Tag: iPad Pro

  • Apple Certifies Six New iPad Pro Models After M5 Leak

    Apple Certifies Six New iPad Pro Models After M5 Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is launching new iPad Pro tablets with the M5 chip, following the current M4 models.
    2. Multiple new model numbers have been revealed, including A3357, A3358, A3359, A3360, A3361, and A3362.
    3. A3360 is identified as the Wi-Fi only version of the new iPad Pro 13.
    4. A3361 and A3362 are expected to be the cellular versions, while A3357 is the Wi-Fi only version of the iPad Pro 11.
    5. The new M5-based iPad Pros are anticipated to be unveiled later this month.


    Apple is set to launch a new series of iPad Pro tablets, and it’s no surprise that anticipation is building. While the company is still promoting its current 11-inch and 13-inch models powered by the Apple M4 chip (priced at $1,199 on Amazon), insiders have recently uncovered that Apple has been working on new models equipped with the Apple M5 chip since last August.

    Model Numbers Revealed

    A variety of potential new models have recently surfaced on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States. One image below shows that Apple has assigned several model numbers: A3357, A3358, A3359, A3360, A3361, and A3362. Notably, yesterday’s leak identified A3360 as the standard Wi-Fi only version of the forthcoming iPad Pro 13.

    Cellular Variants Identified

    Additionally, A3361 and A3362 are expected to be the cellular versions of the same tablet. Meanwhile, A3357 seems to correspond to the Wi-Fi only version of the iPad Pro 11, with A3358 and A3359 representing their cellular-enabled counterparts. Apple is anticipated to unveil the M5-based iPad Pros later this month, but this timeline might not extend to the upcoming MacBook Pros that have also been noted in FCC filings.

    FCC (1) (2) via MacRumors

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  • YouTuber Creates iPadBook: M4 iPad Pro Meets MacBook Display

    YouTuber Creates iPadBook: M4 iPad Pro Meets MacBook Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. iPadBook Prototype: Shu Chan created a DIY hybrid called the “iPadBook” that uses an M4 iPad Pro as the main display for a MacBook Air by replacing its original screen.

    2. Unique Display Functionality: The iPad acts as the sole monitor for macOS, allowing users to run desktop applications and utilize touch and Apple Pencil features directly on the iPad.

    3. MagBaka System: The device features a magnetic alignment system called “MagBaka,” which uses 12 hidden magnets to securely align and hold the iPad in place with the MacBook base.

    4. Custom Crafting Process: Shu Chan repurposed parts from a damaged MacBook Air, engineered a custom docking base, and used a 3D printer for multiple prototypes to create the housing for the iPadBook.

    5. Future Improvements: Plans for the iPadBook include adding internal cable storage and experimenting with retro designs, as well as potential upgrades using more powerful chips in future versions.


    YouTuber and hardware enthusiast Shu Chan has developed a working prototype named the “iPadBook.” This DIY hybrid transforms an M4 iPad Pro into a detachable tablet and serves as the main display for a MacBook Air.

    Simple Concept

    The concept was quite simple: remove the MacBook Air’s original screen and replace it with an M4 iPad Pro. According to the YouTuber, when the iPad is docked, it connects to the MacBook Air using a wired Sidecar setup. Normally, Sidecar either extends or mirrors the Mac’s display to the iPad, but in this case, the absence of a built-in screen in the MacBook Air allows the iPad to become the only active display for macOS.

    Unique Features

    When macOS starts up, it recognizes the iPad as its sole monitor. This allows users to run applications, interact with the desktop, and utilize touch and Apple Pencil features directly on the iPad. It can handle full desktop applications like Final Cut Pro, Photoshop, and Microsoft Office. Plus, the Apple Pencil can be used for designing or editing tasks.

    In this configuration, macOS operates on an M1 MacBook Air base, while the display component is an M4 iPad Pro that utilizes its own M4 chip when it is detached.

    Standalone Functionality

    When separated from the base, the iPad functions as a standalone tablet suitable for media consumption or gaming. Shu Chan has also crafted a custom macOS Shortcut that enables the MacBook’s keyboard and trackpad to work with the iPad, ensuring a smooth typing and navigation experience.

