April 3rd is no ordinary day for Apple enthusiasts; it marks the 16th anniversary of the first-generation iPad. Remember those days? When some scoffed, calling it just a “giant iPod Touch”? Well, those skeptics seem to be rehashing their words now, because this “giant” device has become the backbone of mobile computing worldwide.
It all started with Steve Jobs' mind.
On January 27, 2010, Steve Jobs took to the stage to announce the iPad, but the device didn't actually reach consumers until April 3 of the same year. What many may not know is that the idea for a tablet predated the iPhone itself! Apple had been working on a prototype tablet project since 2004, but Jobs decided to shelve the project and prioritize the iPhone to establish itself in the market first.
The first-generation iPad featured a distinctive design reminiscent of a bygone era: thick bezels, a 9.7-inch screen with a resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels, the iconic home button, and a bulky 30-pin connector. Most importantly, the iPad was the first device Apple released with its own custom-designed processor, the Apple A4 chip, marking the beginning of its journey toward complete independence in the world of processors.
A magical device at an unbelievable price
At its launch, Steve Jobs described the iPad as “a magical, revolutionary device at an incredible price,” starting at just $499. Indeed, its price and capabilities proved a killer combination for competitors; in its first month alone, Apple sold one million iPads. Despite Microsoft and Samsung's swift attempts to offer alternatives, the iPad remained firmly in the lead.
Even today, a decade and a half later, the iPad remains the undisputed king of tablets worldwide. According to data from the fourth quarter of 2025, Apple commanded a 44.9% market share, while Samsung trailed far behind with a mere 14.7%. It seems the "magic" Jobs spoke of is still working!
Today's iPad family... a device for everyone
The iPad family has evolved from a single model to a diverse range catering to all needs and budgets. We now have the traditional 11-inch iPad for those seeking a budget-friendly option, and the iPad Air in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes as a powerful mid-range choice with Mac processors. And let's not forget the compact 8.3-inch iPad mini for those who prefer a lightweight device.
For professionals seeking maximum performance, the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro models offer Apple's latest technologies and M-series processors, making them superior to many laptops. While some may still prefer macOS or a full suite of Office applications, there's no denying the remarkable progress the iPad has made in its 16 years.
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