Apple has once again set the tech world abuzz with the launch of its new M4 chip-powered iPad Pro models. These new iPads are designed to deliver unprecedented performance, efficiency, and features that cater to both professional and personal use. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into every aspect of the new iPad Pro models, including their finish, capacity, size, weight, buttons, connectors, display, chip, camera, video recording, TrueDepth camera, video calling, audio calling, speakers, microphones, cellular capabilities, wireless connectivity, SIM card options, location services, sensors, Face ID, Apple Pay, Siri, charging and expansion, display support, power and battery, operating system, accessibility features, built-in apps, video playback, audio playback, environmental requirements, and what comes in the box.
Design and Finish
The new iPad Pro models come with a sleek and modern design that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Available in two finishes, Silver and Space Gray, these iPads exude elegance and sophistication. The anodized aluminum body ensures durability while maintaining a lightweight profile, making it easy to carry around.
Capacity and Storage Options
Apple offers the new iPad Pro in various storage capacities to suit different needs. You can choose from 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and a massive 2TB option. This range ensures that whether you’re a casual user, a student, a professional, or a creative artist, there’s an iPad Pro that meets your storage requirements.
Size and Weight
The new iPad Pro models are available in two sizes: an 11-inch model and a larger 12.9-inch model. The 11-inch model weighs just 466 grams (Wi-Fi) and 468 grams (Wi-Fi + Cellular), while the 12.9-inch model weighs 682 grams (Wi-Fi) and 684 grams (Wi-Fi + Cellular). Despite their lightweight design, these iPads feel solid and well-balanced in hand.
Buttons and Connectors
The iPad Pro retains the minimalist design ethos of Apple, with a few essential buttons and connectors. You’ll find the volume buttons on the right side, and the top button, which doubles as a Touch ID sensor, on the top edge. The USB-C connector at the bottom supports Thunderbolt / USB 4, allowing for faster data transfer, external display support, and charging.
Display
The iPad Pro’s Liquid Retina XDR display is a marvel of technology, offering a resolution of 2388 x 1668 pixels (11-inch) and 2732 x 2048 pixels (12.9-inch). With ProMotion technology, True Tone, and P3 wide color, the display delivers stunning visuals with accurate colors, deep blacks, and a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio. Whether you’re watching a movie, editing photos, or working on a presentation, the display provides an immersive experience.
M4 Chip
At the heart of the new iPad Pro is Apple’s M4 chip, which is a powerhouse of performance. Built on a 5-nanometer process, the M4 chip features an 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine. This configuration ensures that the iPad Pro can handle demanding tasks with ease, from complex photo and video editing to gaming and augmented reality applications.
Camera System
The iPad Pro is equipped with a sophisticated camera system. The rear camera setup includes a 12MP wide camera and a 10MP ultra-wide camera. These cameras support Smart HDR 3, 4K video recording at 60 fps, and a LiDAR scanner for enhanced augmented reality experiences. The front-facing TrueDepth camera is a 12MP ultra-wide camera that supports Center Stage, which keeps you in frame during video calls.
Video Recording
With the new iPad Pro, video recording capabilities are top-notch. You can record 4K video at 24 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps. The ProRes video recording at up to 4K at 30 fps ensures high-quality footage. Additionally, you can capture slow-motion video at 1080p at 120 fps or 240 fps. These features make the iPad Pro an excellent choice for videographers and content creators.
TrueDepth Camera
The TrueDepth camera system on the front of the iPad Pro is designed for more than just selfies. It supports Face ID, which is the most secure facial authentication in a tablet. The TrueDepth camera also enables features like Animoji, Memoji, and immersive augmented reality experiences.
Video Calling
Thanks to the ultra-wide front camera and Center Stage, video calling on the iPad Pro is better than ever. Center Stage uses machine learning to adjust the front camera during video calls, ensuring that you remain in the center of the frame even if you move around. This feature is compatible with popular video calling apps like FaceTime, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams.
Audio Calling
The iPad Pro supports high-quality audio calling through FaceTime Audio, Wi-Fi calling, and cellular networks. The advanced microphones and speakers ensure clear and crisp audio during calls, making it an ideal device for remote work and communication.
Speakers and Microphones
The iPad Pro features a four-speaker audio system that delivers rich, immersive sound. Whether you’re listening to music, watching a movie, or playing a game, the audio quality is exceptional. The studio-quality microphones ensure clear audio recording and voice capture, making it perfect for video calls, podcasts, and voice memos.
Cellular and Wireless Connectivity
The new iPad Pro models support 5G connectivity, offering blazing-fast download and upload speeds. This makes it easier to stream high-definition content, download large files, and stay connected on the go. Additionally, the iPad Pro supports Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring faster and more reliable wireless connections.
