Unveiling the Apple iPad 3 The Complete Guide

Design and Build

The Apple iPad 3 Wi-Fi + Cellular, released in March 2012, presents a distinctive design reflective of Apple's commitment to aesthetics and functionality. The device measures 241.2 x 185.7 x 9.4 mm and weighs 662 grams, indicating a solid build quality that assures users of durability. The iPad 3 is equipped with a micro-SIM slot, and its dimensions provide a balanced ergonomic structure for convenient handheld use.

Display

The iPad 3 features a stunning 9.7-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1536 x 2048 pixels, providing crisp and vibrant visuals. This resolution translates to a pixel density of approximately 264 ppi, ensuring sharp and clear imagery. The screen's scratch-resistant glass and oleophobic coating offer protection against scratches and smudges, enhancing the device's longevity and maintaining its pristine look.

Performance

At its core, the iPad 3 is powered by the Apple A5X chipset, which includes a dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 CPU and PowerVR SGX543MP4 quad-core graphics. This configuration allows for robust multitasking capabilities and smooth performance in graphics-intensive applications and games. Originally shipped with iOS 5.1, the device is upgradeable to iOS 9.3.5, offering users the opportunity to benefit from Apple's operating system enhancements introduced over time.

Camera System

Photography and videography on the iPad 3 are facilitated by a 5 MP rear camera featuring autofocus and capable of recording 1080p videos at 30 frames per second. This camera setup is adequate for capturing everyday moments with reasonable quality. The front VGA camera supports video calling over Wi-Fi, recorded in 480p at 30 fps, sufficient for video chats.

Network and Connectivity

The iPad 3 supports various network technologies, including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, and LTE, allowing for versatile mobile connectivity. It is compatible with 2G, 3G, and 4G bands, specifically accommodating AT&T's network through LTE band support. For wireless connectivity, the device includes Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, which supports dual-band connectivity and Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities. Bluetooth 4.0 is present for wireless peripherals, enhancing the device's connectivity options.

Storage and Memory

In terms of storage, the iPad 3 offers three options: 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB, though it lacks a microSD card slot for expandable storage. The device comes with 1GB of RAM, which was sufficient for its time to ensure smooth operation of multiple applications and efficient memory management.

Audio and Media

The iPad 3 is equipped with a loudspeaker for media playback and a 3.5mm headphone jack, ensuring compatibility with a plethora of audio accessories. The audio setup ensures rich and clear sound output, enhancing the multimedia experience.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the iPad 3 is its robust battery life, boasting a non-removable 11560 mAh Li-Po battery. The device offers up to 720 hours of standby time and approximately 9 hours of talk time, providing long-lasting usage, which is crucial for productivity and entertainment.

Additional Features

The iPad 3 incorporates several sensors, including an accelerometer, gyro, and compass, adding to the overall functionality of the device by enabling various motion-based applications and services. The availability of the device in black and white colors offers users simple customization to suit personal style preferences.

Conclusion

The Apple iPad 3 Wi-Fi + Cellular, despite being discontinued, remains a significant example of Apple's excellence in tablet design and functionality. Its powerful display, robust build, dependable performance, and extended battery life made it a popular choice during its time. While technology has advanced since its release, the iPad 3 offered a glimpse into the future of mobile computing, laying the groundwork for subsequent iterations of Apple's iconic tablet line.