Apple’s new classroom-friendly iPad is cheaper and offers Pencil support

Surprise! There’s a new iPad (2018) out. It looks identical to the old new iPad (2017), sporting the same 9.7in display that Apple now appears to have settled on as its most mainstream-enticing. There’s a notable difference from last year’s model, though: the new slab has Apple Pencil support. Given that it’s being marketed first and foremost as an educational tool, that’s a significant upgrade, and it will be interesting to see how it fares against the Chromebook Tab 10 – also announced today – in the battle of the classroom. That’s not to say this iPad isn’t for you. New Pencil-tailored versions of Numbers, Keynote and Pages could prove useful for everyone, while the A10 Fusion Chip is no slouch. Chuck in 10-hour battery life, an 8MP rear camera and optional LTE, and you’ve a tempting portable package, especially as the new screen tech still allows for a £319 starting price point. There will be a discount for schools, but we’re still waiting for confirmation of how much.

Matt Tate Contributor

About

I'm fascinated by all things tech, but if you were going to leave me on a desert island, I'd probably ask for my Nintendo Switch, a drone, and a pair of noise-cancelling cans to block out the relentless seagull racket. When I'm not on Stuff duty you'll probably find me subscribing to too many podcasts, playing too many video games, or telling anyone who will listen that Spurs are going to win a trophy this season.

Areas of expertise

Video games, VR, smartwatches, headphones, smart speakers, bizarre Kickstarter campaigns