Is the Apple iPad Pro 2021 worth the wait, let’s find out

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A Pro Tablet Fit For 2021

With the iPad Pro 2020 landing in March of last year, there’s a ton of speculation surrounding the release of a new and improved iPad Pro 2021. While this news is fascinating for many, it also poses the question: how will Apple entice shoppers to spend over $1,000 on a new iPad? From what we’ve been able to gather, the most significant changes are taking place on the inside, as we expect Apple to introduce a mini-LED display that boosts color quality on tablet screens. Whether you’re searching for a new iPad to work from home or for personal use, we’re sure this iPad will hit all the marks.

These changes also may include new screen technologies that will improve image quality. Plus, there’s a chance that this latest model could adopt the Apple M1 chip and faster cellular connectivity.

Release Date and Price

The next iPad Pro could launch very well within the following month or two. Various sources have stated that we should expect it to launch in April, although there’s still no firm date. Apple has yet to announce any events for the following weeks. Although once Apple announces the iPad, any new iPads could go on sale just a few days later, if not immediately.

This next release is the fifth generation of iPad Pro. The current model launched in March of 2020, making it almost exactly a year ago. The timing was a bit odd given that the iPad pros typically haven’t launched in the spring. Before that, the third generation launched in October 2018, the second generation in June 2017, and the first model in November 2015. Fingers crossed that Spring will become their new normal.

There’s no confirmed price as of right now for the iPad Pro 2021. Knowing that the previous model started at $799 for an 11-inch model and $999 for the 12.9-inch, it’s safe to assume that the iPad Pro 2021 will come in at a somewhat similar price.

Display

If there’s one rumor we’ve heard most regarding the launching of this new model, it will supposedly have a Mini LED screen. This is a type of LCD screen, but one that offers a better contrast ratio and color reproduction over standard LCD displays. It’s also less likely to suffer screen burn-in than OLED, the current display type on high-end phones.

With that said, it’s also been rumored that there will be a launching of both 11-inch and 12.9-inch models. Although, only the larger of them might use the Mini LED.

iPad Pro pros and cons.
(Image credit: Apple)

Design

While there seem to be significant changes to the iPad Pro 2021 display, it sounds like the design might not be undergoing as much construction. Based on leaks from “trusted sources,” the design shows thinner bezels than the 2020 model, with squared-off edges, a power button on the top edge, and a square-like camera module on the back. We’ve also heard that the slate has quad speakers and a magnetic port to charge the Apple Pencil, similar to its predecessor.

The current models are slim and light, as the 11-inch model sizes up to 24.7 x 17.8 x 0.6cm, and the 12.9-inch comes in at 28 x 21.5 x 0.6cm. The smaller model weighs 473g, and the larger 643g – lighter than a squeeze ketchup bottle.

So, with that said, it sounds like the design is being tweaked but nothing more. Other sources have suggested similar, stating that the lens glass will now be flush with the camera protrusion. Along with that, the number of speaker holes has been reduced by about two-thirds.

Camera, Specs, and Other Features

Concerning the iPad Pro 2021’s specs, we don’t know much as of right now. Although we know that the renders above the camera show a dual-lens one with a LiDAR scanner, it seems to be in line with the current model. There’s also been speculation that the newest model might have an A14 Bionic chipset, which would be a first for Apple’s tablet range. More recent leaks have suggested that the iPad Pro 2021 may even have a more powerful chipset – one that’s similar to the M1 chip in the latest Apple Macs.

Looking further beyond the iPad Pro 2021 itself, Apple may launch a new Magic Keyboard alongside it. This theory comes from several patents for tweaked versions of the device, one that shows touch-sensitive strips in place of a trackpad, along with a microphone and vibration sensors.

These sensors would be able to detect gestures on surfaces the iPad is placed on. They then sense the force used to press keyboard buttons, allowing for different inputs based on the amount of pressure applied. With that being said, it’s essential to take this with a grain of salt as nothing usually comes from patents.

Unfortunately, tablets’ typically have below-average camera quality, but not on the Pro. Tablets were created for professionals, and imaging technology is likely to be higher on their priority list. It’s been noted that the newest model has two rear cameras with 2x optical zoom and 5x digital zoom. It also allows for 4K video recording at 24fps, 30fps, or 60fps. The 1080p HD video recording offers 30fps, 60fps, while the 720p HD videos offer recording at 30fps.

iPad Pro magic keyboard pros and cons.
(Image credit: Apple)

Industries That the iPad is Perfect For

Apple iPads have made many positive changes in the workplace. Several vital advantages allow this device, in particular, to boost productivity and make businesses smarter, faster, and cleaner. Working smarter means working while on the go; thankfully, iPads allow you to do just that. Not only can you bring this device to various work sites, but you also become more productive throughout the entirety of your day.

With that said, some industries would benefit most by utilizing the iPad. Let’s take a look at them here:

  • Medical – With applications offering everything from reference to patient monitoring, doctors and nurses should take an interest in utilizing an iPad.
  • Real Estate – Considering real estate agents and commercial property firms are constantly on the go, bringing a tool such as the iPad could help with efficiency.
  • Law Enforcement – Tablets are a much better use of the limited space that patrol cars already offer; they’re also much easier and lightweight to carry around and won’t get in the way.
  • AEC – Walking around construction sites day-in and day-out means workers need access to lightweight, portable devices.
  • HVAC – In a similar sense, anyone in the HVAC industry knows how crucial it is to access data and technology on the go. Being that they’re constantly moving from one job to the next, iPads could make their processes much smoother.

How We Feel about the iPad Pro 2021

Considering many of our team members own Apple products themselves, our team is excited about the launching of this new model. Since we’re passionate about technology and how it can help lead to business success, we feel that this model is extremely exciting for our team and businesses in general.

If you’re interested in learning more about how technology can grow and develop your business, our team is happy to offer insight and guidance into your IT. At Parried, we provide the IT support and consulting you need to eliminate IT challenges and grow your business. We design our services to scale your business as it grows. We act as an extension of your business as your complete IT partner, providing our services with your best interests in mind. Let’s start a conversation. Learn more about how we can help you today by seeing if you qualify for an IT consultation.