Hubbry Logo
IPad (3rd generation)IPad (3rd generation)Main
Open search
IPad (3rd generation)
Community hub
IPad (3rd generation)
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
IPad (3rd generation)
IPad (3rd generation)
IPad (3rd generation)
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

iPad (3rd Generation)
The logo of the third-generation iPad, reading: "The new iPad"
A picture of the third-generation iPad
iPad (3rd Generation) in black
DeveloperApple
Product familyiPad
TypeTablet computer
Release date
March 16, 2012 (2012-03-16)
  • Singapore
  • France
  • Hong Kong
  • United Kingdom
  • Germany
  • Switzerland
  • Japan
  • Canada
  • United States
  • Australia
March 23, 2012 (2012-03-23)
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Finland
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Liechtenstein
  • Luxembourg
  • Macau
  • Mexico
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Romania
April 20, 2012 (2012-04-20)
  • South Korea
  • Brunei
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Dominican Republic
  • El Salvador
  • Guatemala
  • Malaysia
  • Panama
  • Saint Martin
  • Uruguay
  • Venezuela
April 27, 2012 (2012-04-27)
  • Colombia
  • Estonia
  • India
  • Israel
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Montenegro
  • South Africa
  • Thailand
May 5, 2012 (2012-05-05)
  • Turkey
May 11, 2012 (2012-05-11)
  • Argentina
  • Aruba
  • Bolivia
  • Botswana
  • Brazil
  • Cambodia
  • Chile
  • Costa Rica
  • Curacao
  • Ecuador
  • French Guiana
  • Guadeloupe
  • Jamaica
  • Kenya
  • Madagascar
  • Malta
  • Martinique
  • Mauritius
  • Morocco
  • Peru
  • Taiwan
  • Tunisia
  • Vietnam
May 12, 2012 (2012-05-12)
  • Bahrain
  • Egypt
  • Jordan
  • Kuwait
  • Qatar
  • Saudi Arabia
  • United Arab Emirates
May 25, 2012 (2012-05-25)
  • Russia
May 29, 2012 (2012-05-29)
  • Guam
  • Philippines
June 26, 2012 (2012-06-26)
  • Indonesia
July 20, 2012 (2012-07-20)
  • China
Introductory priceUS$499
DiscontinuedOctober 23, 2012 (2012-10-23)
Units sold3 million in first three days[1]
Operating systemOriginal: iOS 5.1
Last: Wi-Fi only model: iOS 9.3.5, released August 25, 2016 (2016-08-25)
Wi-Fi + Cellular model: iOS 9.3.6, released July 22, 2019 (2019-07-22)
System on a chipApple A5X
Memory1 GB LPDDR2 RAM[2]
Storage16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB
Display9.7 inches (250 mm) 2,048 × 1,536 px color IPS LCD display at (264 ppi)[3] with a 4:3 aspect ratio
InputMulti-touch touch screen, headset controls, proximity and ambient light sensors, 3-axis gyroscope, microphone, magnetometer, accelerometer, Assisted GPS + cellular Micro-SIM card tray (cellular model only)
CameraFront: FaceTime 0.3 MP camera with VGA-quality photos and video
Back: 5 MP iSight camera with 1080p video capture at 30 frame/s
ConnectivityAll models: Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n), Bluetooth 4.0, Apple 30-pin dock connector
Wi-Fi + Cellular model（A1430）: also includes GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz), UMTS/HSPA/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1900, 2100 MHz), LTE (700, 2100 MHz)
Wi-Fi + Cellular model（A1403） on Verizon also includes EvDO Rev. A (800, 1900 MHz) GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz), UMTS/HSPA/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA (850, 900, 1900, 2100 MHz), and LTE (700 MHz)
Power3.7 V 43 W·h (11,560 mA·h)[2] lithium-ion polymer battery
Online servicesiTunes Store, App Store, MobileMe, iBookstore, Game Center, iCloud
Dimensions9.50 × 7.31 × 0.37 in (241.3 × 185.7 × 9.4 mm)
WeightWi-Fi model: 1.44 lb (650 g)
Wi-Fi + Cellular model: 1.46 lb (660 g)
PredecessoriPad 2
SuccessoriPad (4th generation)
Websitewww.apple.com/ipad/ at the Wayback Machine (archived July 21, 2012)
This article is part of a series on the
iPad
List of iPad models

The iPad (3rd generation)[4] (marketed as the new iPad,[5] colloquially referred to as the iPad 3)[6][7][8] is a tablet computer developed and marketed by Apple. It is the third device in the iPad line of tablets. It added a Retina display, the new Apple A5X chip with a quad-core graphics processor, a 5-megapixel camera, HD 1080p video recording, voice dictation, and support for LTE networks in North America.[9] It shipped with iOS 5, which provides a platform for audio-visual media, including electronic books, periodicals, films, music, computer games, presentations and web browsing.[3]

Six variations of the third-generation iPad were offered, compared to nine in the United States and Canada, although some countries had only the Wi-Fi only model. Each variation was available with black or white front glass panels, with options for 16, 32, or 64 GB of storage.[10] In North America, connectivity options were Wi-Fi only, Wi-Fi + 4G (LTE) on Verizon, AT&T, Telus, Rogers, or Bell.[1] For the rest of the world outside North America, connectivity options are Wi-Fi only (on the Wi-Fi model) or Wi-Fi + 3G (on the Wi-Fi + Cellular model), with the latter unavailable in some countries, as 4G (LTE) connectivity for the device is not available outside North America. The Wi-Fi + Cellular model includes GPS capability.

Initially, the cellular version was titled and marketed worldwide as the "Wi-Fi + 4G" model, but due to regional differences in classification of 4G (LTE) connectivity outside of North America, Apple later rebranded and altered their marketing to call this the "Wi-Fi + Cellular" model.[11][12][13]

The tablet was released in ten countries on March 16, 2012.[14] It gained mostly positive reviews, earning praise for its Retina display, processor and 4G (LTE) capabilities.[15][16][17][18][19] However, controversy arose when the LTE incompatibilities became known.[20] Three million units were sold in the first three days.[1][21]

After only seven months (221 days) of official availability, the third-generation iPad was discontinued on October 23, 2012, following the announcement of the fourth-generation iPad. The third-generation iPad had the shortest lifespan of any iOS product.[22] It was the last iPad to support the 30-pin dock connector, as the fourth-generation to ninth-generation iPad use the Lightning connector.

History

[edit]

Speculation about the product began shortly after Apple released the iPad 2, which featured front and back cameras as well as a dual-core Apple A5 processor. Speculation increased after news of a 2,048-by-1,536 pixel screen leaked.[23] During this time, the tablet was called the "iPad 3", a colloquial name sometimes still used after the release. On February 9, 2012, John Paczkowski of All Things Digital stated that "Apple’s not holding an event in February—strange, unusual or otherwise. But it is holding one in March—to launch its next iPad."[24] Another common rumor at the time was that the tablet would have an Apple A6 processor.[25][26]

On February 29, 2012, Apple announced a media event scheduled for March 7, 2012, at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. The company did not predisclose the subject of the event, but analysts widely expected the event to announce a new version of the iPad.[27][28][29][30] The announcement affected the tablet resale market positively.[31]

Release

[edit]

At the March 7 event, Apple CEO Tim Cook introduced iOS 5.1, a Japanese version of Siri, and the third-generation Apple TV before the third-generation iPad.[32] Cook claimed that the new product would be one of the main contributors to the emerging "post-PC world"—a world in which digital life would not be tied to the PC.[33]

The March 16, 2012, release included ten countries including Australia, Canada, France, Japan, Singapore, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.[34] The March 23, 2012, release included many European countries, Mexico and Macau.[35] The April 20, 2012, release added a dozen countries including South Korea and Malaysia. The April 27, 2012, release added nine more countries, including India and South Africa.[36][37] May 2012 releases added 31 countries, including Brazil and Turkey.[38]

Discontinued

[edit]

On October 23, 2012, upon the announcement of the fourth-generation iPad, the third-generation iPad was discontinued.[22] In response to criticism from its owners, the return policy of select Apple Stores was briefly extended to thirty days to allow customers to exchange the third-generation model for the fourth-generation model.[39]

Features

[edit]

