Apple's iPad Pro line has consistently pushed the boundaries between tablet and full-fledged computer. The M4 model from last year set a high bar with its ultra-thin design, tandem OLED display, and laptop-rivaling performance. However, leaks and supply chain reports suggest the M5 iPad Pro is imminent, possibly launching as early as next week via press release or a dedicated Apple event. This isn't a complete overhaul like the M4's redesign but a focused upgrade emphasizing power and professional workflows. Here's what we know based on leaks and industry chatter.
The M5 Chip and RAM Upgrade
The M5 iPad Pro is powered by Apple's next-generation M5 chip, built on TSMC's refined 3nm process. While the anticipated 2nm jump is reserved for the M6 in 2026, the M5 delivers solid gains. Leaked Geekbench scores indicate a 10-15% boost in single-core performance and a 30-36% increase in GPU performance compared to the M4. These improvements translate to faster 4K video editing in Final Cut Pro, quicker machine learning tasks in apps like Affinity Photo, and smoother 3D rendering in Blender.
The standout upgrade is RAM. The base 256GB model reportedly jumps from 8GB to 12GB, with higher configurations potentially offering 16GB or more. This increase supports the memory-intensive Apple Intelligence features in iPadOS 26, which ships pre-installed. Whether you're coding in Xcode or layering tracks in Logic Pro, the extra RAM ensures seamless multitasking and fewer memory bottlenecks. The M5's enhanced Neural Engine also hints at advanced on-device AI capabilities, such as real-time transcription and generative image editing, positioning the iPad Pro as a serious contender against entry-level MacBooks.
Camera Upgrades for Hybrid Work
One practical improvement addresses a long-standing iPad quirk: video call orientation. The M5 iPad Pro is rumored to feature dual front-facing 12MP ultra-wide cameras—one optimized for landscape mode (ideal for keyboard users) and one for portrait mode. Both support Center Stage for dynamic video framing. Some speculate these cameras borrow tech from the iPhone 17's square sensor, enabling dual-capture video. The rear camera system remains largely unchanged, with the same 12MP wide, 10MP ultra-wide, and LiDAR setup as the M4, sufficient for AR apps but not a leap forward in photography.
Display and Design Continuity
The M5 iPad Pro retains the M4's sleek aluminum chassis (5.1mm for the 13-inch, 5.3mm for the 11-inch) and its Tandem OLED Ultra Retina XDR display, boasting 1,600 nits peak brightness and a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate. No major design changes are expected, though one subtle tweak has surfaced: the rear Apple logo may rotate to align correctly in landscape mode when paired with the Magic Keyboard. Connectivity gets a boost with Wi-Fi 7 for faster downloads and the rumored N1 wireless chip for improved Bluetooth and Thread integration. Cellular models might debut Apple's in-house C1X modem, moving away from Qualcomm.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing is expected to align with the M4: starting at $999 for the 11-inch (possibly 256GB base given the RAM bump) and $1,299 for the 13-inch. Higher storage tiers (512GB, 1TB) will increase costs, potentially exacerbated by U.S. tariffs. Pre-orders could begin mid-October, with shipping by late October or early November. For users upgrading from an M2 or older, the M5's performance and AI capabilities make it a compelling choice. M4 owners, however, may find the GPU and camera upgrades less essential unless their workflows demand them.
Why the M5 iPad Pro Matters in 2025
In a tech landscape dominated by AI advancements and quantum computing hype, the M5 iPad Pro positions Apple as a leader in portable, AI-driven creativity. It’s a tool for artists turning sketches into photorealistic renders, developers building apps on the go, and professionals replacing laptops entirely. While not a radical redesign, its refined power and practical tweaks—like dual cameras—cater to hybrid work and creative demands. As leaks pile up and FCC filings surface, anticipation is building. Will October 15 be the reveal date, or will Apple surprise us sooner? Either way, the M5 iPad Pro is set to redefine professional tablets for another year.
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