SIM Card Options
The iPad Pro offers both physical SIM and eSIM options, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred carrier and plan. The eSIM feature is particularly useful for travelers, allowing you to switch between carriers without needing a physical SIM card.
Location Services
The iPad Pro includes advanced location services, such as GPS/GNSS, digital compass, Wi-Fi, iBeacon microlocation, and more. These features ensure accurate location tracking for navigation, augmented reality applications, and location-based services.
Sensors
The iPad Pro is packed with sensors that enhance its functionality and user experience. These include the LiDAR scanner, three-axis gyro, accelerometer, barometer, and ambient light sensor. These sensors enable features like precise augmented reality experiences, motion tracking, and automatic display adjustments based on ambient lighting.
Face ID
Face ID on the iPad Pro is powered by the TrueDepth camera system and offers secure and convenient authentication. It uses advanced facial recognition technology to unlock your device, authenticate apps, and make secure payments with Apple Pay. Face ID works seamlessly in both portrait and landscape orientations.
Apple Pay
With Face ID, making payments with Apple Pay on the iPad Pro is secure and effortless. You can use Apple Pay in apps and on websites to make purchases without needing to enter your payment information manually. It’s a fast, easy, and secure way to pay.
Siri
Siri on the iPad Pro is more powerful and responsive than ever. You can use Siri to send messages, set reminders, find information, control your smart home devices, and more. With on-device processing, Siri requests are faster and more secure, ensuring your privacy.
Charging and Expansion
The iPad Pro supports fast charging with the included 20W USB-C power adapter. The USB-C port also supports Thunderbolt / USB 4, enabling you to connect external displays, storage devices, and other peripherals. This makes the iPad Pro a versatile tool for professionals who need to expand their workspace.
Display Support
The iPad Pro’s USB-C port with Thunderbolt support allows you to connect it to external displays with up to 6K resolution. This feature is particularly useful for creative professionals who need additional screen real estate for their work. You can use the iPad Pro as a primary or secondary display, enhancing your productivity.
Power and Battery
The 11-inch iPad Pro is equipped with a built-in 28.65-watt-hour rechargeable lithium-polymer battery, while the 12.9-inch model has a 40.88-watt-hour battery. Both models offer up to 10 hours of surfing the web on Wi-Fi or watching videos, and up to 9 hours of web surfing using cellular data. The fast-charging capability ensures you can quickly recharge your device and get back to work.
Operating System
The new iPad Pro models run on iPadOS, which is designed to take full advantage of the iPad’s hardware and capabilities. iPadOS offers a smooth and intuitive user experience with features like multitasking, the Files app, and advanced Apple Pencil support. Regular software updates ensure that your device stays up to date with the latest features and security enhancements.
Accessibility
Apple is committed to making its products accessible to everyone. The iPad Pro includes a range of accessibility features, such as VoiceOver, Magnifier, Switch Control, AssistiveTouch, and more. These features make it easier for people with disabilities to use the device and access its full range of capabilities.
Built-in Apps
The iPad Pro comes with a suite of built-in apps that are designed to be powerful and easy to use. These include Safari, Mail, Photos, Messages, FaceTime, Calendar, and more. Additionally, the App Store offers a vast selection of third-party apps that can enhance your productivity, creativity, and entertainment.
Video Playback
With its Liquid Retina XDR display, the iPad Pro offers an exceptional video playback experience. It supports a wide range of video formats, including HEVC, H.264, and ProRes. The ProMotion technology ensures smooth and fluid video playback, making it perfect for watching movies, TV shows, and online content.
Audio Playback
The iPad Pro supports high-quality audio playback with support for various audio formats, including AAC, MP3, Apple Lossless, FLAC, and more. The four-speaker audio system delivers rich and immersive sound, whether you’re listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks.
Environmental Requirements
Apple designs its products with environmental responsibility in mind. The iPad Pro meets stringent environmental standards and is made with recycled materials. It is free from harmful substances like mercury, brominated flame retardants, and PVC. The energy-efficient design ensures low power consumption, reducing its environmental impact.
In the Box
When you purchase the new iPad Pro, you’ll find the following items in the box:
- iPad Pro
- USB-C Charge Cable (1 meter)
- 20W USB-C Power Adapter
Apple also offers a range of accessories, including the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) and the Magic Keyboard, which can be purchased separately to enhance your iPad Pro experience.
Final Word
The new Apple M4 chip iPad Pro models are a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation and excellence. With their powerful performance, stunning display, advanced camera system, and versatile features, these iPads are designed to meet the needs of a wide range of users. Whether you’re a professional, a student, or a creative artist, the new iPad Pro offers the tools and capabilities you need to achieve your goals. With its sleek design, robust performance, and extensive feature set, the new iPad Pro is a worthy addition to Apple’s lineup of cutting-edge devices.
