iPad A6X 2012

Like all preceding iPad models, the iPad 4th Gen (Wi-Fi Only, A1458)—sometimes called the "iPad 4" and formally marketed by Apple as the "iPad with Retina Display"—is a tablet computer for web, email, photos, video, music, and gaming.

The iPad 4th Gen models use essentially the same housing as the iPad 3rd Gen but feature a Lightning port instead of the older Dock Connector. Internally, they have a faster processor, faster Wi-Fi, and an improved camera. While cellular models offer 4G LTE, this specific model is Wi-Fi only.

All iPad 4th Gen models have a 9.7-inch 2048x1536 (264 ppi) multitouch glossy LED-backlit "retina" display, a dual-core 1.4 GHz Apple A6X "system on a chip" with quad-core graphics, and 1 GB of RAM. They were available with 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB, or 128 GB of flash storage. The devices include dual cameras: a rear 5-megapixel "iSight" camera for stills and 1080p video, and a front 1.2-megapixel "FaceTime HD" camera for stills and 720p video. They also support dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0.

Battery life for this iPad 4th Gen is rated at 10 hours of "surfing the web on Wi-Fi, watching video, or listening to music." Please note that this model does not support 4G LTE or A-GPS/GLONASS.

The 4th generation iPad was a surprising and quick update, released just seven months after its predecessor. Its most significant improvements were the new A6X processor, which offered roughly double the CPU and graphics performance, and the switch to the new, smaller Lightning connector. The performance boost was noticeable, making the already-fast iPad 3 feel even snappier, especially in graphics-intensive apps and games. It retained the same beautiful Retina display and excellent battery life of the previous model. However, coming so soon after the 3rd generation, it generated frustration among recent buyers. For new customers, it was the best tablet available, offering top-tier performance and a stunning screen. But for owners of the previous model, the upgrade was not considered essential unless they needed the absolute fastest performance or wanted to align with the new Lightning standard.