Apple iPad Pro: Apple’s latest iPad Pro lineup debuts the all-new M5 chip alongside the N1 wireless and C1X cellular chips, bringing faster AI, Wi-Fi 7, upgraded memory, and rapid charging, Pre-orders are now available
Apple has announced its most powerful iPad Pro models yet, available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes. Both feature the new M5 chip along with the N1 and C1X chips for faster performance and better connectivity. This update brings big improvements in AI, speed, and design. Pre-orders are now available, with in-store sales starting on Wednesday, October 22.
M5 chip: the next big leap in Apple silicon
At the heart of this upgrade is the new M5 chip, which also powers the 14-inch MacBook Pro and Apple Vision Pro. It features a 10-core CPU with four high-performance and six efficiency cores, the fastest CPU cores Apple has ever built. The 10-core GPU brings a brand-new architecture with a Neural Accelerator in every core, designed to speed up AI and graphics-heavy tasks.
Compared to the previous M4 chip, the M5 offers up to 3.5× faster AI performance, 1.5× faster 3D rendering with ray tracing, and 1.2× faster video transcoding in Final Cut Pro. The chip also allows the iPad Pro to output at up to 120Hz to external displays and supports Adaptive Sync (VRR) for smoother visuals.
Whether you are editing videos in DaVinci Resolve, rendering 3D projects in Octane X, or generating AI art in Draw Things, the new M5 delivers incredible speed and efficiency.
Memory, design, and display upgrades
Apple has boosted performance beyond just the chip. The 256GB and 512GB models now come with 12GB of unified memory, while the 1TB and 2TB variants continue with 16GB. Memory bandwidth jumps to 153GB/s, nearly 30% higher than before, making multitasking and file handling much faster.
Despite these internal upgrades, Apple kept the design beautifully thin and minimal 5.3mm for the 11-inch model and an even slimmer 5.1mm for the 13-inch. Both models feature the Tandem OLED Ultra Retina XDR display, offering incredible brightness, lifelike color, and 1600 nits of peak HDR brightness. A nano-texture glass option is also available to reduce glare for professionals working in bright conditions.
Also Read: iPadOS 26 Brings Liquid Glass Design, Smarter Multitasking, and Apple Intelligence Features
Smarter connectivity and faster charging
The new N1 wireless chip introduces Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, enabling faster and more reliable wireless performance. For those using cellular models, Apple’s C1X modem brings up to 50% faster 5G data speeds while using less power. It also improves GPS accuracy and supports eSIM for quick activation when traveling.
Charging speeds have also been upgraded. Using Apple’s 40W Dynamic Power Adapter (60W Max), the 11-inch model can charge up to 50% in just 30 minutes, while the 13-inch model hits 35% in the same time the same fast-charging standard used by the iPhone 17 lineup.
iPadOS 26: designed for professionals
The new iPadOS 26 matches the power of the M5 chip with a cleaner design and better multitasking tools. It introduces the Liquid Glass interface, a new windowing system, and a menu bar for improved productivity.
Apple also expanded the Preview app for PDF editing with Apple Pencil Markup, and the new Apple Intelligence features take full advantage of the M5’s neural engine, offering on-device tools like Image Playground and Live Translation all processed privately on the device.
Accessories, cameras, and sustainability
The iPad Pro retains its 12MP rear camera, 12MP Center Stage front camera, and four-speaker audio system, delivering excellent quality for photos, videos, and calls. It continues to support Thunderbolt/USB4 for high-speed data transfers and accessories.
Apple has also updated its accessory lineup. The Apple Pencil Pro now includes squeeze gestures and haptic feedback for more natural control, while the Magic Keyboard adds a function row and a sturdy aluminum palm rest. The Smart Folio remains the lightweight choice for everyday use.
As part of Apple’s 2030 carbon-neutral goal, the new iPad Pro is made with 30% recycled materials, including 100% recycled aluminum. Packaging is fiber-based and recyclable, underscoring Apple’s commitment to sustainability.
Pricing and availability
Despite the upgrades, prices remain unchanged. The 11-inch iPad Pro starts at $999, and the 13-inch model starts at $1,299. Cellular versions are priced at $1,199 and $1,499, respectively.
Pre-orders are open now, with general availability beginning October 22 through the Apple Store and authorized resellers.
A major step forward for Apple’s Pro lineup
The new iPad Pro with the M5 chip is more than just a refresh, it is a reimagining of what a professional tablet can do. With massive AI performance gains, Wi-Fi 7, upgraded memory, and lightning-fast charging, Apple has built a device that bridges the gap between power and portability.
Also Read: iPadOS 26 Compatible iPads List and Which Models Will Miss The Update This Fall
This is Apple’s most capable iPad yet built for professionals, creators, and anyone who wants the best tablet experience possible.
