The Original Size of the iPad: A Strategic Decision

When Apple launched the first generation of the iPad, an important question arose: what size should the device be? The original size of 9.7 inches was not an arbitrary choice but the result of careful consideration and research.

Research and Design Process

The decision-making process behind the original iPad size involved a thorough analysis of existing tablet devices and user preferences. Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, entrusted this task to his team, who conducted extensive research to determine the optimal dimensions for a portable digital device.

Factors Influencing the Design

Several factors were considered in this research phase:

User Comfort and Portability: The size needed to be small enough to be portable but large enough for comfortable usage and for displaying content without strain. Screen-to-Body Ratio: A large screen compared to the body of the device makes for a better user experience but also requires careful design to ensure the device remains comfortable to hold. Content Viewing: The size had to be adequate to display multimedia content like videos and books, making the device a versatile companion for a wide range of activities. Accessory Compatibility: The size needed to be compatible with accessories like keyboards and protective cases.

Historical Context

Steve Jobs, in a biography authored by Walter Isaacson, mentioned the importance of the iPad’s size. According to the biography, Jobs believed that the size of the iPad had to be just right and not too large. This insight provides a glimpse into the strategic thinking behind the original iPad's dimensions.

Market Research and User Feedback

Before the release of the original iPad, Apple conducted extensive market research and gathered user feedback. This data helped Apple to refine the design and ensure that the final product met the needs and preferences of the target audience. The 9.7-inch size proved to be a balance between portability and usability, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications.

Conclusion

The original size of the iPad, at 9.7 inches, was a deliberate and well-considered decision that has had a significant impact on the device and the tablet market. While other sizes have come and gone, the 9.7-inch iPad remains a reference point for portable digital devices, embodying a balance between size, portability, and usability.

Further Reading

For more detailed information on the design and development of the original iPad, we recommend reading Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson and exploring Apple’s official history on their website.