Apple’s next-gen tablet enters production with the M5 chip and potentially slimmer bezels. Here’s what you need to know.
Apple’s M5 iPad Pro is officially happening. OLED displays for the new tablets entered mass production this week. That points to an October 2025 launch.
Multiple reports confirm the timing. Additionally, Apple typically announces new iPads in fall. If you’ve been waiting to upgrade, this might be your moment.
M5 Chip: More Power, Better Performance
The headline feature is the M5 processor. Apple hasn’t revealed specs yet. However, expect significant improvements over the already-impressive M4.
For context, the M4 iPad Pro handles professional video editing easily. It runs complex digital art projects smoothly. The M5 will push those boundaries further.
This matters for creative professionals using Procreate or Adobe Creative Suite. More processing power means smoother brush strokes and faster renders. Additionally, you can work with larger, more complex files.
Slimmer Bezels: Maybe
One exciting rumor involves new chip-on-film technology. This could deliver even thinner bezels than the current model. More screen real estate without increasing device size.
For artists using Apple Pencil, every bit of extra screen helps. However, Apple is reportedly still deciding whether to implement this tech. Don’t count on it yet.
What’s Probably NOT Changing
This appears to be a “chip and ship” upgrade. The M5 processor is likely the only major change. The stunning OLED display carries over from the M4 generation. So does the ultra-thin design and Apple Pencil Pro support.
That’s not bad news. The current iPad Pro design is excellent. The OLED display with 1,600 nits peak brightness remains best-in-class. Sometimes the best upgrade is keeping what works and making it faster.
Pricing will probably stay the same. Expect $999 for 11-inch and $1,299 for 13-inch models.
Community Split on Upgrades
Reddit’s r/iPad community is divided. Many M4 iPad Pro owners plan to skip this generation. They don’t have specific performance needs.
“The M4 already handles everything I throw at it,” posted one user. “I’ll wait for the M6.”
However, creators working with intensive apps are interested. YouTube channels focusing on digital art expect meaningful performance gains. The Apple Pencil community particularly wants better pressure sensitivity and palm rejection.
Should You Upgrade From M4?
Probably not. Unless you have specific performance bottlenecks, the M4 remains incredibly capable. The jump from M4 to M5 won’t be dramatic.
However, if you’re using an older iPad, October could be perfect timing. You’ll get the latest processor and likely some iOS features that use the extra power.
Competition Still Can’t Match
Windows tablets and Android competitors can’t match the iPad Pro’s combination. Performance, display quality, and app ecosystem remain unmatched. The M5 will likely extend that lead.
Samsung’s Galaxy Tab series is the closest Android alternative. However, Apple’s chip advantage keeps growing. Microsoft’s Surface Pro offers better desktop software compatibility. But it can’t match iPad battery life or touch interface.
Apple Pencil Performance Boost
The current Apple Pencil Pro already performs excellently with M4. The M5’s additional processing power could enable better palm rejection. Additionally, expect more precise pressure sensitivity and faster response times.
For digital artists and note-takers, these improvements might justify upgrading. Professional illustrators working on detailed projects would particularly benefit from latency reductions.
Timing Makes Sense
October launches typically mean pre-orders start in late September. Apple often announces new iPads through press releases rather than events.
The timing aligns with back-to-school marketing and holiday shopping. Students and professionals often upgrade tablets in fall. Therefore, October is strategically smart.
The Bottom Line
Should You Wait? If you don’t own an iPad Pro or use an M1/M2 model, absolutely. The M5 offers meaningful performance improvements and future-proofs your investment.
Skip If: You already own an M4 iPad Pro without performance complaints. The upgrade won’t be revolutionary enough to justify the cost.
Best For: Creative professionals, heavy multitaskers, and anyone wanting the fastest tablet available. The M5 will likely handle anything for the next 4-5 years.
Our Verdict: Apple continues refining the iPad Pro formula rather than revolutionizing it. For most users, that’s exactly right. Proven excellence with annual performance improvements.
The M5 iPad Pro won’t redefine tablets. But it’ll be the best one you can buy.
Sources:
