Apple has officially announced its most significant iPad upgrade in years with the launch of the iPad Pro (2024). This new tablet introduces several groundbreaking features that push the boundaries of what's possible in a portable device.
Cutting-Edge Display Technology
The standout feature of the new iPad Pro is its OLED display, a first for the iPad line. Apple has opted for an advanced tandem or dual-stack OLED panel, which offers several advantages:
- Increased brightness: Up to 1600 nits peak for HDR content
- Improved power efficiency
- Extended lifespan, potentially lasting over a decade
- True blacks and enhanced contrast (2,000,000:1 contrast ratio)
This display technology allows Apple to create its thinnest device ever, with the 13-inch model measuring just 5.1mm thick.
Powerhouse Performance
At the heart of the new iPad Pro is Apple's latest M4 chip. While full benchmarks are not yet available, Apple claims:
- Up to 1.5x better CPU performance compared to the M2 chip
- 10-core CPU and 10-core GPU options
- Support for hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading
- Enhanced AI capabilities through a 16-core Neural Engine
Pricing and Availability
The iPad Pro (2024) will be available in two sizes:
- 11-inch model starting at $999
- 13-inch model starting at $1,299
Pre-orders are open now, with devices shipping from May 15th in the US.
New Accessories
Apple is also introducing new accessories to complement the iPad Pro (2024):
- Magic Keyboard: Features a function row for the first time, aluminum palm rest, and haptic feedback trackpad
- Apple Pencil Pro: Rumored to include changeable tips, Find My support, and new gesture controls
The Bottom Line
The iPad Pro (2024) represents a significant leap forward in tablet technology. Its OLED display and M4 chip position it as a potential laptop replacement for many users. However, the high starting price may give some consumers pause, especially with the additional cost of accessories.
For those seeking a more affordable option, Apple is also introducing a new 12.9-inch iPad Air model with an LCD display and M2 chip, broadening the iPad lineup to cater to different budgets and needs.
As always, real-world performance and long-term reliability will be key factors to watch as these devices make their way into users' hands.