Apple has unveiled the new iPad Pro powered by the M5 chip, marking the most significant leap yet in performance, AI capability, and connectivity for the tablet lineup. The next-generation M5 chip brings a 10-core GPU with a Neural Accelerator in each core, a faster CPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine, making it the most advanced iPad to date.
According to Apple, the M5-powered iPad Pro delivers up to 3.5 times faster AI performance compared to the M4 version and more than five times faster than models equipped with the M1 chip. Combined with the power of iPadOS 26 and a redesigned wireless system, the device is positioned to handle demanding creative, professional, and AI-driven tasks.
John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, said the M5 “unlocks endless possibilities for creativity and productivity,” describing the new iPad Pro as Apple’s most advanced and versatile tablet yet.
A major step forward in AI and graphics
Built for the growing demands of on-device AI, the M5 chip introduces a next-generation GPU that dramatically improves image generation, video masking, and visual rendering. Each GPU core includes a Neural Accelerator for AI workloads, while the faster Neural Engine delivers energy-efficient performance for features powered by Apple Intelligence.
For creative professionals, M5’s new ray-tracing engine offers up to 1.5 times faster 3D rendering than the M4 model and nearly seven times faster than the M1 iPad Pro. This is complemented by the world’s fastest CPU core in a 10-core configuration (four performance cores and six efficiency cores), enabling smoother multitasking across design, editing, and business workflows.
Enhanced speed, storage, and memory
Apple has increased unified memory bandwidth to more than 150GB/s, a 30 percent jump from the previous generation. The new iPad Pro also delivers up to twice the storage read and write speeds and starts with 12GB of unified memory on 256GB and 512GB configurations. Fast-charging support enables a 50 percent charge in around 30 minutes with Apple’s 70W USB-C adapter.
Smarter connectivity with C1X and N1 chips
The new iPad Pro introduces Apple’s C1X modem for cellular models, providing up to 50 percent faster data speeds and improved power efficiency. The device also debuts the N1 wireless networking chip, supporting Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread for better reliability and faster connections.
Ultra-thin design and brighter display
Despite its performance boost, the new iPad Pro remains Apple’s thinnest yet — 5.3mm for the 11-inch model and 5.1mm for the 13-inch version. Both feature the Ultra Retina XDR display, which uses tandem OLED technology for deeper contrast and up to 1,600 nits peak HDR brightness. A nano-texture glass option reduces glare for professional color-managed workflows.
iPadOS 26: A smarter, more capable iPad experience
Running iPadOS 26, the new iPad Pro gains a refined interface with a new windowing system, a dedicated menu bar, and expanded multitasking tools. The system also introduces a redesigned Files app, a standalone Preview app for PDFs, and advanced background task management. Apple Intelligence brings new AI features like Live Translation in FaceTime and Messages, intelligent task suggestions in Shortcuts, and improved content understanding in Notes and Reminders.
Accessories and sustainability
Apple’s latest Magic Keyboard, redesigned for the new iPad Pro, includes a function row and aluminum palm rest. The Apple Pencil Pro adds new tactile feedback and improved precision. Both are sold separately.
In line with Apple’s 2030 environmental goals, the new iPad Pro is built with 30 percent recycled materials by weight, including 100 percent recycled aluminum in its enclosure and 100 percent recycled cobalt in its battery.
Pricing and availability
The new 11-inch iPad Pro starts at AED 4,199 for Wi-Fi and AED 4,999 for Wi-Fi + Cellular. The 13-inch model starts at AED 5,499 for Wi-Fi and AED 6,299 for Wi-Fi + Cellular. Both are available in silver and space black, with up to 2TB of storage. Pre-orders are open now, with availability beginning October 22 through Apple’s online and retail stores.
