Apple Rare First-Generation iPad K48 Prototype with Unique Factory Glass Defect and 2009-Dated Components - Computer

Offered for sale is an authentic first-generation Apple iPad 2009/2010 prototype from the Pre-Production Validation Test (Pre-PVT) stage, featuring components from 2009 and an extremely rare glass defect. This exceptionally unique unit represents a genuine piece of the history of one of the world's most influential technology companies.

The first iPad was introduced by Steve Jobs in 2010, ushering in an entirely new category of mobile devices. The iPad revolutionized the market and played a significant role in shaping Apple into the company it is today. Since its launch, Apple has sold hundreds of millions of iPads, making it one of the most successful products in history.

This particular unit features the original “K48 Pre-PVT” marking on its logic board, test software, and numerous other characteristics associated with devices used during Apple's internal product development process. Particularly noteworthy is a unique manufacturing defect in the glass: an air bubble located directly inside the glass in the upper-left corner of the display. This is the only known prototype with this particular defect, further enhancing its uniqueness and collectible appeal.

The K48 designation visible on this unit's logic board has documented historical significance. The project's internal codename became publicly known through court documents associated with a 2010 FBI investigation into the leak of confidential information concerning Apple products. These documents identified K48 as the internal codename for the first-generation iPad. The K48 markings visible on this unit's logic board and 30-pin dock connector component are consistent with this historical context and add to the prototype's appeal as a collectible piece of Apple's early iPad development history.

This original Apple prototype represents a significant piece of the development history of one of the most groundbreaking devices of the 21st century. It offers an exceptional opportunity for collectors, museums, and enthusiasts of Apple's history, as a first-generation iPad prototype featuring this unique glass defect has never previously been offered for sale.


Here are the most important details about this device:

- The iPad has no engravings on the back, including the text "iPad", "Designed by Apple in California", FCC information, a serial number, or any other standard markings.

- There are several factory stickers on the back (including one dated 2012). The device was re-inventoried at Foxconn around the time of the 3rd generation iPad.

- There are two stickers on the front, one of which contains handwritten notes.

- Visible handwritten notes on the back include "RF", "WIFI", a serial number, and the number 142 (circled).

- The iPad has a test serial number beginning with YM00.

- The serial number does not appear in the database of mass-produced devices (Apple's serial number check website).

- The iPad is functional and still has the development software it was running during testing (including a rare MMI 402.6 version).

- The logic board is marked "K48 Pre-PVT" (K48 is the internal project codename for the original Apple iPad).

- Additional markings are visible on the logic board: HP12, 80T, HC01, and ET87.

- The part with the 30-pin dock connector is dated 2009 and is also marked "K48 Pre-PVT".

- The logic board is darker and glossier (with a different surface texture, more visible circuit traces) compared to logic boards used in mass-production units.

- The part with the 30-pin dock connector is also darker and glossier (with a different surface texture, more visible circuit traces).

- The digitizer ribbon cable is dated 2009.

- The iPad also has a factory glass defect in the form of an air bubble visible in the upper-left corner of the screen. This makes it even more unique and may attract collector interest, as such a prototype with a production defect has never previously been offered for sale.

- The iPad has a new battery, as the previous one was non-functional and slightly swollen (minor internal marks from the previous battery do not affect the operation of the device).



Additional Information


Technical Condition

The device was inspected and tested at a professional service center specializing in Apple products in Gdynia. The prototype is functional and works well. The battery was replaced with a new one because the original battery was no longer functional.


Packaging and Shipping

Given the value and collectible nature of this device, the entire packaging process will be documented. This will include the device's condition before packaging, the materials and methods used to secure it, and the final sealing of the parcel. This is intended to ensure transparency throughout the transaction.


Important Information for the Buyer

Please note that the first-generation iPad's screen was originally mounted using specialized metal clips. As a result, opening this device is difficult and requires special tools and the appropriate technical expertise.
After the purchase, I kindly ask the new owner to let me know how they would prefer the device to be secured:

Option 1: The iPad will be fully closed, with all metal clips installed, restoring it to its original assembled condition.

Option 2: The display will be secured using special tape that leaves no adhesive residue, while the original metal clips and screws will be included separately in a plastic bag.

The second option may be an excellent choice for a collector or researcher who intends to examine the prototype components inside the device.



The last eight photos have been included to illustrate the visible differences between components from a mass-produced iPad and those from the prototype.