Apple has announced the release of a new model of its high-end tablet, the iPad Pro, which features significant internal upgrades compared to the previous M4 model. The most notable change is the introduction of the M5 chip, which Apple claims offers “up to 3.5x the AI performance” compared to last year’s version. In addition to the new processor, the iPad Pro now includes Apple’s C1X cellular modem for cellular models and an N1 chip for improved Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread connectivity. The device also boasts enhanced read and write speeds and supports fast charging, allowing up to 50 percent charge in approximately 30 minutes.
The 11-inch model of the iPad Pro starts at $999, while the 13-inch version is priced at $1,299. Both models are available for pre-order and are set to ship and be available in stores on October 22. The last significant upgrade to the iPad Pro occurred in May 2024, when the previous model introduced a new design, an OLED display, new accessories, and improved camera capabilities, while also debuting the M4 processor.
With the introduction of the new iPad Pro, Apple appears to be targeting users of older M1 models as the primary audience for upgrades, rather than those with the M4 model. The latest version is intended to enhance its capabilities further as a laptop alternative, especially with the advent of iPadOS 26, which allows for more flexible multitasking. This shift indicates a growing trend of functionality that blurs the lines between tablets and traditional laptops. As Apple continues to develop its hardware and software, questions arise regarding the future of the iPad Pro in relation to performance and usability.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/799352/apple-ipad-pro-m5-price-release-date