Some rather good news for iPad users, as Apple is trading in the fourth generation iPads for an iPad Air 2. Users who bring their iPad 4 for repairs or servicing are in for a surprise, as Apple is offering the upgraded iPad Air 2 as a replacement device.
iPad 4 owners might get a free upgrade to the iPad Air 2
That said, there’s a catch as the free upgrade can only be availed by customers whose iPad 4 meet certain criteria. First off, minor repairs and touch-ups won’t entitle you to get a free Air 2. Also, the offer is only valid at authorized Apple stores and service centers.
An internal memo obtained by 9to5Mac reads as follows:
“Starting March 30th, iPad 4th generation whole unit repairs may be substituted to iPad Air 2.”
The memo also notes that staff should inform users about things such as the color and the amount of storage capacity. In case you didn’t know, Apple earlier killed 16GB and 64GB models of the iPad Air 2. The recently introduced iPad Air 2 configurations include 32GB and 128GB. Besides, Apple also launched a new gold colored Air 2.
That said, there’s still no guarantee whether you’re iPad 4 will be replaced by the iPad Air 2. As it would depend on factors such as availability of stocks in specific regions, or if your iPad 4 qualifies for a free upgrade. Hence, interested users are advised to check with authorized Apple store and service centers if their iPad 4 is eligible for an upgrade.
However, users who do qualify for the newer iPad Air 2 are in a for a rather sweet deal. As the iPad Air 2 offers a slew of improvements over the iPad 4, including a faster processor, Touch ID fingerprint scanner integrated with the Home Button, improved front and rear cameras, along with a slimmer design and enhanced retina display.
There’s also a bump in internal memory with 32GB and 128GB storage configurations. In terms of choice of colors, the iPad Air 2 is offered in Space Grey, Silver, along with the newly introduced gold color variant.
Meanwhile, Apple also announced the latest iPad model late in March simply called iPad. Priced at $239, it comes with a 9.7-inch screen, A9 Chip, Touch ID, along with 8MP and a 1.2MP rear and front-facing camera. The device runs iOS 10 out-of-the-box.