iPad（第4世代）

歴史的背景

Development of a tablet computer by Apple began with the creation and introduction of the Newton based MessagePad 100 in 1993. Part of this development process led to the creation of the ARM6 core as a collaboration between Apple and Acorn Computers. Apple had at the same time developed a prototype tablet computer named the PenLite but did not release it as it did not wish to affect Newton sales. Several more Newton based PDAs were introduced until the MessagePad 2100, the final in the series of Apple PDAs, was discontinued in 1998. Development of tablet computer prototypes within Apple began as early as 2000. The development of the tablet, specifically Apple's multi-touch technology, was combined with the development of the iPhone and iPod Touch and included technology Apple had gained from its acquisition of FingerWorks in 2005. The product was announced on January 27, 2010 at an Apple press conference at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco. The device's imminent release had been rumored for several months with iSlate and iTablet among speculated names.