Description
The iPad 5th Gen (also called the iPad 2017), released in March 2017, was a more affordable iPad model that retained many of the features of earlier iPads while offering solid performance and an excellent display at a lower price point. It was positioned as an entry-level tablet, replacing the iPad Air 2 in Apple’s lineup. Here are the key features of the iPad 5th Gen:
1. Display
9.7-inch Retina Display: The iPad 5th Gen features a 9.7-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels (264 ppi), offering sharp visuals, vibrant colors, and decent clarity for media consumption and productivity tasks.
IPS Technology: The display uses IPS (In-Plane Switching) technology, which provides wide viewing angles and accurate color reproduction.
No Anti-Reflective Coating: Unlike later models, the iPad 5th Gen doesn’t have an anti-reflective coating, meaning it might struggle a bit more in bright light compared to newer models.
2. Design and Build
Aluminum Unibody: The iPad 5th Gen features an aluminum unibody construction, offering a solid, premium feel.
Slim and Light: The iPad weighs 469 grams (Wi-Fi) and is 7.5mm thick, making it fairly slim and lightweight.
Colors: The iPad 5th Gen was available in Space Gray, Silver, and Gold.
3. Performance
A9 Chip: The iPad 5th Gen is powered by the A9 chip, which was also used in the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus. It offers solid performance with a dual-core CPU and a quad-core GPU, making it suitable for general tasks, gaming, and multimedia.
M9 Motion Coprocessor: The device includes the M9 motion coprocessor, which helps process motion data from the accelerometer, gyroscope, and compass efficiently, saving battery life during sensor-heavy tasks.
Solid Everyday Performance: The A9 chip ensures smooth multitasking, web browsing, video playback, and light gaming, though it’s less powerful compared to newer iPads with the A12 or A14 chips.
4. Camera System
8 MP iSight Camera (Rear): The rear camera is an 8 MP iSight camera with an f/2.4 aperture, capable of capturing 1080p HD video at 30 fps. It also supports features like auto-focus and HDR for photos.
1.2 MP Front Camera: The front camera is a 1.2 MP FaceTime HD camera with an f/2.2 aperture, capable of recording 720p HD video. This makes it suitable for video calls and casual selfies.
No 4K Video Recording: Unlike newer models, the iPad 5th Gen doesn’t support 4K video recording.
5. Battery Life
Up to 10 Hours: The iPad 5th Gen provides up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge for typical tasks such as web browsing, video watching, and reading.
Lithium-Polymer Battery: The device includes a 32.4-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery, which offers solid longevity for a full day of typical use.
6. Connectivity
Wi-Fi and Cellular Options: Available in two versions:Wi-Fi Only: Supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi + Cellular: Supports 4G LTE connectivity for internet on the go (with compatible carriers).
Bluetooth 4.2: Supports Bluetooth 4.2 for connecting wireless accessories like headphones, keyboards, and speakers.
Lightning Connector: Uses the Lightning port for charging and connecting accessories.
7. Operating System
The iPad 5th Gen shipped with iOS 10 and is compatible with later versions, including iPadOS (up to iPadOS 15). It supports many modern features such as Split View, Slide Over, and Apple Pencil support (but only on models with screen compatibility).
No Face ID or Touch ID: The iPad 5th Gen does not have Touch ID or Face ID, relying instead on the standard passcode for security.
8. Storage Options
Available in 32GB and 128GB storage options.
No Expandable Storage: The device does not support microSD card expansion, so you’ll need to choose the right amount of storage when purchasing.
9. Other Features
Stereo Speakers: The iPad 5th Gen features stereo speakers, offering good sound quality for casual media consumption.
Sensors: Includes a range of sensors like an accelerometer, gyroscope, ambient light sensor, and barometer.
No Apple Pencil Support: Unlike later iPad models, the iPad 5th Gen does not support the Apple Pencil.
No Smart Connector: It lacks a Smart Connector, so it cannot be used with Apple’s Smart Keyboard.
10. Price and Availability
At launch, the iPad 5th Gen started at $329 for the 32GB Wi-Fi model, offering a good balance of price and performance.
This model was eventually discontinued and replaced by the iPad 6th Gen in 2018, though you can still find it through third-party resellers or refurbished markets.
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