iPad A5 2012

As initially discovered by AnandTech, Apple discreetly began shipping an updated iPad 2 with the Model Identifier "iPad2,4" around March 25, 2012. While not officially acknowledged by Apple, this model features a smaller 32 nm 1 GHz "dual core" Apple A5 processor (S5L8942, APL2498) and slightly better battery life, leading EveryiPad.com to document it as a distinct model.

Just like the 45 nm A5-powered iPad 2 (Wi-Fi Only), this version is equipped with a 9.7-inch (1024x768, 132 ppi) multitouch "glossy" LED-backlit IPS display and runs the same iOS as the iPhone and iPod touch. It is compatible with thousands of iPad-specific apps and most iPhone/iPod touch apps, but not Mac OS X applications.

This iPad 2 model has 16 GB of flash storage (unlike the earlier version which also offered 32 GB and 64 GB options). It includes front and rear cameras, 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, an accelerometer, a three-axis gyroscope, an ambient light sensor, a digital compass, a speaker, and a built-in mic. It is housed in a 0.34-inch thick, 1.33-pound glass and aluminum case with a black or white front and an aluminum back.

Officially, the battery life is the same as the earlier iPad 2 (Wi-Fi Only) model: 10 hours of "surfing the web on Wi-Fi, watching video, or listening to music."

The 'iPad2,4' was a silent but significant revision to the original iPad 2, primarily for Apple's manufacturing efficiency. Externally, it was identical to the 2011 model. Internally, however, it featured a die-shrunk 32-nanometer version of the A5 processor. For consumers who unknowingly purchased this version, the primary benefit was a noticeable improvement in battery life, with tests showing gains of 15-30% in various use cases, all thanks to the more power-efficient chip. Performance remained identical to the original iPad 2. This model wasn't marketed as a new product, but it represented a clever manufacturing strategy by Apple and a pleasant surprise for the lucky customers who received one, as they got a more efficient device for the same price.