    Shu Chan refers to the magnetic alignment system as “MagBaka” (pronounced “Mag-bah-kah”), a whimsical name for the embedded magnets and locking design that maintains the alignment of the iPad with the MacBook base. This system incorporates 12 hidden magnets that automatically align the tablet and secure it firmly.

    Crafting Process

    To make this work, Shu Chan repurposed the hinge from a damaged MacBook Air, engineered a custom docking base, and 3D-printed several prototypes of the housing using a Bambu Lab H2D printer. The design features 12 built-in magnets to ensure the iPad stays securely in place, a raised typing angle for better comfort, and a slight lift to the MacBook Air’s base when opened to enhance cooling without the need for a fan.

    Shu Chan mentions that the build process involved over a dozen print attempts. The H2D’s sizable 350 × 320 × 325 mm build area allowed for the 13-inch iPad Pro housing to be printed in one go. The printer is capable of laser engraving and precision-cutting, and Shu Chan took advantage of these features to add custom graphics on the back cover of the iPadBook and create personalized stickers.

    Future Aspirations

    Looking ahead, Shu Chan plans to incorporate internal cable storage for a tidier wired Sidecar connection and is interested in experimenting with retro cases, like reusing an iBook G3 shell, to blend modern technology with vintage aesthetics.

    Shu Chan points out that the M4 iPad Pro’s chip is more powerful than the M1 in the MacBook Air base, and suggests that a future redesign utilizing an M4 Max MacBook Pro board could turn the iPadBook into a significantly more capable device. They credit the functionality of the Bambu Lab H2D and the MakerWorld community for assisting in making this idea a reality.

    The build video by Shu Chan on YouTube is in Mandarin Chinese, and currently, there’s no English translation available. However, even for those who don’t speak the language, it can be enjoyable to watch a dedicated modder create something impressive. Check out the video linked below.

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  • Apple iPad Spare Parts: High Prices Push Customers to Upgrade

    Apple iPad Spare Parts: High Prices Push Customers to Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple now offers genuine replacement components for iPad models through its Self-Service Repair Store, improving repair accessibility.
    2. Recent iPad models are easier to repair than older versions, although the glued-in display remains a challenge.
    3. Apple has changed its policy, allowing authorized service providers to perform iPad repairs, but high part prices still pose a barrier.
    4. Replacement parts are priced significantly higher than their production costs, making repairs less feasible for consumers.
    5. Apple’s pricing strategy seems designed to encourage customers to purchase new devices rather than repair existing ones, in response to “right to repair” regulations.


    Since May, Apple has been providing genuine replacement components for the iPad, iPad Air, and iPad Pro through its official Self-Service Repair Store. A teardown by iFixit reveals that the latest iPad models are significantly easier to fix compared to those from a few years back, though the glued-in display can still be a tricky part to work with.

    Changes in Repair Policies

    For many years, Apple-authorized service providers were not permitted to perform iPad repairs, but this has recently changed. Despite this, independent repair technicians recently told 404media that Apple is intentionally setting the prices of iPad replacement parts so high that it makes repairs unfeasible, pushing consumers toward purchasing a new iPad instead. For instance, Apple charges over $150 for a new USB-C port, and in some cases, the cost of a replacement display can exceed $700. Here’s a snapshot of the current pricing for spare parts from the Self-Service Repair Store:

    – iPad (Apple A16)
    – iPad Pro (13-inch, Apple M4)

    Pricing Strategy Behind Parts

    Jonathan Strange, the founder of XiRepair, suggests that Apple does not price its replacement parts according to their production costs. Instead, the pricing is aligned with the list price of the specific iPad models, ensuring that repairs remain costly and making the option of upgrading to a new tablet more appealing. The mere availability of replacement parts and the allowance for iPad repairs appear to be primarily in response to “right to repair” regulations, while simultaneously rendering repairs less viable for customers.

