iPad A10 Fusion 2019

The 10.2-Inch iPad (7th Gen) models, introduced in 2019, are primarily distinguished as the first entry-level iPad series to feature the "Smart Connector" for an Apple Smart Keyboard. Like the iPad (6th Gen) it replaced, it also supports the original Apple Pencil (A1603, MK0C2AM/A).

All iPad (7th Gen) devices, including this Wi-Fi and cellular A2198 model (sold globally except for the US, Canada, and mainland China), are housed in white and gold, white and silver, or black and "Space Gray" cases. They feature a 10.2" 2160x1620 (264 ppi) LED-backlit IPS touch-sensitive "Retina" display and a "Touch ID" fingerprint sensor. Each is powered by a four-core, 2.33 GHz Apple A10 Fusion processor, with 3 GB of RAM and either 32 GB or 128 GB of flash storage.

Other significant features include dual cameras: a rear 8-megapixel "iSight" camera for stills, Live Photos, and 1080p 30 fps video, and a front 1.2-megapixel "FaceTime HD" camera for stills, Live Photos, and 720p video. It supports dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi with HT80 with MIMO, Bluetooth 4.2, and has stereo speakers. A Lightning port provides power and computer connectivity.

Battery life is rated at up to 10 hours of "surfing the web on Wi-Fi, watching video, or listening to music" and up to 9 hours on a cellular network.

This Wi-Fi/Cellular-equipped A2198 model supports GPS/GNSS, GSM/EDGE, UMTS/HSPA/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA, and LTE bands 1-5, 7, 8, 11-14, 17-21, 25, 26, 28-30, 34, 38-41, and 66. It does not support Band 71 (600 MHz). It includes a Nano-SIM (Apple SIM) and an eSIM for easier carrier switching worldwide.

The 7th generation iPad with global cellular connectivity was evaluated as a highly versatile and affordable tablet for the masses. Its key selling points were the newly enlarged 10.2-inch display and the inclusion of the Smart Connector, which allowed it to be paired with Apple's Smart Keyboard for a more laptop-like experience. Coupled with its reliable LTE performance across a wide range of global bands and continued support for the Apple Pencil, it became a compelling option for students and mobile workers. However, it drew some criticism for using the aging A10 Fusion processor, which felt underpowered compared to other iPads in the lineup. The non-laminated screen was also a point of contention for some. Despite these trade-offs, its combination of a larger screen, enhanced productivity features, and go-anywhere connectivity at a budget-friendly price point made it a very popular and well-regarded choice worldwide.