Software

[edit]
See also: iOS 5, iOS 6, iOS 7, iOS 8, and iOS 9

The third-generation iPad shipped with iOS 5.1, which was released on March 7, 2012.[40] It can act as a hotspot with some carriers, sharing its internet connection over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB, providing that it is a Wi-Fi + Cellular model.[41] It can also access the App Store, a digital application distribution platform for iOS developed and maintained by Apple. The service allows users to browse and download applications from the iTunes Store that were developed with Xcode and the iOS SDK and were published through Apple. From the App Store, GarageBand, iMovie, iPhoto, and the iWork apps (Pages, Keynote, and Numbers) are available.[42]

The iPad comes with several pre-installed applications, including Safari, Mail, Photos, Videos, YouTube, Music, iTunes, App Store, Maps, Notes, Calendar, Game Center, Photo Booth, and Contacts.[43] Like all iOS devices, the iPad can sync content and other data with a Mac or PC using iTunes, although iOS 5 and later can be managed and backed up without a computer. Although the tablet is not designed to make phone calls over a cellular network, users can use a headset or the built-in speaker and microphone and place phone calls over Wi-Fi or cellular using a VoIP application, such as Skype.[44] The device has dictation, using the same voice recognition technology as the iPhone 4S. The user speaks and the iPad types what they say on the screen provided that the iPad is connected to a Wi-Fi or cellular network.[41]

The third-generation device has an optional iBooks application, which displays books and other EPUB-format content downloaded from the iBookstore.[45] Several major book publishers including Penguin Books, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster and Macmillan have committed to publishing books for the device.[46] Despite being a direct competitor to both the Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble Nook,[47] both Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble offer e-reader apps for the iPad.[48][49]

On September 19, 2012, iOS 6, which contains 200 new features, was released. The iOS 6 update includes new features such as Apple Maps, which replaced a mapping application operated by Google, Facebook integration and the ability to operate Siri on the third-generation iPad.[50]

The third-generation iPad is compatible with iOS 7, which was released in 2013. Although complete support, some newer features such as AirDrop that were released to newer models were not supported. This is the similar support that was also given on the iPhone 4S.[51]

iOS 8 is also supported by the third-generation iPad. However, some features have been stripped down.

iOS 9 supports the third-generation iPad as well. It is the fifth major iOS release that this model supports. The iOS 9 public beta was also compatible with it. This model has been supported for more than 4 years.

iOS 9.3.5 is the latest and final version to support the Wi-Fi only iPad 3rd generation model while the Wi-Fi + Cellular models run iOS 9.3.6.[52] The third-generation iPad does not support iOS 10 due to hardware limitations and performance issues.

2019 GPS rollover update

[edit]

On July 22, 2019, Apple released iOS 9.3.6 for the WiFi + Cellular models of the third-generation iPad to fix issues caused by the GPS Week Number Rollover. The issues would impact accuracy of GPS location and set the device's date and time to an incorrect value,[53] preventing connection to HTTPS servers and, consequently, Apple's servers for activation, iCloud and the iTunes and App stores. The WiFi model is not affected by the rollover as it lacks a GPS chipset.

Jailbreaking

[edit]
Main article: iOS jailbreaking

Researchers demonstrated within hours of the product release that the third-generation iPad can be "jailbroken" to use applications and programs that are not authorized by Apple.[54] The third-generation iPad can be jailbroken with Redsn0w 0.9.12 or Absinthe 2.0.[55][56] Jailbreaking violates the factory warranty.[57][58] One of the main reasons for jailbreaking is to expand the feature set limited by Apple and its App Store. Most jailbreaking tools automatically install Cydia, a native iOS APT client used for finding and installing software for jailbroken iOS devices.[59] Many apps unapproved by Apple are extensions and customizations for iOS and other apps.[60] Users install these programs to personalize and customize the interface,[60] adding desired features and fixing annoyances,[61] and simplify app development by providing access to the filesystem and command-line tools.[62][63]

Hardware

[edit]
See also: iPad Hardware
Apple's A5X chip

The device has an Apple A5X SoC with a 1 GHz dual-core 32-bit Cortex-A9 CPU and a quad-core PowerVR SGX543MP4 GPU; 1 GB of RAM; a 5-megapixel, rear-facing camera capable of 1080p video recording; and a VGA front-facing videophone camera designed for FaceTime.[64] The display resolution is 2,048 by 1,536 (QXGA) with 3.1 million pixels—four times more than the iPad 2—providing even scaling from the prior model.[65][66][67] The new iPad is thicker than its predecessor by 0.6 mm and is heavier by 51 grams for the Wi-Fi model (652 grams).[3][68] The Wi-Fi + Cellular models (both at 662 grams[3]) are 49 grams heavier for the AT&T model and 55 grams heavier for the Verizon model compared to the respective iPad 2 3G models (AT&T 3G iPad 2 is 613 grams, and Verizon 3G iPad 2 is 607 grams).[69]

There are four physical switches on the third-generation iPad, including a home button near the display that returns the user to the home screen, and three plastic switches on the sides: wake/sleep and volume up/down, plus a software-controlled switch whose function varies with software update.[3] The display responds to other sensors: an ambient light sensor to adjust screen brightness and a 3-axis accelerometer to sense orientation and to switch between portrait and landscape modes. Unlike the iPhone and iPod Touch's built-in applications, which work in three orientations (portrait, landscape-left and landscape-right), the iPad's built-in applications support screen rotation in all four orientations, including upside-down. Consequently, the device has no intrinsic "native" orientation; only the relative position of the home button changes.[3]

The tablet is manufactured either with or without the capability to communicate over a cellular network; all models can connect to a wireless LAN. The third-generation iPad optionally has 16, 32, or 64 GB of internal flash memory, with no expansion option. Apple sells a "camera connection kit" with an SD card reader, but it can only be used to transfer photos and videos.[3]

The audio playback of the third-generation iPad has a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Without third-party software it can play the following audio formats: HE-AAC, AAC, Protected AAC, MP3, MP3 VBR, Audible formats (2, 3, 4, AEA, AAX, and AAX+), ALAC, AIFF, and WAV.[3] A preliminary tear-down of the third-generation iPad by IHS iSuppli showed the likely costs for a 16 GB Wi-Fi + Cellular model at $358.30, 32 GB at $375.10, and 64 GB at $408.70 respectively.[70]

This iPad uses an internal rechargeable lithium-ion polymer (LiPo) battery. The batteries are made in Taiwan by Simplo Technology (60%) and Dynapack International Technology.[71] The iPad is designed to be charged with a high current of 2 amps using the included 10 W USB power adapter and USB cord with a USB connector at one end and a 30-pin dock connector at the other end. While it can be charged by an older USB port from a computer, these are limited to 500 milliamps (0.5 amps). As a result, if the iPad is in use while powered by a computer, it may charge very slowly, or not at all. High-power USB ports found in newer computers and accessories provide full charging capabilities.[72]

Apple claims that the battery can provide up to 10 hours of video, 140 hours of audio playback, or one month on standby; people say the battery lasts about 8 hours doing normal tasks.[73] Like any rechargeable battery, the iPad's battery loses capacity over time. However, the iPad's battery is not user-replaceable. In a program similar to iPod and iPhone battery-replacement programs, Apple promised to replace an iPad that does not hold an electrical charge with a refurbished unit for a fee of US$99 plus $6.95 shipping.[74][75] User data is not preserved/transferred. The refurbished unit comes with a new case.[76] The warranty on the refurbished unit may vary between jurisdictions.

Accessories

[edit]
Main article: iPad accessories

The Smart Cover, introduced with the iPad 2, is a screen protector that magnetically attaches to the face of the iPad. The cover has three folds which allow it to convert into a stand, which is also held together by magnets. The Smart Cover can also assume other positions by folding it.[77] While original iPad owners could purchase a black case that included a similarly folding cover, the Smart Cover is simpler, easily detachable, and protects only the screen. Smart Covers have a microfiber bottom that cleans the front of the iPad, and wakes up the unit when the cover is removed. It comes in five colors of both polyurethane and the more expensive leather.[78][79]

Apple offers several other accessories,[80] most of which are adapters for the proprietary 30-pin dock connector, the only port besides the headphone jack.[3] A dock holds the iPad upright at an angle, and has a dock connector and audio line-out port. The iPad can use Bluetooth keyboards that also work with Macs and PCs.[81] The iPad can be charged by a standalone power adapter ("wall charger") compatible with iPods and iPhones, and a 10-watt charger is included.[3]

Customers standing in line in front of an Apple Store. The line is very long.
Customers standing in line waiting to purchase the third-generation iPad
The camera of the third-generation iPad.
Critics praised the third-generation iPad's 5-megapixel camera with 1080p video recording.

