Apple's M5 iPad Pro: A Case of Incremental Progress

Mar 11, 2025 at 11:39 PM

In the ever-evolving world of technology, anticipation for new product releases often reaches a fever pitch. Recently, insights from Meritz Securities have shed light on Apple’s plans for the upcoming M5 iPad Pro. According to these findings, the new tablet is expected to offer only modest improvements over its predecessor, with the primary upgrade being the introduction of the M5 chip. This revelation has led many consumers to reconsider their purchasing decisions, especially those looking for significant advancements in features and design.

Exploring the Details Behind the M5 iPad Pro

In the vibrant season of innovation, it appears that the M5 iPad Pro might not be the game-changer some had hoped for. Last year, Apple introduced an OLED display on the M4 model, which was celebrated for reducing both the weight and thickness of the device but came at a higher price point. Now, as we look forward to the M5 version, the focus seems to be primarily on the chip upgrade. The M5 chip, built on the advanced 3nm ‘N3P’ node, is anticipated to provide only marginal enhancements over the existing M4 chip.

Design-wise, industry observers expect little change. The collaboration between Apple and leading display manufacturers Samsung Display and LG Display has been noteworthy, yet production numbers suggest a cautious approach. Initially, projections pointed to a need for over 9 million OLED panels for the 11-inch and 12.9-inch models combined. However, actual shipments amounted to approximately 5.7 million units, indicating a more conservative outlook on OLED display production for the iPad Pro series.

Furthermore, there are indications that Apple may delay the launch of the M5 iPad Pro until after the M5 MacBook Pro is unveiled. This strategic move could prevent market cannibalization and ensure that each product line maintains its distinct appeal. Analysts also speculate that Apple might use this opportunity to introduce a comprehensive software refresh across all platforms, inspired by the VisionOS software used in the Vision Pro headset.

From a journalist's perspective, this scenario underscores the importance of patience in the tech industry. While incremental upgrades can still be valuable, they highlight the need for consumers to weigh their options carefully. For those seeking groundbreaking changes, it might be wise to wait for future iterations that promise more substantial innovations. In the meantime, the current offerings remain robust and capable, serving as solid choices for users who prioritize immediate availability over cutting-edge features.