For years, the iPad Pro has been known as Apple’s most powerful tablet. It came with lightning-fast chips, stunning displays, and premium design. But even with all that power, many users felt something was missing. The hardware was amazing, but the software and features didn’t always match the level of performance people expected.
Apple has finally answered those concerns. With the newest update, the iPad Pro just got the feature every user wanted. This change doesn’t just add convenience—it makes the iPad Pro feel more like a true laptop replacement and a tool that professionals, students, and creators can rely on.
In this article, we’ll explore the history of iPad Pro letdowns, what the new iPadOS 26 upgrade means, and why the latest iPad Pro features are a game-changer. We’ll also compare the iPad Pro with the iPad Air, share the best accessories, and help you decide if the iPad Pro is really worth it in 2025.
The Disappointing History of iPad Pro Letdowns
The iPad Pro has always been praised for its powerful hardware. From fast M-series chips to smooth ProMotion displays, Apple made sure the iPad Pro could compete with even some laptops. But the problem was never about speed or design—it was about how little that power could actually do.
Many past models felt like missed opportunities. Apple gave the iPad Pro incredible processors, but the iPadOS software often limited what users could achieve. For example, people wanted true multitasking, better file management, and desktop-class apps like Final Cut Pro or Xcode. Instead, they were stuck with mobile apps that didn’t fully take advantage of the hardware.
This mismatch between power and functionality frustrated users. They often said the iPad Pro was “great hardware, limited software.” Creative professionals wanted a real laptop replacement, but ended up going back to their MacBook or PC because the iPad Pro couldn’t deliver the same flexibility.
Apple’s history with the iPad Pro shows one clear pattern: amazing devices held back by software restrictions. That’s why the new feature Apple just introduced feels like a turning point.
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M5 iPad Pro Could Get a Big Boost from iPadOS 26
The upcoming M5 iPad Pro isn’t just about faster chips or a brighter screen—it’s about how iPadOS 26 could finally unlock its true power. For years, the hardware outpaced the software, but now Apple seems ready to close that gap.
With iPadOS 26, Apple is focusing on productivity and multitasking. Rumors suggest smoother Stage Manager improvements, better external monitor support, and more advanced file system features. These upgrades may finally allow users to run professional-level workflows without feeling limited.
For example, video editors could enjoy desktop-like performance with Final Cut Pro, while designers might take advantage of Apple Pencil upgrades and improved creative apps. Even everyday users could notice big gains, like easier split-screen multitasking and more powerful built-in tools.
If these features roll out as expected, the M5 iPad Pro could feel less like a “bigger iPhone” and more like a true MacBook alternative. This shift could be the breakthrough Apple fans have been waiting for.
Key iPadOS 26 Features That Matter Most
The new iPadOS 26 is shaping up to be one of the most important updates for the iPad Pro. While the iPad always had strong hardware, this update focuses on making the software finally catch up. Here are the features that matter most:
- Stage Manager Improvements – Apple is expected to make multitasking smoother, allowing users to resize windows more freely and switch between apps faster. This makes the iPad Pro feel closer to a desktop computer experience.
- Enhanced External Monitor Support – In the past, plugging an iPad into a bigger screen only mirrored the display. With iPadOS 26, users may get true extended display functionality, which is huge for professionals who need more space for editing, coding, or presentations.
- Better File Management – A long-time complaint with the iPad has been its limited file system. iPadOS 26 could bring improved folder organization, faster searching, and easier transfers between devices, making the iPad Pro much more work-friendly.
These features are small on the surface, but they completely change how the iPad Pro can be used. Instead of feeling like a mobile device, it begins to act more like a real computer replacement.
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Why Apple’s New iPad Pro Feature Changes Everything
Apple has finally delivered the feature iPad Pro users wanted for years, and it’s a game-changer. While past updates focused on speed and design, this upgrade goes deeper—it makes the iPad Pro truly useful for professionals, students, and creators.
The new feature bridges the gap between tablet and laptop. Instead of being limited to mobile-style apps, the iPad Pro can now handle desktop-class software, advanced multitasking, and pro-level workflows. This means graphic designers can edit complex projects, video editors can work on 4K footage, and business users can manage documents more efficiently—all on one device.
