Skip to content

Apple's 8GB iPad Prototype: A Blast From the Past

Imagine an iPad with just 8GB of storage. This prototype, once considered by Apple, would have struggled to store apps, media, or even a few photos.

In this image we can see a person holding an iPad. In the background of the image there are trees...
In this image we can see a person holding an iPad. In the background of the image there are trees and building.

Apple's 8GB iPad Prototype: A Blast From the Past

Apple once pondered a budget iPad with just 8GB of storage, a stark contrast to today's 128GB starting point for iPhones and iPads. This prototype, intended for beginners or schools, was never released due to its limited functionality.

In 2011, Apple considered halving the storage of the iPad 2, which typically came with 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB. The prototype, manufactured by a Foxconn subsidiary in China, would have been the first iPad with only 8GB. Despite rumors circulating at the time, including from DigiTimes, the device was never launched.

The prototype iPad 2 was meant to be a more affordable option, but its limited storage would have made it impractical for most users. With only 8GB, it would have struggled to store apps, media, or even a few photos. This is a far cry from today's Macs, which start with at least 16GB of RAM, twice the storage of the prototype iPad 2.

The 8GB iPad prototype serves as a reminder of how storage needs have evolved over the years. While it was briefly considered as a budget-friendly option, its limited storage made it non-functional for practical use. Today, Apple starts its devices with much larger storage capacities to meet user demands.

Read also:

Latest