Apple Quietly Replaces iPad Air 2 With $329 iPad

Apple products are not typically thought of as budget devices, but Cupertino today announced a brand new iPad model, and the focus is on affordability.

The new iPad is simply called the "iPad" with Apple marketing it as "best-in-class performance at its most affordable price ever." It costs $329 and replaces the iPad Air 2 ($445.00 at eBay) in the tablet lineup.

For your $329, Apple is offering a 9.7-inch iPad with a Retina display (2,048-by-1,536 resolution) and 32GB of storage powered by the 64-bit A9 processor (also found in the iPhone 6s ( at Amazon) ). It runs iOS 10, offers Wi-Fi and Touch ID, 8MP and FaceTime HD cameras, weighs 1 pound, and boasts 10 hours of battery life. Color options include Silver, Gold, and Space Gray. You may also be happy to hear it does retain the 3.5mm headphone jack.

Apple decided not to offer a 64GB storage option, instead jumping to 128GB, which will cost $429. If you want the extra storage and cellular, expect to pay $459. All options include a Lightning-to-USB cable and power adapter.

Apple will start accepting orders on Friday, March 24, with stock arriving in Apple Stores next week. This is a simultaneous release across the US, Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the UK. Denmark, India, Mexico, Norway, Russia, Turkey, Brazil, and Taiwan get it in May.

Apple points out that the iPad mini 4 ( at Amazon) does offer better value for money in terms of storage space compared to this new iPad. If you don't mind the smaller 7.9-inch display, the 128GB WiFi model costs $399.

Philanthropic iPhone fans, meanwhile, can also order a (PRODUCT)RED iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus on Friday, too. Get it with 128GB or 256GB of storage, starting at $749. Apple's budget iPhone SE, meanwhile, will also be available in in 32GB and 128GB models, starting at $399, replacing existing 16GB and 64GB models.