Apple launches new 10.2-inch 7th generation iPad with Smart Connector

During its September 10 iPhone event, Apple also launched a new iPad, which is meant to take the spot of the existing entry-level model. Apple says it's twice as fast as the previous model, and it contains a new 10.2-inch Retina display.

"The new iPad packs even more value into our most popular and affordable iPad model featuring a bigger 10.2-inch Retina display, support for Apple Pencil and for the first time, the full-size Smart Keyboard," said Greg Joswiak, Apple's vice president of Product Marketing in a statement.

It supports the Apple Pencil, but still only the first-generation model.

The new 10.2-inch iPad will be available to order from today, and will be shipping at the end of the month. It retails for $329 while education buyers will be able to get it for $299.

"The new iPad packs even more value into our most popular and affordable iPad model featuring a bigger 10.2-inch Retina display, support for Apple Pencil and for the first time, the full-size Smart Keyboard," said Greg Joswiak, Apple's vice president of Product Marketing. "The new iPad was built to run iPadOS, which introduces powerful new ways to multitask, manage and mark up documents, use Apple Pencil and view more information at a glance on a redesigned Home screen. This new iPad with iPadOS takes everything people love about our most popular iPad and makes it even better for creating, learning, working and playing."

While new iPads have been expected from Apple, leaks prior to the September 10 event were predicting an October release — and were also concentrating on updated iPad Pro models.