In Pictures: The evolution of the tablet PC

We live in explosively innovative times for tablet computing and mobile apps. But it didn't all happen overnight. Most attempts to build a tablet-like computer, going back to the '70s, were not successful. Yet every failure was a lesson learned that led us to the iPad. Here's a look back at how the modern tablet came to be.

Apple iPad (2010)

Finally! Years of failed tablet releases culminated in a touch-screen tablet and media consumption device that was fun and easy to use. Apple got it right with the iPad, and the public pounced. Offering a beautifully designed 9.7-inch device containing thousands of apps, the iPad was reasonably priced (starting at $500) with different storage, Wi-Fi and 3G options. Though some skeptics saw it as merely a bigger iPhone, the iPad quickly became a sensation. Copy cats soon followed. Now in its third-generation, the iPad has added an ultra-sharp Retina display and 4G connectivity.

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