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  • Apple iPhone Could Introduce Tandem OLED Display with Key Benefits

    Apple iPhone Could Introduce Tandem OLED Display with Key Benefits

    Key Takeaways

    1. The latest Apple iPad Pro features a tandem OLED display with full-screen brightness of 1,000 nits and peak HDR brightness of 1,600 nits, while being power efficient.
    2. Apple is exploring the addition of tandem OLED displays for future iPhones, with LG Display proposing a simplified design aimed for late 2024.
    3. The new OLED layer arrangement will have the front layer containing all RGB subpixels and the back layer only blue subpixels, lowering costs and improving brightness and power efficiency.
    4. Apple is in discussions with LG Display and Samsung Display for these panels, with potential commercial use aligning with the iPhone 20 Pro in 2028.
    5. Development delays may occur primarily due to slower progress at Samsung Display, and Apple aims to avoid reliance on LG Display to mitigate supply chain risks.


    The latest Apple iPad Pro comes with a tandem OLED display that boasts a full-screen brightness of 1,000 nits and a peak HDR brightness of 1,600 nits, all while being relatively efficient in power use. A recent report from The Elec suggests that Apple is looking into adding a tandem OLED display to future iPhones. LG Display has reportedly offered to create a more simplified tandem panel specifically designed for the iPhone, with a target date set for late 2024.

    OLED Layer Arrangement

    In this design, rather than distributing all RGB subpixels across two layers of OLED, the front layer would contain all the subpixels, while the back layer would only have blue subpixels. This change is expected to lower costs and allow for increased brightness and reduced power consumption when compared to the OLED display found in the iPhone 16 Pro. Reports indicate that Apple is in discussions with LG Display and Samsung Display about creating these panels, with commercial use potentially aligning with the iPhone 20 Pro in 2028 at the earliest.

    Potential Delays

    The timeline for rolling out these simplified tandem OLED displays may be delayed mainly due to the slower development pace at Samsung Display. Additionally, Apple prefers not to rely solely on LG Display for manufacturing, as this could complicate price negotiations and heighten supply chain risks. As is typical with early rumors, it’s wise to take this information with a grain of salt, since Apple’s plans may shift in the upcoming years.

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  • Apple M5 iPad Pro Models Set for Major Design Upgrade

    Apple M5 iPad Pro Models Set for Major Design Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple plans to launch several new products in the second half of 2025, including the iPad Pro, Apple Watch, and iPhone 17 series.
    2. The iPad Pro will feature a new portrait-oriented selfie camera for improved video calls, alongside the traditional landscape camera.
    3. It is unclear if Face ID will work in both portrait and landscape orientations on the new iPad Pro.
    4. Design updates for the iPad Pro will include slimmer bezels with cameras hidden underneath, affecting both the 11-inch and 13-inch models.
    5. The Apple M5 chip in the iPad Pro is expected to have minimal performance enhancements, remaining within TSMC’s N3 family.


    A recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has shared an exciting outlook for Apple in the second half of 2025. There’s a series of new products expected, including the iPad Pro, Apple Watch, Apple Watch Ultra, Apple Watch SE, and Apple Vision Pro, all set to launch alongside the iPhone 17 series later this year. The iPad Pro, powered by the Apple M5 chip, is also set to get a subtle but significant upgrade beneath the surface.

    Camera Innovations

    This iPad Pro will introduce a portrait-oriented selfie camera, in addition to the traditional landscape camera. This improvement will give users the choice of orientation during video calls. However, it remains unclear whether Face ID will function in both orientations. While this upgrade enhances the user experience, it’s worth noting that many competitors, like the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, still stick to a landscape-only camera setup.

    Design Changes Ahead

    The design updates are expected to affect both the 11-inch and 13-inch models of the iPad Pro, which are already in mass production. The aim is for both cameras to be discreetly tucked away beneath the slimmer bezels, thanks to advancements in the OLED panels. Regarding the Apple M5 chip, it may not deliver significant performance enhancements as it is still rooted in TSMC’s N3 family (N3P).