Critical reception

[edit]

The third-generation iPad received positive reviews, receiving praise for its Retina display, camera, processor and LTE capabilities.[15][16][18] According to Walt Mossberg of All Things Digital, the new model "has the most spectacular display...seen in a mobile device" and holds the crown as "the best tablet on the planet."[66] Jonathan Spira, writing in Frequent Business Traveler, claimed that it "seems to make everything sharper and clearer."[17]

Issues

[edit]

Cellular problems

[edit]

Criticism followed the news that in markets outside the US, the tablet cannot communicate with LTE due to its use of 700 MHz and 700/2,100 MHz frequencies, respectively, versus 800 MHz, 1.8 GHz and 2.6 GHz used elsewhere.[82][83] Soon after the launch, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) took Apple to court for breaking four provisions of Australian consumer law. They alleged that Apple's promotion of the tablet in Australia as the 'iPad Wi-Fi + 4G' misled customers, as the name indicates that it would work on Australia's then-current 4G network.[84][85] Apple responded to this by offering a full refund to all customers in Australia who purchased the Wi-Fi + Cellular model (when it was previously named "Wi-Fi + 4G") of the iPad.[13]

On April 20, 2012, Apple stated that HSPA+ networks in Australia are 4G, even though the speeds are slower than that of LTE.[86] A month later, on June 21, 2012, Apple was sued for A$2.25 million for false advertising in Australia. In its advertisements Apple claimed that the new iPad was 4G LTE compatible. However, it didn't work with the Telstra LTE mobile data network in Australia. Apple was fined A$2.25 million and was ordered to pay A$300,000 in costs.[87]

Apple agreed to remove all references to 4G (LTE) capability in its UK advertising but as of August had not done so. There was no widespread 4G (LTE) network in the UK at the time, and the third-generation iPad would also be incompatible with future 4G (LTE) networks when they did roll-out there. The Advertising Standards Authority received consumer complaints on the matter. Apple offered to refund customers who bought the device after being misled by the advertising.[88] The result of numerous complaints and lawsuits against Apple regarding the use of the term 4G in their advertisements prompted Apple to rename its "4G" service to "Cellular", with this change appearing on Apple's website on May 13, 2012.[11][12]

Overheating

[edit]

Many users reported abnormally high temperatures on the casing of the unit, especially after running 3D games. If used while plugged in, the rear of the new iPad became as much as 12 °F (6.7 °C) hotter than an iPad 2. The difference unplugged was 13 °F (7.2 °C). Thermal imaging tests revealed that the iPad can reach 116 °F (47 °C). At this temperature it was warm to touch but not uncomfortable when held for a brief period.[89][90][91] In a follow-up report, Consumer Reports said, they "don't believe the temperatures we recorded in our tests of the new iPad represent a safety concern."[92]

Performance

[edit]

The claimed superiority of the A5X over the Tegra 3 processor was questioned around launch time by competitor Nvidia; some benchmarks later confirmed the iPad's superiority in graphics performance, while other benchmarks show that the Tegra 3 has greater performance in some areas.[93][94]

Criticism

[edit]

Consumer Reports gave the third-generation iPad a top rating and recommendation, claiming that the tablet was "superb", "very good", and "very fast", and that the 4G network, the Retina display, and overall performance were positive attributes. They elaborated on the display quality, stating that the third-generation iPad was "the best we've seen". The iPad's new display was a large enough improvement to prompt Consumer Reports to rate it "excellent," and consequently downgraded the display of other tablets (including the iPad 2) from "excellent" to "very good."[19][95] As with the preceding models (see the parent article on the iPad), iOS' closed and proprietary nature garnered criticism, particularly by digital rights advocates such as the Electronic Frontier Foundation, computer engineer and activist Brewster Kahle, Internet-law specialist Jonathan Zittrain, and the Free Software Foundation who protested the iPad's introductory event and have targeted the iPad with their "Defective by Design" campaign.[96]

Commercial reception

[edit]

Pre-orders were so high for the third-generation iPad that later orders were quoted shipping times of "two to three weeks" after the order was placed.[97][98] Apple said that "customer response to the new iPad has been off the charts and the quantity available for pre-order has been purchased."[35] Despite the delayed shipping, many users chose to purchase the iPad online instead of waiting in line at the Apple Store.[99] According to an Apple press release, three million units were sold in the first three days.[1][21] The iPad was purchased mainly by a younger, male demographic. Most of the buyers were either "die-hard Apple fans" or had previously purchased an iPad.[100] An Apple retailer in Dayton, Ohio, claimed that the demand for the tablet was "chaotic" and claimed that its launch was "drastically more significant than the iPad 2 launch."[7] By Q2 of 2012, Apple would hit an all-time high, claiming 69.6 percent of the global tablet market.[101]

Timeline

[edit]
Timeline of iPad models
iPad Pro (M5)iPad Pro (M4)iPad Pro (6th generation)iPad Pro (5th generation)iPad Pro (4th generation)iPad Pro (3rd generation)iPad Pro (2nd generation)iPad Pro (1st generation)iPad Pro (M5)iPad Pro (M4)iPad Pro (6th generation)iPad Pro (5th generation)iPad Pro (4th generation)iPad Pro (3rd generation)iPad Pro (2nd generation)iPad Pro (1st generation)iPad Air (M3)iPad Air (M2)iPad Air (5th generation)iPad Air (4th generation)iPad Air (3rd generation)iPad Air 2iPad Mini (A17 Pro)iPad Mini (6th generation)iPad Mini (5th generation)iPad Mini 4iPad Mini 3iPad Mini 2iPad Mini (1st generation)iPad Air (1st generation)iPad (A16)iPad (10th generation)iPad (4th generation)iPad (4th generation)iPad (3rd generation)iPad (9th generation)iPad (8th generation)iPad (7th generation)iPad (6th generation)iPad (5th generation)iPad 2iPad (1st generation)
See also: List of Apple products

Source: Apple Newsroom Archive.[102]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

IPad (3rd generation)

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The (3rd generation) is a developed and marketed by , announced on March 7, 2012, and released on March 16, 2012. It features a 9.7-inch with 2048×1536 resolution at 264 pixels per inch, the first such high-density screen in the iPad lineup, enabling sharper visuals for media consumption and productivity. Powered by the custom dual-core processor with quad-core graphics, it offered improved performance over predecessors while supporting up to 10 hours of battery life for use. Available in Wi-Fi-only and cellular models with optional 4G LTE connectivity, the device came in 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB storage variants and included a 5-megapixel rear camera capable of video recording, alongside a front-facing VGA camera for . Running 5.1 at launch (upgradable to 9.3.5), it introduced voice dictation and enhanced integration in later updates. The third-generation iPad achieved strong initial sales, with Apple reporting record weekend figures shortly after release, reflecting consumer demand for its display and processing upgrades. Despite positive critical reception for its hardware advancements, the model had a brief market lifespan of about seven months before being discontinued in October 2012, superseded by the fourth-generation iPad with incremental improvements like a faster A6X chip and Lightning connector. This rapid replacement cycle drew retrospective criticism for rendering the iPad 3 obsolete sooner than expected, particularly as its 30-pin connector became outdated and software support ended earlier than for later models.

Development and Announcement

Announcement Details

Apple announced the third-generation on March 7, 2012, during a special media event held at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in , . The event invitations were distributed by Apple on February 28, 2012, featuring a shadowed outline of an iPad and the tagline "We have something to show you," building following the iPad 2's in 2011. The keynote presentation was led by Apple CEO , who introduced the device under the marketing name "the new ," eschewing a explicit generational designation like " 3" in official communications. Cook emphasized the product's advancements, including a high-resolution , an upgraded A5X processor, a 5-megapixel rear camera, and support for 4G LTE connectivity in select models. The announcement aligned with Apple's strategy of iterative hardware updates, positioning the new as a significant evolution while maintaining compatibility with existing apps. Pre-orders for models began immediately following the event, with availability set for March 16, , reflecting strong initial demand evidenced by rapid sell-outs reported by retailers. The event also included updates to Apple TV, but the iPad unveiling dominated coverage, underscoring its role as Apple's flagship tablet product.