For everyday users, the upgrade also makes the iPad Pro more flexible. Whether it’s using external displays, managing files, or running multiple apps at once, the experience feels smoother and more powerful than ever.
In short, this isn’t just another small update. It’s the feature that finally allows the iPad Pro to live up to its name and justify its higher price. Apple has given users a real reason to choose the iPad Pro over the iPad Air or even a MacBook.
Real-World Use Cases
The new iPad Pro feature isn’t just exciting on paper—it makes a real difference in everyday life. Here are some examples of how people can benefit:
- Video Editing on iPad Pro – With more power and better software, editors can now cut, color-correct, and export videos right on the iPad. Apps like Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve run smoother, making the iPad Pro a true portable editing studio.
- Professional Design Workflows – Graphic designers and illustrators can pair the Apple Pencil Pro with apps like Procreate or Adobe Illustrator. The improved multitasking tools make it easier to work on large projects while switching between apps.
- Productivity for Remote Workers – Students and professionals can manage documents, attend video calls, and organize tasks without feeling limited. With external display support and better file handling, the iPad Pro becomes a serious work-from-anywhere device.
These real-world use cases prove that the iPad Pro is no longer just a “nice tablet.” It’s now a true productivity machine that can replace a laptop for many users.
iPad Pro vs. iPad Air: What’s the Real Difference?
When shopping for a new tablet, many people ask the same question: Should I buy the iPad Pro or the iPad Air? At first glance, they look very similar, but there are some big differences that set them apart.
The iPad Pro is designed for professionals and power users. It comes with Apple’s most advanced M-series chip, a brighter ProMotion display with 120Hz refresh rate, more storage options, and better camera features. It also supports accessories like the Magic Keyboard and the Apple Pencil Pro for creative work.
On the other hand, the iPad Air is more budget-friendly. It still offers strong performance with an M-series processor, but it doesn’t have all the extra features like the ProMotion display or as much storage. The iPad Air is a great choice for students or casual users who want speed without paying the higher iPad Pro price.
In simple terms:
- Choose the iPad Pro if you need desktop-level performance, advanced multitasking, or do creative work like video editing and digital art.
- Go for the iPad Air if you want a powerful but more affordable tablet for everyday use like streaming, note-taking, and schoolwork.
The difference comes down to whether you want a device for light tasks or a full professional workflow.
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Price-to-Performance Value
When comparing the iPad Pro and the iPad Air, the biggest question is whether the extra cost of the Pro is really worth it. The iPad Pro usually costs several hundred dollars more, but that higher price brings serious upgrades like the M5 chip, ProMotion 120Hz display, and advanced multitasking features in iPadOS 26.
For professionals, the value is clear. If you’re a video editor, digital artist, or business user, the iPad Pro gives you the performance and tools you need to work without limits. Its speed, display, and accessory support make it a true laptop replacement.
But for casual users, the iPad Air offers better price-to-performance value. You still get Apple’s powerful hardware and smooth experience, but without paying for features you may not fully use. For students, note-taking, streaming, or light productivity, the iPad Air is more than enough.
In short, the iPad Pro is the best choice for power users, while the iPad Air is the smarter buy for everyday users on a budget.
Best iPad Accessories
The iPad Pro becomes even more powerful when paired with the right accessories. Apple and third-party brands have created tools that can turn the iPad into a complete productivity and creativity hub. Here are some of the best accessories every iPad Pro user should consider:
- Apple Pencil Pro – A must-have for artists, designers, and students. It offers precision drawing, note-taking, and advanced creative tools that make the iPad Pro feel like a real sketchbook or canvas.
- Magic Keyboard – This accessory transforms the iPad Pro into a laptop-like device. With a full keyboard and trackpad, it’s perfect for typing, editing documents, and working on long projects.
- Smart Folio or Protective Case – A simple but important accessory to protect the iPad Pro. Some cases also allow multiple viewing angles, which is helpful for watching videos or video calls.
- USB-C Hubs and Adapters – Many professionals need to connect external hard drives, SD cards, or monitors. A good hub adds more ports and expands what the iPad Pro can do.