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  • M5 iPad Pro 11-inch and 13-inch Displays Enter Mass Production

    M5 iPad Pro 11-inch and 13-inch Displays Enter Mass Production

    Key Takeaways

    1. Last year’s iPad Pro featured the M4 chip, slim design, and outstanding OLED displays, receiving positive reviews.
    2. The upcoming iPad Pro is expected to have incremental upgrades, including the new M5 SoC and reduced bezels.
    3. Displays for the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro models have begun mass production, involving suppliers Samsung and LG.
    4. The M5 iPad Pro may launch in October, following Apple’s typical timeline for new product releases.
    5. Information about the upcoming iPad Pro should be taken cautiously, though it appears credible based on industry buzz.


    Last year’s iPad Pro, which was powered by the M4 chip, marked one of the most significant upgrades to Apple’s flagship tablet in recent times. With its impressively slim design, a robust desktop-class system-on-chip (SoC), and outstanding OLED displays, both reviewers and customers had a lot of good things to say about this product.

    Incremental Changes Ahead

    For the upcoming model, it’s not surprising that Apple is going for slight improvements. Besides the new M5 SoC and reduced bezels, there don’t seem to be any major changes or enhancements planned for this year’s iPad Pro.

    Display Production News

    A new report from DigiTimes Asia, which was noticed by MacRumors, indicates that the displays for both the 11-inch and 13-inch versions of the iPad Pro have begun mass production. The usual suppliers, Samsung and LG, are involved in this process.

    This news aligns with earlier speculations suggesting that the M5 iPad Pro may launch in October, a timeframe when Apple usually unveils new iPads and Macs. The current M4 iPad Pro (currently priced at $919 on Amazon) was revealed in May of last year, suggesting an approximate 18-month update cycle for this line of products.

    Take It With Caution

    Like all reports before a product’s release, it’s wise to take this information lightly. Nonetheless, based on the continuous buzz in the industry, the information seems to be credible enough to consider.

  • Apple iPad Pro: Slimmer Bezels Coming with Tandem OLED Display

    Apple iPad Pro: Slimmer Bezels Coming with Tandem OLED Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPad Pro received a significant update with the introduction of M4-based models featuring Tandem OLED panels.
    2. Apple is adding LX Semicon to its supply chain to develop a new display driver IC, moving away from Samsung’s exclusivity.
    3. The new display driver IC will be paired with LG Innotek’s chip-on-film technology, allowing for thinner bezels.
    4. These changes may lead to either larger displays or smaller iPad Pro models in the future.
    5. The anticipated updates could be included in the upcoming iPad Pro (8th generation) with an M5 chipset.


    The iPad Pro got a big update last year, introducing the Apple M4-based 11-inch and 13-inch models (curr. $928.99 – refurbished on Amazon). The 7th generation iPad Pro not only showcased the M4 chipset but also featured Tandem OLED panels for the first time in the lineup. Reports suggest that Apple might be looking to enhance the display even further in the near future.

    New Supply Chain Moves

    DigiTimes has indicated that Apple is adding LX Semicon to its supply chain for upcoming iPad Pro models. LX Semicon has been given the job of developing a new display driver IC, which Apple hopes to finalize within the next week. This shift would mean that Apple is moving away from its reliance on Samsung System LSI, which currently holds exclusivity over display driver ICs for all iPad Pro (7th generation) tablets.

    Innovative Technology Integration

    In another report, The Elec mentions that Apple aims to pair LX Semicon’s display driver IC with LG Innotek’s chip-on-film (CoF) technology. This technology uses heat to bond display driver ICs to a flexible film. As a result, this change could allow Apple to create more space for reducing the size of display bezels.

    This change could mean either larger displays within the same chassis or smaller 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pros. However, neither DigiTimes nor The Elec offered details on when these display enhancements might be introduced. The hint that Apple plans to approve a new display driver IC this month suggests that these updates might be pushed to the iPad Pro (8th generation), which is anticipated to feature an Apple M5 chipset.