Design and Engineering Choices

The third-generation iPad prioritized visual fidelity through the adoption of a , featuring a 9.7-inch LED-backlit IPS panel with 2048-by-1536 resolution at 264 , enabling over 3.1 million for enhanced text sharpness and image detail. This engineering decision, extending iPhone-level to a larger tablet form factor, posed manufacturing challenges due to the high on a 10-inch screen, necessitating precise arrangement and backlighting optimizations to achieve uniform brightness and color accuracy without excessive power draw. The display's implementation doubled the pixel count from the prior generation, driving requirements for ancillary components like a larger battery to sustain 10-hour usage despite quadrupled rendering demands. To support the Retina display's computational intensity, Apple engineered the A5X system-on-a-chip, retaining the dual-core A5 CPU architecture but integrating a quad-core PowerVR SGX543MP4 graphics processor for up to four times the graphical performance of the iPad 2. This design rationale focused on graphics augmentation over CPU upgrades, as the higher-resolution output primarily strained rendering pipelines for applications, games, and video playback, ensuring fluid decoding and UI responsiveness without thermal throttling under sustained loads. The A5X's 45-nanometer process and integrated design allowed efficient power scaling tailored to the iPad's media-centric use cases, though it traded some single-threaded efficiency for parallel graphics workloads. Build choices emphasized durability and heat dissipation, utilizing an aluminum unibody rear shell with a Gorilla Glass front, but the device measured 9.4 mm thick—0.6 mm more than the iPad 2—to house a 42.5-watt-hour battery, compensating for the Retina display and A5X's power needs while preserving runtime. This thickness increase, coupled with a 662-gram weight for Wi-Fi models, reflected engineering trade-offs prioritizing sustained performance over minimalism, as the expanded battery mitigated efficiency losses from denser pixels and enhanced GPU, avoiding the need for aggressive power gating that could compromise display quality. Connectivity engineering incorporated optional 4G LTE via Qualcomm modems, with antenna designs optimized for global band support, though this variant added minimal thickness at the cost of slightly reduced battery life under cellular use.

Release and Commercial Launch

Availability and Variants

The third-generation iPad launched on March 16, 2012, initially available in ten countries: , , , , , , , , the , and the . Availability expanded to additional markets on March 23, 2012, including , , , , , , , , , , the , , , , , , , and . Further rollouts occurred in April and May 2012 to regions such as , , , and , completing global distribution by mid-2012. It was offered in two connectivity variants: Wi-Fi-only models and Wi-Fi + Cellular models supporting 4G LTE on compatible networks, with the latter including GSM/CDMA compatibility for carriers like AT&T and Verizon in the United States. All models shared a 9.7-inch Retina display, A5X processor, and other core hardware, differentiated primarily by storage capacities of 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB of internal flash memory. Color options consisted of black or white front glass panels across all configurations. No higher storage tiers or additional form factors, such as mini variants, were introduced for this generation.

Pricing Strategy

The third-generation iPad maintained the same introductory pricing structure as its predecessor, with the 16 GB -only model launching at $499 on March 16, 2012, followed by 32 GB and 64 GB variants at $599 and $699, respectively. + LTE models, compatible with or Verizon networks, added a $130 premium across storage tiers, starting at $629 for 16 GB. This unsubsidized pricing emphasized full retail sales without carrier discounts, aligning with Apple's premium hardware approach. Despite incorporating costly upgrades such as the , A5X processor, and LTE connectivity—which raised production costs by about 30% to $316 for the base model—Apple opted against price increases to sustain broad accessibility and encourage upgrades from owners. This decision countered pre-launch rumors of hikes to $579 and preserved profit margins through high-volume sales, with the $499 entry point positioned as a "sweet spot" that cannibalized some laptop demand while maximizing revenue per unit. Concurrently, Apple reduced prices to $399, creating a tiered lineup to capture budget-conscious buyers without diluting the new model's perceived value.
ModelWi-Fi Only (USD)Wi-Fi + LTE (USD)
16 GB$499$629
32 GB$599$729
64 GB$699$829
The strategy prioritized market dominance over short-term margin expansion, enabling over 3 million units sold in the first three days and reinforcing iPad's leadership in the tablet segment amid rising competition.

Marketing and Sales Launch

Apple announced the third-generation , branded as "the new iPad," on March 7, 2012, during a special event in , emphasizing its with 3.1 million pixels for enhanced sharpness and detail, integration of dictation, a 5-megapixel rear camera, and optional 4G LTE connectivity via the A5X processor. The marketing positioned the device as a significant upgrade in visual fidelity and performance over prior models, with CEO highlighting its capability to deliver "unbelievable detail" in and tasks. Pre-orders commenced immediately following the announcement, with availability starting March 16, 2012, in ten initial markets including the , , , , , , , , , and the , where Apple Stores opened at 8:00 a.m. . Global launch enthusiasm manifested in long queues outside Apple retail locations, reflecting strong driven by the promoted hardware advancements. Apple reported selling three million units within the first three days of availability, surpassing initial weekend sales expectations and underscoring the effectiveness of the feature-focused in capturing . Expansion to additional countries followed in subsequent weeks, further boosting sales momentum.

Hardware Overview

Physical Design and Build Quality

The third-generation iPad retained the overall form factor of its predecessor, the , measuring 9.50 inches (241.2 mm) in height, 7.31 inches (185.7 mm) in width, and 0.37 inches (9.4 mm) in depth. This represented a slight increase in thickness of approximately 0.6 mm compared to the iPad 2's 0.34 inches (8.8 mm), necessitated by the integration of the higher-resolution , upgraded A5X processor, and expanded battery capacity. The model weighed 1.44 pounds (652 g), while the Wi-Fi + Cellular variant was marginally heavier at 1.46 pounds (662 g). The device featured a recyclable aluminum and enclosure, with an arsenic-free front panel protecting the display and an aluminum unibody back for structural . The construction adhered to Apple's environmental standards, being free of mercury, BFR, and PVC. Available in black or white finishes, the design emphasized a premium, seamless aesthetic with chamfered edges, consistent with Apple's philosophy at the time. Build quality was characterized by robust assembly, providing a and durable feel during normal use, though the extensive use of to secure the front panel and internal components significantly hindered repairability. Independent teardown analysis assigned it a repairability score of 2 out of 10, citing difficulties in accessing the battery and display without risking damage, which complicated common repairs and recycling efforts. Despite these challenges, the enclosure's materials contributed to resistance against everyday wear, with no widespread reports of structural failures in contemporary reviews.

Display and Visual Technology

The third-generation iPad introduced Apple's technology to the iPad series, featuring a 9.7-inch diagonal LED-backlit glossy widescreen IPS LCD panel. This display achieves a of 2048 × 1536 pixels, delivering a of 264 pixels per inch, which quadruples the 1024 × 768 resolution of prior models for enhanced clarity in text, images, and video. The IPS technology provides wide viewing angles up to 178 degrees horizontally and vertically, maintaining color accuracy and contrast when viewed off-axis, while the LED backlight supports a 4:3 optimized for reading and document viewing. Multi-touch capabilities extend to five simultaneous contact points, enabling precise for pinch-to-zoom, swiping, and other interactions integral to navigation. The glossy surface coating boosts perceived color saturation and black levels in controlled lighting but introduces reflections in brighter conditions, a trade-off inherent to the non-matte design chosen for optical performance. At launch on March 16, 2012, this configuration represented the highest resolution mobile display available, with over 3.1 million s, surpassing competitors in pixel count for tablet-sized screens.

Processor, Memory, and Storage

The iPad (3rd generation) utilizes the Apple system-on-a-chip (SoC), featuring a dual-core CPU and quad-core (GPU) designed for high performance and low power consumption. This processor represents an evolution from the A5 in the prior iPad model, primarily through the addition of two extra GPU cores to handle the demands of the Retina display's higher resolution. The CPU employs an architecture clocked at 1 GHz. The device is equipped with 1 GB of LPDDR2 RAM, sufficient for multitasking and graphics-intensive applications at the time of release but limited by modern standards. Independent benchmarks confirmed this configuration, noting its adequacy for but constraints in sustaining high frame rates under prolonged GPU loads due to thermal throttling. Storage consists of non-volatile in capacities of 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB, with no option for user expansion or . These variants catered to different user needs, from basic to more extensive app and file storage, while maintaining the device's slim form factor.

