Price and specifications of Apple iPad 4 Wi-Fi + Cellular advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview and Launch

The Apple iPad 4 Wi-Fi + Cellular, announced in October 2012 and released in November of the same year, marked a significant step forward in tablet technology at the time. Although it has since been discontinued, its design and functionality have left a lasting impression on the tablet market. It came with a premium price tag of about 500 EUR but provided a variety of advanced features that were highly prized among users in 2012.

Design and Build

The iPad 4 boasts a solid construction with dimensions of 241.2 x 185.7 x 9.4 mm and a weight of 662 grams. Its robust design is complemented by a sleek look available in two classic colors: Black and White. The device is equipped with a Micro-SIM slot, making it easy for users to switch networks as needed. The screen-to-body ratio stands at approximately 65.1%, offering a comfortable viewing experience on a substantial 9.7-inch display.

Display Quality

With a 9.7-inch IPS LCD screen, the iPad 4 offers a resolution of 1536 x 2048 pixels and a 4:3 ratio, bringing a pixel density of about 264 pixels per inch. This high-resolution display is protected by scratch-resistant glass and an oleophobic coating, enhancing its durability against everyday wear and tear. Users appreciated its contrast ratio of 762:1, delivering vibrant color accuracy and clarity.

Processing Power and Platform

The heart of the iPad 4 is powered by the Apple A6X chipset, which features a dual-core 1.4 GHz CPU and a PowerVR SGX554MP4 GPU, offering quad-core graphics. This combination provided users with a seamless and responsive experience, whether they were browsing the web, playing games, or multitasking applications. It initially ran on iOS 6 and was upgradable to iOS 10.3, making it a versatile and robust device during its time.

Memory and Storage

In terms of storage, the iPad 4 came with various internal storage options: 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB, all paired with 1GB of RAM. Despite the absence of a card slot for expandable memory, the available storage configurations allowed for flexibility based on the user's needs, whether for apps, media, or documents.

Camera Capabilities

The device featured a rear 5 MP camera with autofocus, capable of recording 1080p video at 30 frames per second. On the front, the iPad 4 offered a 1.2 MP selfie camera which supported 720p video recording at 30 fps, along with the functionality of FaceTime over Wi-Fi. Though not cutting-edge by today's standards, these cameras were quite capable for video calls and casual photography at the time.

Audio and Multimedia

With a built-in loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, the iPad 4 catered to users who enjoyed their media with flexibility in audio options. The quality of sound output was notable, with tests indicating voice clarity at 67dB, noise at 66dB, and ringtones at 75dB. Whether watching movies, listening to music, or attending online meetings, users could rely on the iPad 4 for a compelling audio experience.

Connectivity Options

The iPad 4 supported a variety of network technologies including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EV-DO, and LTE, ensuring extensive coverage and fast data speeds across multiple regions. For local connectivity, it included Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n (dual-band) support, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP, and positioning technologies through GPS and GLONASS. Sadly, NFC and Radio capabilities were not included.

Battery Life

Equipped with a non-removable Li-Po 11560 mAh battery (42.5 Wh), the device delivered impressive stamina. It offered up to 720 hours of standby time and up to 9 hours of usage, which was especially beneficial for users relying on their device for lengthy periods without frequent charging.

Sensors and Extra Features

The iPad 4 included a set of essential sensors like an accelerometer, gyro, and compass, which enriched the interaction experience, particularly in gaming and augmented reality applications. These features, while standard today, were quite advanced when the device was first introduced.

Conclusion

In summary, the Apple iPad 4 Wi-Fi + Cellular represented a well-rounded tablet that satisfied a variety of user demands with its robust build, sharp display, efficient processing power, and complete connectivity options. Although it is surpassed by modern standards, its legacy persists through the impact it had in shaping tablet technology.