In October 2025, Apple introduced the new iPad Pro with M5 chip. While the exterior remains identical, the iPad Pro M5 comes with several 'under-the-hood' improvements:
- Massive AI Leap: The M5 chip features a next-generation GPU with a Neural Accelerator in every core. This delivers up to 3.5x faster AI performance compared to the M4 (used in the 2024 iPad Pro), specifically benefiting on-device image generation and LLM processing.
- Base RAM Upgrade: Apple increased the starting RAM from 8GB to 12GB for the 256GB and 512GB models to better support the memory demands of Apple Intelligence and iPadOS 26.
- Next-Gen Connectivity: The transition to the N1 chip brings Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.0 support. Additionally, the new C1X 5G modem (used in Wifi + Cellular iPad Pro) is more power-efficient, extending battery life for users on cellular data.
- Pro Display Updates: The display now supports a minimum brightness of 1 nit for better use in dark environments and adds 120Hz Adaptive Sync for compatible external displays.
- Faster I/O: Storage read and write speeds have doubled, resulting in near-instant app launches and significantly faster file transfers for video editors.
- Fast Charging: For the first time, the iPad Pro supports fast charging (up to 60W), allowing for a 50% charge in just over half an hour when using a compatible power adapter.
ℹ️ Please note that the iPad Pro M5 continues to support the Apple Pencil Pro and fits into the 2024 iPad Pro M4 waterproof case. However, older iPad Pros from 2020, 2021 or 2022 require a different case.