Apple iPad (4th generation): FaceTime HD, Lightning connector, A6X chip, $499

Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Apple, Handhelds

We all expected the iPad mini to be announced today, but not many people figured we would also get a new, 4th generation iPad. However, that's exactly what happened, as Apple strayed from its usual yearly update cycle, announcing a new full-sized iPad just six months after the last update. So, what's changed with the new iPad? For starters, it now packs in a new A6X processor, which Apple claims makes the new tablet twice as fast as its predecessor. It also brings a new FaceTime HD front camera, the new image processor technology that debuted on the iPhone 5, dual-band 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, and more LTE connectivity (including Sprint's network.) Last, but not least, the iPad also picks up the new Lightning connector, eliminating the 30-pin dock connector from all of Apple's current products.

Pricing remains the same across the board, so you can get the 4th generation iPad for $499 for the 16GB, $599 for 32GB, and $699 for 64GB. If you want an LTE model, just add $130 on top of those prices. The 4th generation iPad will go on sale on November 2nd, and you can pre-order one this Friday.

Be sure to check out all of the news from today's iPad mini event!