Apple Replaces iPad 2 with iPad 4; Still $399

Shawn Farner -

Your $399 is about to go much further with Apple. According to a report from Ars Technica, the company is finally taking the iPad 2 out of its lineup, replacing it with the more recent fourth-generation model that debuted in late 2012.

This is notable for a few reasons. The iPad 4 has a Retina display, which is a huge upgrade over the lower-resolution display on the iPad 2. The fourth-generation model also touts a better processor and more memory. And the iPad 4 uses Apple’s Lightning port, which means you’ll be able to use your newer iOS accessories without the need for adapters.

The move fixes a problem with Apple’s iPad lineup, as well. The company was previously selling a much less capable iPad 2 at $399; the same price as the 16 GB iPad mini with Retina. The iPad 4 still isn’t as powerful as the newest iPad mini, but if you’re looking to pick up a 9.7-inch tablet without dropping a full half grand, it offers much more value at that $399 price point than the iPad 2 did.

If, for whatever reason, you still have your heart set on an iPad 2, 9 to 5 Mac’s Dan DeSilva offers this tip via Twitter:

I had my doubts about the device being worth $399 to begin with, and dropping it a mere $50 when a much better deal is on the way seems silly. It’ll be interesting to see what the iPad 2 sells for at retail clearance now that Apple isn’t artificially inflating its value. My guess? $250-$300, tops.

What do you think about Apple’s decision to kill the iPad 2 and replace it with the iPad 4? Is the fourth-generation model a much better deal or do you think both are too outdated to matter? Leave your thoughts below.