iPad Pro to Feature M5 Chip First, But Production Delayed to Second Half of 2025

Anticipating Apple’s iPad Pro Refresh: All Eyes on the M5 Chip

Earlier this year, Apple unveiled a major redesign of the iPad Pro, showcasing a sleeker profile and the introduction of the potent M4 chip. Recent updates suggest that the tech giant is preparing to pause its refresh plans, pushing the debut of the M5 iPad Pro to the latter half of next year. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has indicated that mass production for this anticipated model is set to commence in the second half of 2025, hinting at a potential launch by year-end.

New Developments: M5 iPad Pro Scheduled for Mass Production

In a detailed analysis posted on Medium, Kuo provided insights on Apple’s future releases, including the iPad Pro outfitted with the M5 chip. Although no specific details regarding hardware enhancements were disclosed, Kuo confirmed Apple’s commitment to an annual update cycle for its iPad Pro lineup. Following the April release of the M4 iPad Pro last year, it appears that the 2024 updates will focus on the OLED model.

Shifting Focus: What to Expect at Upcoming Spring Events

There had been speculation surrounding a possible upgrade of the iPad Pro during Apple’s spring event, that typically occurs between March and April, alongside new M4 MacBook Pro models. However, reports suggest that the event may prioritize the MacBook Air and iPad Air, sidelining the Pro models. Notably, Kuo has positioned the OLED iPad Pro to be the first beneficiary of the M5 chip, suggesting its release may precede that of the M5 MacBook Pro.

Potential Launch Timeline and Specifications

If Kuo’s schedule holds true, we might witness an announcement for the M5 iPad Pro in conjunction with the M5 MacBook Pro. Nonetheless, Apple is likely to stagger the releases, ensuring a strategic separation between these products. While the iPad Pro is anticipated to debut with the promising M5 chip, significant visual or structural changes may be minimal, given the comprehensive redesign it underwent during its last update.

Should You Upgrade to the M5 iPad Pro?

The upcoming OLED iPad Pro will begin mass production in the latter half of 2025. For users currently utilizing the M4 version, the incentive to upgrade may hinge more on enhanced performance rather than substantial hardware modifications. The design is expected to remain largely unchanged, which raises questions about the value of transitioning to the new model. We invite you to share your thoughts: do you believe the M4 iPad Pro presents enough advancements to justify an upgrade?

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