Battery Life and Thermal Management

The third-generation iPad incorporated a 42.5-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery, enlarged by approximately 70% over the second-generation model's 25-watt-hour capacity to offset the elevated power requirements of its and A5X system-on-chip. Apple specified up to 10 hours of operation for web browsing, video playback, or music listening, and up to 9 hours for cellular models under usage, with full charging requiring around 5-9 hours via the included 10-watt adapter. Real-world testing and user reports largely validated these claims for typical workloads, with many achieving 10 hours or more in mixed light-to-moderate use such as reading, browsing, and , though graphics-intensive applications like 3D gaming or LTE data streaming could reduce runtime by 20-30%. The larger battery maintained parity with the iPad 2's endurance despite the hardware upgrades, as the A5X's dual-core CPU and quad-core graphics—optimized for the 2048x1536 resolution—drew roughly twice the power under load compared to the prior A5 chip. Thermal management relied on through the device's aluminum unibody enclosure, which served as a without active fans or dedicated thermal throttling beyond standard power management. The combination of the power-hungry A5X processor, high-pixel-density display backlight, and increased battery size resulted in higher operating temperatures, with surface hotspots reaching up to 116°F (47°C) during prolonged intensive tasks like video rendering or gaming. Early user complaints highlighted occasional on-screen overheating warnings and discomfort from rear-panel warmth exceeding 100°F (38°C) in ambient room conditions, particularly during setup or LTE activation, prompting informal "heatgate" discussions. These effects stemmed causally from the physics of denser computational workloads— the A5X's graphics unit alone consumed up to 10 watts peak versus the A5's 5 watts—without corresponding improvements in or ventilation. Apple did not issue recalls or mitigations beyond advising reduced and case removal, asserting temperatures remained within operational tolerances, though independent tests confirmed a 10-15°C rise over the under equivalent loads. While not indicative of manufacturing defects, the elevated thermals underscored trade-offs in prioritizing performance density over sustained low-heat operation.

Connectivity and Input Features

The iPad (3rd generation) provided connectivity supporting 802.11a/b/g/n standards with dual-band (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) capability. It incorporated 4.0 technology for wireless peripheral connections, such as keyboards, mice, and audio devices. Cellular variants enabled LTE data access, with supported frequency bands varying by model and carrier; for instance, models handled LTE on 700 MHz and 2100 MHz bands, alongside UMTS/HSPA/HSPA+/DC-HSDPA on 850, 900, 1900, and 2100 MHz, and /EDGE on 850, 900, 1800, and 1900 MHz. Verizon models supported LTE on bands 13 (700 MHz) and CDMA EV-DO Rev. A on 800 and 1900 MHz. Physical connectivity included a 30-pin for charging, , and accessory attachment, alongside a 3.5-mm stereo headphone minijack for wired audio output and input. The device lacked USB host functionality or expandable storage ports, relying on internal options for handling. Primary user input occurred via a capacitive display responsive to up to 10 simultaneous touches, enabling gestures for and interaction. Integrated sensors comprised a three-axis for orientation detection, an for motion sensing, an for automatic brightness adjustment, and a digital (magnetometer). Audio input was handled by a built-in supporting voice recording and calls. Visual input featured a rear-facing 5-megapixel camera capable of 1080p HD video recording at 30 fps with and backside-illuminated for improved low-light performance, paired with a front-facing VGA camera for video calls and selfies. Cellular models added Assisted GPS for location services, absent in Wi-Fi-only variants.

Software Capabilities

Operating System and Initial Features

The third-generation iPad launched pre-installed with , a minor update to released by Apple on March 7, 2012, five days prior to the device's availability. This version optimized the operating system for the iPad's new hardware, including rendering at the display's 2048-by-1536 resolution and supporting the rear-facing 5-megapixel camera's capabilities such as video recording at 30 frames per second and LED flash integration. Key initial software features emphasized seamless user interaction without a computer, enabled by iOS 5's over-the-air updates and wireless setup via . provided automatic syncing of photos, contacts, calendars, and app data across Apple devices, with Photo Stream allowing up to 1,000 recent photos to share wirelessly without manual transfers. aggregated app alerts in a non-intrusive pull-down panel, accessible from the or , reducing interruptions while keeping users informed. enabled free text messaging, photo sharing, and group chats over or cellular data, distinct from for Apple device interoperability. iOS 5.1 introduced dictation as a new for the iPad, leveraging server-side to convert voice to text in apps like and Notes, activated via a microphone icon on the keyboard. This feature supported English, French, and German initially, aiding productivity without full voice assistant functionality like , which was absent at launch and hardware-limited to later updates. Multitasking on the iPad included four-finger gestures—such as swiping to switch apps or pinching to preview open tasks—along with background app refresh for , calendars, and news feeds. browser enhancements comprised reading list for offline article saving, tabbed browsing, and full-screen mode, while Newsstand organized and subscriptions into a dedicated shelf. Pre-installed applications included for web browsing, with threaded conversations, for viewing and editing images with face detection, and the for downloading third-party software. facilitated multiplayer gaming and achievements, and enabled wireless streaming of video, audio, and screen mirroring to compatible TVs or speakers. iOS 5.1 also fixed prior bugs, such as improving battery life during video playback and allowing photo deletion from Photo Stream albums. These elements formed the baseline software ecosystem, prioritizing stability and integration over major overhauls.

User Interface Enhancements

The third-generation iPad launched with iOS 5.1, which introduced a redesigned camera application interface optimized for the device's larger 9.7-inch screen, featuring full-screen controls for photo and video modes that replaced the scaled-down iPhone-style layout used in prior iPad models. This update provided more intuitive access to zoom, exposure adjustments, and mode switching via prominent on-screen buttons, improving for tablet-specific interactions. iOS 5.1 also added dictation support as a core input enhancement, allowing users to convert spoken words to text directly within apps via a microphone icon in the keyboard, initially available in U.S. English. This feature leveraged the iPad's improved microphones and processing to enable hands-free typing, reducing reliance on physical or on-screen keyboards for longer entries, though accuracy depended on clear audio input and was limited by early constraints. The was further refined to fully support the display's 2048×1536 resolution, with system elements like icons, text, and animations automatically scaled and rendered at double the for sharper visuals without requiring developer updates for basic functionality. Legacy apps appeared pixel-doubled rather than blurry, while native high-resolution assets in updated apps delivered crisper interfaces, enhancing and across the OS. Overall, these changes contributed to a more fluid and visually precise experience, though third-party app compatibility varied until developers optimized for the higher resolution.

Update History and Limitations

The third-generation iPad shipped with 5.1, released on March 16, 2012, which introduced initial support for the device's hardware including the and A5X processor. Subsequent major version updates included (September 2012), which added features like and improved integration; (September 2013), featuring a redesigned with flatter aesthetics and enhanced multitasking; (September 2014), introducing interactive notifications, Continuity features for cross-device integration, and the Health app; and (September 2015), which emphasized stability with low-level optimizations, proactive suggestions, and Notes app enhancements. These updates progressively added functionality while addressing bugs and security issues, though performance degraded on the aging hardware in later versions due to increased system demands. Support ended with iOS 9.3.5 for Wi-Fi models, released on August 25, 2016, and iOS 9.3.6 exclusively for cellular models on July 22, 2019, the latter providing targeted patches for vulnerabilities without broader feature additions. Apple excluded the iPad 3rd generation from and subsequent releases, citing hardware incompatibility. The primary limitation stemmed from the A5X system's 32-bit ARMv7 architecture and 512 MB , which failed to meet the 64-bit processor requirements (starting with the A6/A6X chips) and demands of iOS 10, rendering the device unable to boot or efficiently run newer . Post-support limitations include inability to install or update apps requiring or later, as the enforces minimum version compatibility, effectively stranding users from modern software ecosystems like advanced ARKit features or split-view multitasking refinements introduced afterward. risks escalated without patches for vulnerabilities discovered after , such as those exploitable via web or kernel flaws, increasing exposure to and data breaches in an era of heightened cyber threats. While remains functional for legacy tasks like basic web browsing or offline , its curtails utility for contemporary applications, with third-party developers largely abandoning support by 2017-2018 due to low market share.

