Introduction
Apple recently introduced two new iPads, the fully redesigned 10th-generation iPad and the subtly updated iPad Pro, now featuring the formidable M2 chip. While the 10th-gen iPad received a ground-up overhaul, the iPad Pro’s transformation was more measured, primarily swapping the M1 chip for the M2 and incorporating minor tweaks. Priced at $799 for the 11-inch model and $1,099 for the 12.9-inch variant, the iPad Pro M2 maintains its reputation for being exceptionally fast and, inevitably, quite expensive.
Enduring Design and Engineering Marvel
Despite the iPad Pro retaining its basic design since 2018, it stands as a marvel of engineering. The device impressively houses one of Apple’s finest screens, showcasing the company’s ability to pack immense power into a compact frame. The 12.9-inch model, in particular, continues to be a testament to Apple’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries.
Evolution in iPad’s Timeline with iPadOS 16:
This year’s iPad Pro, though visually similar, marks a crucial point in the iPad’s evolution, coinciding with the release of iPadOS 16. While other iPads receive expected improvements, the iPad Pro gains a groundbreaking multitasking system named Stage Manager. This development addresses a longstanding question from tech reviewers and iPad Pro enthusiasts alike: when will software fully leverage the iPad’s capabilities?
the newest iPad Pro M2 series, the king among all tablets
Detailed Hardware Overview
The iPad Pro comes in two sizes, 11 and 12.9 inches, offering storage options ranging from 128GB to an extravagant 2TB. Notably, it now supports WiFi 6E, a notable upgrade from the previous model’s WiFi 6 limitation. The top-tier 12.9-inch model, equipped with 1TB storage and 5G from Verizon, reaches a staggering $1,999 before adding the $129 Apple Pencil and $349 Magic Keyboard.
The device’s weight, at 1.5 pounds, makes it slightly burdensome compared to its smaller counterparts. Nevertheless, the exceptional fit and finish, coupled with the ability to deliver top-tier performance in such a compact form, reaffirm the iPad Pro’s premium status in the tablet market.
Display Excellence
While the 11-inch model maintains the Liquid Retina LCD display, the 12.9-inch version boasts the Liquid Retina XDR panel introduced with the M1 iPad Pro in May 2021. This advanced screen utilizes mini-LED backlighting, featuring 2,596 local dimming zones, a wide dynamic range, and a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio. With up to 1,000 nits of full-screen brightness and 1,600 nits peak brightness for HDR content, the display continues to be a highlight, maintaining the 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate, P3 wide color gamut, fully laminated screen, and anti-reflective coating.
Camera and Video Advancements
The iPad Pro’s camera setup remains consistent, with a 12-megapixel front-facing camera supporting Face ID and Center Stage. However, the placement on the portrait edge remains a limitation, especially when using a keyboard dock. The back cameras, featuring 12-megapixel wide and 10-megapixel ultra-wide options along with a flash and LIDAR scanner, remain unchanged. The M2 processor introduces a noteworthy video capability, allowing the iPad Pro to record in Apple’s ProRes codec in 4K at 30 frames per second.
Accessories and the Innovative Hover Feature
Retaining compatibility with the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, the iPad Pro’s accessories remain consistent since 2018 and 2020, respectively. The Magic Keyboard, although providing an unparalleled typing experience, is hefty and expensive. The Apple Pencil’s new Hover feature, enabled by the M2 processor, adds an exciting dimension to the user experience. Icons and interface elements react to the Pencil’s proximity, offering a novel interaction method, especially in creative applications.
Performance Boost with the M2 Processor
Delving into the M2 processor’s performance, benchmark tests reveal significant improvements. The M2 iPad Pro scores 1,888 and 8,419 on single-core and multicore CPU tests, respectively, representing a 12% and 42% enhancement over the M1 iPad Pro. Similar strides are seen in GPU performance, scoring 32,834 – a 52% improvement over the M1 model.
Stage Manager and iPadOS 16
The introduction of iPadOS 16 brings forth Stage Manager, a multitasking system allowing up to four apps open in one group with overlapping, resizable windows. While some users, like Federico Viticci, express concerns about inconsistencies and bugs, the final release on the M2 iPad Pro with iPadOS 16.1 showcases a smoother experience. Despite being a work in progress, Stage Manager enhances efficiency and productivity for those willing to explore its capabilities.
Closing Thoughts on the M2 iPad Pro
Undoubtedly, the new iPad Pro stands as a superior iteration, featuring a more powerful chip and additional features, maintaining the same price point. However, uncertainties arise due to the iPad Pro’s enduring design, unchanged since 2018. While the iPad Pro remains a well-designed and high-performing device justifying its price, hints, such as the landscape-edge front camera on the 10th-gen iPad, suggest an imminent redesign. As users anticipate potential form factor advancements, the M2 iPad Pro serves as a compelling option for those seeking enhanced performance within the existing design framework.
The Review
IPad Pro M2
Apple recently introduced two new iPads, the fully redesigned 10th-generation iPad and the subtly updated iPad Pro, now featuring the formidable M2 chip. While the 10th-gen iPad received a ground-up overhaul, the iPad Pro’s transformation was more measured, primarily swapping the M1 chip for the M2 and incorporating minor tweaks. Priced at $USD 799 (US)/$CAD 1099(Canada) for the 11-inch model and $USD 1099 (US)/$CAD 1499(Canada) for the 12.9-inch variant, the iPad Pro M2 maintains its reputation for being exceptionally fast, and inevitably, quite expensive.
PROS
- Most powerful tablet with the new M2 chip
- Brilliant 12.9-inch XDR display
- Best-in-class screen and industrial design
- Handy new Apple Pencil hover feature
- More Mac-style flexibility
- Superior battery life
CONS
- Positioning of front camera, to some
- Stage Manager isn’t fully baked just yet
- Expensive accessories