- External Storage Drives – Since the iPad Pro is often used for heavy files like 4K videos or design projects, having an external SSD makes it easier to save and transfer large files quickly.
These accessories help unlock the true potential of the iPad Pro, making it more useful for work, study, and creative projects.
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Productivity Tools for Professionals
The iPad Pro shines when you add the right productivity tools. These apps and accessories make it a powerful device for professionals who want to work smarter, not harder.
- Notion & Evernote – Great for organizing notes, projects, and tasks. They help students and professionals keep track of their work in one place.
- Microsoft Office & Google Workspace – Essential for creating documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. With iPadOS 26 multitasking, switching between these apps is smoother.
- Procreate & Adobe Creative Cloud – For designers and artists, these apps make the most of the Apple Pencil Pro, offering precise drawing, sketching, and editing tools.
- Final Cut Pro & DaVinci Resolve – Video editors can now use the iPad Pro like a portable editing studio, cutting and exporting footage on the go.
- Slack & Zoom – Perfect for remote work and collaboration, making the iPad Pro a strong tool for business communication.
With these tools, the iPad Pro isn’t just a tablet—it’s a full productivity machine that rivals laptops for creative and professional use.
iPad Pro 2025: Rumors, Leaks, and Expectations
Here’s a simple, 8th-grade style explanation of what’s (likely) coming for the M5 iPad Pro—with trusted rumors and expectations included to build topical authority and boost SEO:
What’s Coming in Late 2025?
- M5 Chip – Apple’s next iPad Pro is expected to be the first device with the powerful M5 processor, likely built on a 2 nm or improved 3 nm process. This should offer big improvements in speed, efficiency, and even AI performance.
- More RAM – Rumor has it that all M5 iPad Pro models will now come with 16 GB of RAM as a standard, doubling what lower-tier M4 iPads offered.
Camera & Display Upgrades
- Dual Front Cameras – The new model may include two 12MP front-facing cameras—one on the short (portrait) edge and one on the long (landscape) edge. This allows better Face ID and clearer video calls, no matter how you hold the iPad.
- Design Changes – No major redesign is expected since last year’s model already featured an ultra-thin build with a Tandem OLED display. However, some leaks hint at even thinner bezels in future versions, although likely after the 2025 update.
Connectivity & Launch Timing
- Wi-Fi 7 Support – Enjoy faster wireless speeds. The M5 iPad Pro is likely to support Wi-Fi 7, offering much quicker data transfers compared to Wi-Fi 6E.
- Release Schedule – Most sources expect the M5 iPad Pro to enter mass production in the second half of 2025, with a possible launch in the fall (around September or October). Some reports suggest it might appear as late as early 2026.
What to Expect with iPadOS 26
- Major Productivity Features – iPadOS 26 will debut alongside the M5 iPad Pro and bring new multitasking features like resizable windows, a macOS-style menu bar, improved Stage Manager, and a fresh Liquid Glass design.
- The One-Two Punch – The combination of M5 hardware and iPadOS 26 software may finally turn the iPad Pro into a real laptop alternative, delivering the power and flexibility that users have been eagerly waiting for.
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Summary Table
| Feature | Rumored Upgrade |
|---|---|
| Processor | M5 chip (likely 2 nm) |
| RAM | 16 GB standard |
| Front Cameras | Dual (portrait + landscape 12 MP cameras) |
| Display & Design | Same OLED; thinner bezels possible later |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7 support |
| Release Timeline | Fall 2025 (or early 2026) |
| Software | iPadOS 26 with Liquid Glass UI & multitasking |
Why It Matters for You
If you’re waiting for an iPad that works like a real computer—one that’s fast, versatile, and powerful—the M5 iPad Pro paired with iPadOS 26 could be your moment. Whether you’re doing video editing, creative art, remote work, or streaming, this upgrade promises to be the most meaningful yet.
Is the iPad Pro Worth It in 2025?
The iPad Pro in 2025 is more powerful than ever, but the big question remains: is it worth the high price? Apple has added the feature every user wanted, making the iPad Pro closer to a true laptop replacement. But value depends on who you are and how you use it.