Reception and Performance Evaluation

Professional Critical Reviews

Professional reviewers universally praised the third-generation iPad's , a 9.7-inch panel with 2048×1536 resolution and 264 pixels per inch, describing it as "stunning" and the best mobile screen available for sharp text, vibrant colors, and . The display's high contrast (839:1) and wide coverage enabled superior rendering of graphics and videos, making it a significant advancement over the iPad 2's 1024×768 screen, though average brightness measured around 304 cd/m², adequate for indoor use but less ideal in bright outdoor conditions. The A5X processor, featuring a dual-core 1 GHz CPU and quad-core PowerVR SGX543MP4 GPU, received acclaim for handling demanding tasks like gaming and 1080p video playback smoothly, with benchmarks such as Geekbench 2 scoring 759 points and GLBenchmark Egypt HD offscreen at 140 fps, roughly doubling graphical performance from the prior model. Reviewers highlighted the device's responsiveness in apps and multitasking, bolstered by 1 GB of RAM, positioning it as unmatched in the tablet ecosystem for app availability and optimization. The 5-megapixel rear camera with 1080p video recording was noted as a clear upgrade from the iPad 2's 0.7-megapixel sensor, producing good quality for casual photography despite lacking advanced features like flash. Optional 4G LTE connectivity on Verizon and models impressed testers with download speeds up to 22 Mbps, enabling fast app downloads and streaming without contracts, and including personal hotspot functionality on Verizon. Battery life aligned closely with Apple's claims, delivering about 10 hours on and 9 hours on LTE for mixed use, or up to 9.5 hours of web surfing, though full-brightness video playback extended to 12.8 hours in some tests. Criticisms centered on the device's increased thickness (9.4 mm versus 8.8 mm) and weight (662 grams model), attributed to the larger battery and components, making it feel less portable than the . Thermal management drew complaints during prolonged LTE or gaming sessions, with surface temperatures reaching 40.7°C under load, causing noticeable warmth but not triggering shutdowns. Some outlets questioned the upgrade value for owners, citing incremental changes beyond the display and LTE, while noting the need for adapters for /USB/SD connectivity and larger app storage due to Retina-optimized assets. Scores reflected strong endorsement: The Verge gave 9.3/10, calling it dominant in its class; awarded 8.7/10 for cementing Apple's lead; rated it 4.5/5 for its app ecosystem and screen; and NotebookCheck emphasized hardware excellence despite heat issues. Overall, critics viewed the third-generation as a refined powerhouse, excelling in visual and performance capabilities while exposing minor engineering trade-offs in thermals and .

Sales Figures and Market Performance

The third-generation iPad, released on March 16, 2012, recorded robust initial sales, with Apple announcing that 3 million units were sold worldwide within the first four days of availability. This figure surpassed expectations and reflected strong consumer demand, evidenced by extended shipping delays and long lines at Apple Stores. Apple did not publicly disclose model-specific cumulative sales figures for the third-generation iPad, which had a brief market lifespan before being discontinued on October 23, , in favor of the fourth-generation model. However, its launch contributed significantly to the company's overall iPad sales momentum; in Apple's fiscal second quarter of (ending March 24), total iPad units sold reached 11.8 million, a 151% increase year-over-year, with executives noting the new model's constrained supply amid high demand. For the full , Apple sold 58.31 million iPads across models, underscoring the line's growth during the third-generation's active period. In terms of market performance, the third-generation bolstered Apple's dominance in the tablet sector, where the iPad lineup captured 68% of global shipments in the second quarter of 2012, more than double that of competitors combined. Analyst projections for the year estimated Apple's tablet at around 61-72%, reflecting the model's role in sustaining and advantages against emerging Android alternatives, despite intensifying competition. The device's strong debut and market positioning helped drive tablet category expansion, though its quick highlighted Apple's of annual refreshes to maintain innovation perception.

Consumer Feedback and Usage Patterns

Upon release in March 2012, the third-generation received strong initial consumer approval, with 98% of owners reporting satisfaction in a survey, surpassing the 95% for the and ranking it highest among tablets. Of surveyed owners, 82% expressed being very satisfied, citing the display's sharpness and the A5X processor's improved performance for tasks like app loading and gaming as key positives. Users frequently highlighted seamless integration with the ecosystem, including responsive multitasking and the App Store's content variety, which enhanced everyday usability over prior models. Common complaints centered on hardware drawbacks, including overheating during intensive use like video streaming or LTE connectivity, which led to noticeable warmth and occasional throttling. Some early adopters reported backlight bleeding on the display and perceived fragility of the rear case, though these affected a minority and did not broadly erode satisfaction ratings. Battery life averaged around 9-10 hours for mixed web and video tasks, meeting expectations but drawing criticism in refurbished units where degradation shortened effective runtime. Usage patterns emphasized and light productivity; consumers predominantly employed the device for web browsing, video playback, e-reading, and casual gaming, leveraging the high-resolution screen for immersive viewing. Features like voice assistance and LTE models facilitated on-the-go information access, such as news or , while the supported educational and apps without heavy computational demands. Over time, as software updates ceased at iOS 9.3.5 in 2016, long-term users repurposed units for basic offline media storage, legacy 32-bit games incompatible with newer devices, or dedicated displays for static info like weather feeds, reflecting adaptation to its hardware constraints.

Issues and Technical Shortcomings

Hardware Defects and Reliability

The third-generation exhibited elevated operating temperatures compared to its predecessor, primarily due to the increased power demands of its 2048×1536 and the A5X system-on-chip's quad-core graphics processing unit, which drew up to 10 watts under load versus roughly 5 watts in the . Independent thermal imaging tests during gaming workloads recorded surface temperatures peaking at 116°F (47°C) on the rear casing, about 10°F (5.6°C) warmer than the under similar conditions, leading to user reports of discomfort and occasional automatic shutdowns with error messages. Apple asserted that these temperatures remained within designed operational limits (up to 95°F ambient, with internal components tolerating higher) and did not cause permanent hardware damage, attributing isolated shutdowns to software bugs or environmental factors rather than defects. This thermal profile contributed to marginally reduced real-world battery endurance despite Apple's unchanged 10-hour rating for video playback and web browsing; intensive graphics tasks consumed the 42.5 Wh battery faster, with some reviews noting up to 20% shorter runtime in GPU-heavy scenarios owing to the display's pixel density quadrupling power draw without proportional efficiency gains in the A5X. Over time, sustained heat exposure likely accelerated component aging, though no large-scale battery swelling or failure epidemics were documented, unlike later lithium-ion issues in other devices. User forums reported intermittent touch sensitivity degradation potentially linked to thermal stress on the digitizer, but these were not conclusively tied to manufacturing flaws. Early production runs faced isolated manufacturing variances, prompting Apple in April 2012 to request resellers return certain "defective" units for inspection, speculated to stem from component batch inconsistencies or assembly errors rather than systemic design faults. No formal recall ensued, and subsequent units showed improved consistency, but the device's 9.4 mm thickness—30% greater than the iPad 2 to accommodate the larger battery and cooling headroom—exacerbated perceptions of bulkiness and heat retention during prolonged use. Long-term reliability assessments indicate standard lithium-polymer degradation after 3–5 years, with heat-related throttling becoming more pronounced on aging hardware, though the absence of widespread catastrophic failures underscores adequate engineering margins for the era.

Performance Bottlenecks

The third-generation iPad's A5X system-on-chip, with its dual-core 1 GHz Cortex-A9 CPU and quad-core PowerVR SGX543MP4 GPU, faced primary bottlenecks in thermal management and sustained graphics performance due to the demands of driving a 2048x1536 Retina display—four times the pixel count of its predecessor. While initial benchmarks showed the GPU delivering approximately twice the graphics performance of the iPad 2's A5 chip, this gain was largely consumed by rendering the higher resolution, resulting in comparable effective output to the prior model under equivalent conditions. Sustained workloads, such as extended 3D gaming or HD video decoding, triggered significant heat buildup, with surface temperatures reaching 45–50 °C in the lower left quadrant near the battery and logic board, prompting thermal throttling to prevent component damage. This inefficiency stemmed from the A5X's fabrication on a , which offered limited power efficiency compared to later nodes, causing the quad-core GPU to draw excessive power—up to 10 watts under load—without adequate dissipation in the device's thin . Apple confirmed the behavior was within operational specifications (0–35 °C ambient), but independent tests indicated degradation of 10–20% after 10– of intensive GPU use due to dynamic voltage and . The 1 GB of LPDDR2 RAM, doubled from the iPad 2's 512 MB, mitigated some multitasking constraints but proved insufficient for seamless handling of memory-intensive applications alongside high-resolution , leading to occasional app reloads and interface stuttering in iOS 5.1. These limitations were evident in real-world scenarios; for instance, benchmarks like GLBenchmark's Egypt HD test showed initial frame rates of 30–40 fps dropping to 20–25 fps over prolonged runs on the iPad 3, versus more stable performance on competitors like the NVIDIA Tegra 3-equipped devices at lower resolutions. Apple rectified these issues in the fourth-generation iPad later in 2012 by introducing the more efficient A6X chip on a 32 nm process, which reduced thermal output while boosting CPU performance by 60% and GPU by 2x. By 2013, as iOS updates increased system demands, the A5X's bottlenecks contributed to the device's rapid transition to obsolescence for demanding tasks.

