know that it’s a lot similar to the iPad Air line than we originally thought.
iFixit has released a teardown of the new iPad, which reveals that its insides look pretty much identical to what the insides of the original iPad Air looked like. In terms of what is actually different, it is noted that the original iPad Air has a slightly bigger Wi-Fi module than the new 9.7″ iPad does. However, other than that it appears that the insides and outsides of both devices are identical. One thing that iFixit notes is that the new iPad is difficult to repair, which is due to the front panel being glued to the device and strong adhesive keeping everything together.
Despite the fact that we’re dealing with a tablet here that looks very similar to what Apple has released before, ultimately it’s the price tag that makes it standout. Coming in at just $329, it’s the cheapest iPad that the company has ever released while still containing the latest technical advancements that put it above the iPad Air 2. The lack of Air in the title does seem to be reflected in the actual build of the new tablet, however, as it is a little thicker and heavier than the Air 2.
Even still, those who have used the Air 2 will find that the new iPad features specs that are identical to that device, with a display resolution of 2,048‑by‑1,536 at 264 PPI, 8-megapixel rear iSight camera, 1.2-megapixel front FaceTime camera, two speakers, Lightning connector, 3.5mm headphone jack, Touch ID with Apple Pay, and Bluetooth 4.2.
If you’re interested in purchasing the new tablet, then you can do so straight from Apple’s official website. The device is available in a Silver, Gold and Space Gray finish, with 32GB and 128GB models being offered. As always, it comes with a Lightning to USB Cable and a USB Power Adapter.
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