For students, the iPad Pro can be amazing for note-taking, digital textbooks, and multitasking. With Apple Pencil support and split-screen apps, it helps with studying, but the cost might be too high if you only need it for basic tasks.
For creators, like graphic designers and video editors, the iPad Pro is finally delivering. With iPadOS 18/26 updates, powerful M5 chip performance, and ProMotion display, it’s a dream tool for creating art, editing 4K videos, and running design apps smoothly.
For business users, the iPad Pro works as a portable workstation. Better keyboard support, cloud apps, and multitasking make it useful for productivity on the go.
Still, if you don’t need the extra power, the iPad Air or even a regular iPad might give you the same experience for much less money.
Who Should Buy the iPad Pro?
- Graphic designers and artists who need Apple Pencil precision and a smooth 120Hz ProMotion display.
- Video editors and content creators who want desktop-level performance in a portable form.
- Developers who use coding apps or virtual machines and benefit from the raw power of the M5 chip.
- Everyday users might not need the iPad Pro. For streaming, browsing, and light schoolwork, the iPad Air offers a better balance of features and price.
iPad Pro vs iPad Air vs iPad (2025) – Comparison Table
| Feature | iPad Pro (2025) | iPad Air (2025) | iPad (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Apple M5 chip – lightning-fast, desktop-class power | Apple M3 chip – fast and smooth | A16 Bionic – good for daily use |
| Display | 12.9” / 11” Liquid Retina XDR, ProMotion 120Hz | 10.9” Liquid Retina, 60Hz | 10.9” Retina, 60Hz |
| Storage Options | Up to 2TB | Up to 1TB | Up to 256GB |
| Apple Pencil | Supports Apple Pencil Pro (best for artists/designers) | Supports Apple Pencil (2nd gen) | Supports Apple Pencil (1st gen) |
| Keyboard Support | Magic Keyboard Pro with function row + trackpad | Magic Keyboard (basic version) | Smart Keyboard only |
| Best For | Graphic designers, video editors, developers, business users | Students, light creators, professionals on a budget | Everyday users, casual browsing, streaming, kids |
| Price Range | $$$ (Premium) | $$ (Mid-range) | $ (Budget-friendly) |
FAQs on iPad Pro 2025
Q1: What is the best new feature of the iPad Pro?
A1: The most exciting upgrade is the Apple M5 chip paired with the OLED display. This combination makes the iPad Pro faster, smoother, and more energy-efficient. For professionals, this means better multitasking, improved creative workflows, and laptop-level performance.
Q2: Is the iPad Pro better than a laptop now?
A2: The iPad Pro 2025 is closer than ever to replacing a laptop. Thanks to iPadOS 19, you now get features like Stage Manager, advanced multitasking, and external display support. However, it still cannot fully replace macOS laptops if you need desktop-grade apps. For most users—students, designers, and business professionals—the iPad Pro can work as a laptop alternative.
Q3: When will the new iPad Pro be released?
A3: Apple is expected to release the iPad Pro 2025 in October, based on its usual product launch cycle. Leaks suggest Apple may hold a Fall Event where the new iPad lineup, including the iPad Air and iPad, will also be announced.
Q4: Should I wait for the M5 iPad Pro or buy now?
A4: If you own an older iPad (2020 or earlier), the M5 iPad Pro is worth waiting for because it brings a huge jump in performance and display quality. But if you already have an M2 or M3 iPad Pro, upgrading may not be necessary unless you rely on high-end creative or business tasks.
Final Thoughts: The Future of iPad Pro
The iPad Pro 2025 is more than just a tablet—it’s a game-changing device that pushes the limits of what portable computers can do. With the M5 chip, OLED display, and advanced accessories like Apple Pencil Pro, Apple has finally created a tablet that can seriously compete with laptops.
This release shows that Apple is finally listening to Pro users—giving them powerful hardware, better software tools, and improved productivity features. For designers, students, and business users, this iPad Pro is the strongest option yet.
In the end, the iPad Pro 2025 defines the future of mobile computing. It’s no longer just for casual use—it’s a professional powerhouse that proves the iPad can stand tall in the world of laptops and desktops.