Cellular and Connectivity Problems

The third-generation iPad, released on March 16, 2012, faced notable cellular connectivity challenges, particularly with its and LTE implementations using the MDM9600 baseband modem. Users reported frequent signal drops, where the device would lose service entirely despite full bars, often requiring multiple daily power cycles or hard resets to restore functionality; this issue was specific to the new model and unaffected prior generations. These problems manifested internationally (e.g., in , , Germany, and the UK) and in select U.S. regions, with symptoms including intermittent data access, failure to detect networks, GPS malfunctions, and inability to switch to LTE after use. Speculated causes centered on software bugs in 5.1 or hardware/ deficiencies in the chipset, such as suboptimal driver integration or power regulation affecting radio performance; temporary mitigations like network resets or SIM replacements proved ineffective long-term, and Apple removed a support forum thread exceeding 100 posts on the topic without issuing a formal statement or patch. Additional patterns included data cessation on networks when was enabled, necessitating device restarts, and persistent LTE signal drops even in strong coverage areas on carriers like Verizon. Later user accounts described connections lapsing every 20-25 seconds on , temporarily alleviated by disabling location services and rebooting. Connectivity extended to Wi-Fi, where early complaints highlighted weak reception and inconsistent joining of networks, potentially tied to the BCM4334 chip's antenna tuning or interactions; hardware diagnostics often pointed to faulty Wi-Fi modules requiring logic board intervention for repair. These issues contributed to broader reliability concerns, with no definitive resolution from Apple beyond generic , underscoring integration challenges between the device's cellular and wireless subsystems.

Legacy and Long-term Assessment

Innovations and Contributions

The third-generation iPad, announced on March 7, 2012, introduced the Retina display as its primary visual innovation, featuring a 9.7-inch LED-backlit Multi-Touch screen with a resolution of 2048 by 1536 pixels at 264 pixels per inch, delivering over 3.1 million pixels—more than one million additional pixels compared to a standard HD television—and 44 percent greater color saturation than the prior model. This advancement enabled sharper text rendering and higher-fidelity image reproduction, significantly enhancing readability for digital publications and media consumption on tablets. Complementing the display, the device incorporated the A5X chip, a dual-core processor with a quad-core custom-designed by Apple to support the increased pixel workload while maintaining responsive performance for graphics-intensive applications and games. The A5X provided graphics capabilities up to four times faster than the preceding A5 chip, facilitating smoother rendering of high-resolution content without proportional increases in power draw. Connectivity saw the debut of ultrafast 4G LTE support on the , achieving download speeds up to 73 megabits per second on certain networks, marking Apple's first integration of cellular broadband in its tablet lineup and enabling faster web browsing, video streaming, and access compared to alternatives. The rear camera upgraded to 5 megapixels with improved autofocus and video recording, while the front FaceTime HD camera supported resolution, broadening utility for , , and video calls. These innovations contributed to elevating tablet hardware standards, particularly by demonstrating feasible high-resolution displays and LTE integration in battery-constrained form factors, influencing competitors to prioritize similar pixel densities and cellular options in subsequent models. The display's implementation set a benchmark for visual quality in the category, pressuring to enhance screen technologies to compete in premium segments, though the 's closed ecosystem amplified the practical impact on app development and . Overall, the third-generation reinforced Apple's dominance in defining tablet capabilities, with its and display advances enabling more sophisticated and applications that expanded the device's role beyond basic consumption.

Rapid Obsolescence Factors

The third-generation iPad, released on March 16, 2012, was discontinued after only 221 days of availability on October 23, 2012, following Apple's announcement of the fourth-generation model, marking one of the shortest product cycles in the iPad lineup and accelerating its replacement in the market. This rapid succession rendered the device outdated almost immediately for consumers seeking the latest features, as the iPad 4 introduced the A6X processor—offering roughly double the CPU performance of the iPad 3's A5X chip—along with the Lightning connector, replacing the older 30-pin port for improved compatibility with future accessories and charging standards. Software support further hastened obsolescence, with the device capped at 9.3.5 ( model) or 9.3.6 (cellular model), released in 2016, beyond which its 1 GB of RAM and A5X hardware failed to meet the minimum requirements for subsequent versions. By 2025, this limitation excludes the iPad 3 from all modern apps and services requiring or later, exposing users to unpatched vulnerabilities and rendering it incompatible with contemporary web standards, streaming platforms, and that demand higher computational resources. Hardware constraints compounded these issues, including non-upgradable 1 GB RAM and storage options limited to 16–64 GB, which proved insufficient for evolving app demands and multitasking even shortly after launch, while battery degradation over time—typical for lithium-ion cells in sealed devices—further diminished viability without service options post-vintage status declaration around 2019. In Apple's , where app developers align with current hardware capabilities, the iPad 3's fixed architecture prioritized initial performance over long-term scalability, leading to performance bottlenecks in graphics-intensive tasks by the mid-2010s.

Status and Viability in 2025

The iPad (3rd generation) has been without official software support from Apple since 2016, with the final updates being .3.5 for Wi-Fi-only models (released August 25, 2016) and .3.6 for cellular models (released July 22, 2019). This end-of-support status means no further patches or compatibility improvements, leaving the device exposed to unmitigated vulnerabilities in , which predates modern threats like those exploited in widespread attacks post-2016. As of October 2025, third-party app developers have largely abandoned compatibility, with the majority of offerings requiring or later, restricting functionality to legacy or sideloaded applications that may pose additional risks. Hardware viability remains marginal for basic, offline uses after 13 years of potential operation. The A5X processor and 512 MB RAM, adequate in 2012, now struggle with even lightweight tasks due to the power demands of the , resulting in frequent lag and thermal throttling under load. Battery degradation is common, with many units exhibiting reduced capacity (often below 80% health) from chemical aging, necessitating replacements that are increasingly difficult due to scarce parts and Apple's discontinued repair program for this model. User reports from 2025 indicate some devices function as dedicated media players or e-readers via cached content, but connectivity features like and cellular are insecure for any online activity, and physical components such as the digitizer or ports may fail without economical fixes. Overall, the iPad (3rd generation) holds no practical viability for contemporary needs in 2025, serving primarily as a collectible or disposable secondary device rather than a reliable tool. Its rapid transition to underscores the short lifecycle of early tablet hardware, where software incompatibility compounds hardware limitations, deterring all but niche, low-stakes applications. Repurposing efforts, such as jailbreaking for , yield inconsistent results and introduce further instability without addressing core security gaps.

