Apple has announced a new iPad Pro equipped with the M5 chip, featuring enhanced AI capabilities, faster storage, and the updated iPadOS 26 operating system.
AI and performance gains
The M5 chip marks a significant upgrade in processing power and AI functionality. Among its features is a next-generation GPU, with a Neural Accelerator in each core, resulting in higher performance for tasks ranging from creative projects to AI-powered productivity applications. Apple stated that the new chip delivers up to 3.5 times the AI performance compared with the previous generation iPad Pro with M4, and up to 5.6 times compared to models powered by the M1 chip.
Alongside the new chip, the M5 iPad Pro introduces the N1 wireless networking chip, which supports Wi-Fi 7 technology, and, in cellular models, the C1X modem to boost cellular data speeds by up to 50 per cent compared to its predecessor. The tablet will be available in space black and silver finishes, with 11-inch and 13-inch Ultra Retina XDR display options.
Powered by the next generation of Apple silicon, the new iPad Pro delivers our most advanced and versatile iPad experience yet. iPad Pro with M5 unlocks endless possibilities for creativity and productivity - with a huge leap in AI performance and a big boost in graphics, superfast wireless connectivity, and game-changing iPadOS 26 features, it pushes the boundaries of what iPad can do yet again.
Chip advancements
Apple notes significant improvements in both graphics and CPU performance with the M5. The 10-core GPU introduces Neural Acceleration for faster AI processing, and the third-generation ray-tracing engine aims to boost rendering speeds and visual realism for applications and gaming. The chip's 10-core CPU includes four performance cores and six efficiency cores, billed as the fastest available.
According to Apple, the new iPad Pro delivers up to 6.7 times faster 3D rendering in specific applications compared to the M1 model and up to 1.5 times compared with the M4. Other benchmarks include up to six times faster video transcode performance in Final Cut Pro, up to four times faster AI image generation, and up to 3.7 times faster AI video upscaling.
Memory, storage and multitasking
The latest iPad Pro offers increases in unified memory bandwidth to over 150GB per second, about 30 per cent higher than the previous generation. Storage options start with 12GB of unified memory on 256GB and 512GB models (a 50 per cent increase over before), and storage read and write speeds have doubled according to the company. The updated iPadOS 26 introduces a new windowing system for more seamless multitasking, with additional improvements like fast charge capability - reaching up to 50 per cent battery in around 30 minutes with a supported adapter.
Connectivity
Cellular configurations of the new iPad Pro receive the Apple-designed C1X modem, supporting up to 50 per cent faster data performance and up to 30 per cent less power use than the previous M4 model. These versions offer GPS, 5G connectivity, and eSIM support for more flexible use by mobile professionals. The introduction of the N1 chip supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, which is expected to improve connections and reliability for various use cases, including Personal Hotspot and AirDrop.
Display and design
The iPad Pro models are the thinnest in the lineup yet, with the 11-inch version at 5.3mm and the 13-inch model at 5.1mm. Both feature Apple's Ultra Retina XDR display with tandem OLED technology, which delivers up to 1,000 nits of full-screen brightness for SDR and HDR, and up to 1,600 nits at peak for HDR content. A nano-texture display glass option is available for further glare reduction. Support for external displays up to 120Hz, including Adaptive Sync, aims to enhance workflows in creative and gaming contexts.
Software enhancements
iPadOS 26 brings a refreshed interface using a translucent material called Liquid Glass, a new windowing system, and an improved Files app with new organisational tools. Users are now able to set default apps for specific file types and access a new Preview app designed for the iPad. Background Tasks, improved audio input controls, and new recording capabilities are designed to benefit creative professionals. Integrated AI features include live translation and intelligent actions within apps, with data privacy emphasised.
Accessories and environmental impact
The new iPad Pro is compatible with Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), as well as a thin Magic Keyboard featuring a floating design and aluminium palm rest. Pricing for these accessories ranges from AUD $139 to AUD $579, with education discounts offered. The device itself is constructed with 30 per cent recycled materials by weight, using 100 per cent recycled aluminium for the enclosure, and is manufactured using 55 per cent renewable electricity. Packaging is entirely fibre-based and recyclable.
Availability and pricing
The 11-inch iPad Pro with M5 starts at AUD $1,699 (Wi-Fi) and AUD $2,049 (Wi-Fi + Cellular), while the 13-inch version starts at AUD $2,199 and AUD $2,549 respectively. Education pricing is also available on both sizes and accessories.