References

  1. https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2012/03/07Apple-Launches-New-iPad/
  2. https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_ipad_3_wi_fi-4621.php
  3. https://support.apple.com/en-us/111992
  4. https://everymac.com/systems/apple/ipad/specs/apple-ipad-3rd-gen-early-2012-wi-fi-only-specs.html
  5. https://www.redmondpie.com/tim-cook-apple-sold-record-number-of-ipads-3rd-gen-over-weekend/
  6. https://www.theverge.com/2012/2/28/2829143/apple-ipad-3-event-march-7th-official
  7. https://www.ign.com/articles/2012/02/28/apple-announces-march-7-ipad-3-event
  8. https://www.wired.com/2012/02/ipad-event-march-sf/
  9. https://allthingsd.com/20120228/apple-announces-march-7-ipad-event/
  10. https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/gadgets/apple-announces-new-ipad-apple-tv-flna351249
  11. https://www.cnn.com/2012/03/07/tech/mobile/ipad-3-announcement
  12. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/apple-announces-new-ipad-better-display-no-new-name/
  13. https://nypost.com/2012/03/07/apple-reveals-new-ipad-available-for-pre-order-immediately/
  14. https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2012/03/07/148119879/apple-expected-to-unveil-new-ipad
  15. https://www.cnet.com/science/ipad-3s-dense-display-a-challenge-for-manufacturers/
  16. https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2012/03/pixel-pumping-prowess-ars-reviews-the-third-generation-ipad/
  17. https://appleinsider.com/articles/19/11/08/a5x-how-apple-took-ipad-to-a-luxury-tier-rivals-couldnt-match
  18. https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/ipad-3-benchmark-review%2C3156-6.html
  19. https://www.dpreview.com/articles/5298186898/apple-ipad-3-third-generation-high-resolution-screen-and-iphoto-for-ios
  20. https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/ipad-3-benchmark-retina-display%2C3157-10.html
  21. https://www.cnet.com/tech/tech-industry/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-third-generation-ipad-faq/
  22. https://www.macrumors.com/2012/03/16/3rd-generation-ipad-launches-around-the-world/
  23. https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2012/03/14New-iPad-Arrives-in-the-US-Nine-Additional-Countries-on-Friday/
  24. https://igotoffer.com/apple/ipad-3
  25. https://www.redmondpie.com/ipad-3-announced-price-features-availability-everything-you-need-to-know/
  26. https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/technology/apples-ipad-price-hits-a-sweet-spot-between-popularity-and-profits/2012/03/05/gIQAHD3ftR_story.html
  27. https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2012/03/ipad-3-pricing-expected-to-stay-the-same-after-all/
  28. https://thepricingjournal.wordpress.com/2012/03/15/the-best-part-of-the-ipad-3rd-generation-its-price/
  29. https://www.christianpost.com/news/ipad-3-price-information-revealed.html
  30. https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2012/mar/16/new-ipad-on-sale-thousands-queue
  31. https://www.latimes.com/business/technology/la-fi-tn-apple-new-ipad-launch-roundup-20120316-story.html
  32. https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2012/03/apple-moves-3-million-ipad-3s-over-launch-weekend/
  33. https://www.theverge.com/2012/3/19/2885455/apple-new-ipad-sales
  34. https://www.forbes.com/sites/connieguglielmo/2012/04/16/apples-ipad-reaches-out-will-go-on-sale-in-21-countries/
  35. https://www.itpro.com/639772/apple-ipad-3-vs-ipad-2-head-to-head-review
  36. https://www.ifixit.com/Teardown/iPad+3+4G+Teardown/8277
  37. https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/ipad-3-benchmark-retina-display%2C3157-4.html
  38. https://gizmodo.com/ipad-3-review-better-than-anything-else-but-kind-of-a-5895975
  39. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/4049651
  40. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/4056618
  41. https://www.cnet.com/tech/computing/apples-new-ipad-overheats-irate-users-complain/
  42. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2012-mar-20-sns-la-fi-tin-consumer-reports-ipad-20120320-story.html
  43. https://www.ibtimes.com/new-ipad-3-overheating-why-heatgate-claims-are-overblown-427922
  44. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/3811560
  45. https://www.cnn.com/2012/03/20/tech/gaming-gadgets/ipad-overheating
  46. https://www.infoworld.com/article/2303872/everyone-needs-to-cool-down-about-the-new-ipad-s-heat.html
  47. https://www.gsmarena.com/apple_ipad_3_wi_fi_%2B_cellular-4620.php
  48. https://everymac.com/systems/apple/ipad/ipad-faq/differences-between-ipad-3rd-gen-early-2012-models.html
  49. https://www.cnet.com/reviews/apple-ipad-march-2012-review/
  50. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6xAEi0UMfhw
  51. https://www.imore.com/ios-5-1-review
  52. https://forums.appleinsider.com/discussion/146748/in-depth-review-apples-third-generation-ipad-and-ios-5-1
  53. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMES58HydHo
  54. https://www.engadget.com/2012-06-11-siri-gets-a-number-of-changes-will-be-coming-to-third-generatio.html
  55. https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/a-closer-look-at-apples-ios-51/
  56. https://tidbits.com/2012/03/12/ios-5-1-brings-smattering-of-features-and-4g-confusion/
  57. https://www.differencebetween.com/difference-between-ios-5-and-vs-ios-5-1/
  58. https://www.bosstab.com/resources/tablet-guides/apple/specs/ipad/ipad-3rd-gen
  59. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254191482
  60. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/251259228
  61. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/8110545
  62. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/250983874
  63. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253625764
  64. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/251215210
  65. https://www.theverge.com/2012/3/14/2870533/ipad-review
  66. https://uk.pcmag.com/tablets/19361/apple-ipad-2012
  67. https://www.notebookcheck.net/Review-Apple-iPad-3rd-Gen-2012-4G-Tablet.71925.0.html
  68. https://www.[cnet](/page/CNET).com/reviews/apple-ipad-march-2012-review/
  69. https://money.cnn.com/2012/03/19/technology/apple-ipad-sales/index.htm
  70. https://www.macstories.net/news/apple-q2-2012-results-39-2-billion-revenue-35-1-million-iphones-11-8-million-ipads-sold/
  71. https://www.cnet.com/tech/tech-industry/apples-fiscal-2012-in-numbers-125m-iphones-58-31m-ipads/
  72. https://www.statista.com/chart/530/global-tablet-shipments-from-q2-2010-to-q2-2012/
  73. https://www.phonearena.com/news/Gartner-sees-the-iPad-maintaining-61-worldwide-market-share-in-2012_id29068
  74. https://macdailynews.com/2012/05/03/npd-apple-ipad-market-share-to-decrease-from-72-1-in-2012-to-50-9-in-2017/
  75. https://www.itpro.com/626419/ipad-to-dominate-tablet-market-until-2012
  76. https://www.macrumors.com/2012/04/02/new-ipad-garners-98-satisfaction-rating-tops-consumer-reports-rankings/
  77. https://www.investmentnews.com/fintech/new-ipad-consumer-reports-new-top-rated-tablet/43336
  78. https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/3rd-generation-ipad-reviews-retina-display-stunning-lte-speeds-impressive.1340747/
  79. https://cwl.cc/2012/05/review-ipad-3rd-generation.html
  80. https://www.wtol.com/article/news/early-ipad-3-complaints-include-temperature-fragility/512-3839ac38-ac97-4e76-a260-3949f34046ac
  81. https://www.techspot.com/review/514-apple-ipad-3/page3.html
  82. https://www.bestbuy.com/site/reviews/apple-pre-owned-ipad-3-16gb-black/5578037
  83. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2013/03/10-ways-you-can-make-best-use-of-your-ipad3/
  84. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/8252784
  85. https://www.eevblog.com/forum/general-computing/what-can-be-done-with-an-old-ipad-3-besides-throwing-it-out/
  86. https://www.phonearena.com/news/Surprise-Apple-says-theres-no-heat-issue-with-the-new-iPad_id28271
  87. https://www.techmeme.com/120320/p36
  88. https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/curious-what-is-everyones-problem-w-ipad-3.1668089/
  89. https://www.zdnet.com/article/why-apple-wants-to-capture-defective-3rd-gen-ipads/
  90. https://www.eevblog.com/forum/news/investigation-on-ipad-3-overheating/
  91. https://apple.stackexchange.com/questions/44802/how-significant-is-the-new-ipads-heat-issue
  92. https://osxdaily.com/2012/03/13/ipad-3-benchmarks-show-1gb-ram-and-1ghz-processor/
  93. https://liliputing.com/are-ipads-a5x-graphics-really-4x-faster-than-nvidia-tegra-3/
  94. https://appleinsider.com/articles/12/04/06/users_report_3g_connection_issues_with_apples_new_ipad
  95. https://www.idownloadblog.com/2012/04/06/ipad-3-4g-lte-issues-3g/
  96. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/3836552
  97. https://community.verizon.com/t5/Apple/iPad-3-constantly-dropping-strong-4G-LTE-signal/td-p/467451
  98. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/6897760
  99. https://appleinsider.com/articles/12/03/21/users_complain_of_weak_wi_fi_reception_with_apples_new_ipad.html
  100. https://www.ifixit.com/Device/iPad_3_Wi-Fi
  101. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/3987549
  102. https://www.engadget.com/2012-03-07-the-new-ipad-is-official.html
  103. https://www.realworldtech.com/ipad3-graphics/
  104. https://thenextweb.com/news/apple-introduces-new-ipad-with-retina-display
  105. https://www.digitaltrends.com/phones/third-generation-ipad-obsolete/
  106. https://www.techradar.com/news/mobile-computing/tablets/ipad-3-vs-ipad-4-the-key-differences-1106685
  107. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255680246
  108. https://www.macworld.com/article/2035481/how-long-does-apple-support-ipads.html
  109. https://endoflife.date/ipad
  110. https://mashable.com/article/apple-ipad-obsolete
  111. https://everyi.com/by-capability/maximum-supported-ios-version-for-ipod-iphone-ipad.html
  112. https://www.quora.com/Can-I-still-use-an-Apple-iPad-3rd-gen-in-2020-Will-it-still-update-the-software
  113. https://discussions.apple.com/thread/250289672
  114. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEjHMWu57TE
  115. https://www.reddit.com/r/ipad/comments/zzsdwl/my_tips_for_using_a_2012era_ipad_3_with_ios_935/
  116. https://uptradeit.com/blog/what-ipads-are-not-outdated
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.