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  • Logitech Launches Flip Folio with Innovative Keyboard for iPad

    Logitech Launches Flip Folio with Innovative Keyboard for iPad

    Key Takeaways

    1. Logitech has launched the Flip Folio case for iPad Air and iPad Pro, alongside Apple’s iPadOS 26 announcement.
    2. The Flip Folio combines the Keys-to-Go 2 keyboard with a case that includes a built-in kickstand, allowing the keyboard to magnetically attach when not in use.
    3. The keyboard features 1 mm key travel, lacks backlighting, and has a battery life of up to 1,460 hours using four CR2016 batteries.
    4. The case includes an adjustable kickstand that can also serve as a folio cover and allows vertical placement of an iPad and smartphone side by side.
    5. The Flip Folio is priced at $159.99 for 11-inch models and $179.99 for 13-inch models, with shipments expected to start by the end of the month.


    Logitech has rolled out a new case tailored for the iPad Air and iPad Pro, coinciding with Apple’s unveiling of iPadOS 26. It’s worth noting that Logitech already has a range of cases available for many iPads, including the Combo Touch, Folio Touch, and Slim Folio, among others. Although several of these options come with trackpads, the Flip Folio takes a different approach.

    Unique Design

    The Flip Folio merges Logitech’s established Keys-to-Go 2 keyboard with a case that includes a built-in kickstand. As demonstrated in the video below, the keyboard can magnetically attach to the back of the case when it’s not in use. However, it does not directly connect to the tablet. Instead, it functions as a self-contained unit similar to many Bluetooth keyboards.

    Key Features

    Each key on the keyboard offers 1 mm of travel but lacks backlighting. The variant designed for 11-inch iPads has an 18 mm key pitch, which is 1 mm narrower compared to its 13-inch counterparts. Reportedly, the keyboard can operate for up to 1,460 hours powered by four CR2016 coin cell batteries and is compatible with almost any device that supports Bluetooth Low Energy.

    Additional Functionality

    The case features an adjustable kickstand that can also wrap around to act as a folio cover. It attaches to the iPad using magnets and includes a small lip that allows users to place an iPad and a smartphone side by side vertically. At present, the Logitech Flip Folio is available for order at $159.99 for 11-inch models or $179.99 for 13-inch variants. The shipments for Graphite and Midnight Black are expected to begin before the month concludes, while Logitech plans to introduce more color choices seen in their promotional video by September.

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  • iPadOS 26: True Multitasking, Background Processes, and File Management

    iPadOS 26: True Multitasking, Background Processes, and File Management

    Key Takeaways

    1. iPadOS 26 features a new “Liquid Glass” aesthetic design with updated app icons and transparent menus.
    2. Enhanced multitasking allows users to display and resize multiple app windows on the screen, similar to desktop systems.
    3. A new menu bar at the top of the screen offers quick access to common features, and the Preview app is now available for document editing.
    4. The Files app is revamped for better file organization and searching, with new features for managing downloads and dragging files.
    5. iPadOS 26 introduces a new Gaming app and the Journal app, with a developer beta available now and a public beta expected in July.


    Shortly after the launch of iOS 26, Apple also unveiled iPadOS 26, the latest major version of the operating system for the iPad, during the WWDC opening event yesterday. The iPad will feature similar design updates as the iPhone, including a newly designed user interface in a “Liquid Glass” aesthetic. This update brings new app icons, transparent menus, widgets, and pop-ups, along with various elements that are see-through, blurring backgrounds, and contrasting with light and shadow effects.

    Enhanced Multitasking Features

    The standout aspect of iPadOS 26 is the revamped multitasking capabilities. Apple is finally letting iPad users show a greater number of app windows on their screens at once, allowing them to resize these windows freely and place apps anywhere they want, much like on Windows or macOS. Just like in desktop systems, windows can simply be dragged to the edge of the screen to resize them to half or a quarter of the display area.

    With a simple swipe gesture, users can easily view all open windows side by side. Apple has also introduced a menu bar at the top of the screen, reminiscent of the Mac, which makes commonly used features readily available. The Preview app is now included on the iPad, enabling users to open and edit various document types without needing third-party applications. For the first time, true background processes can function, even those that are heavy on the processor, like video exporting.

    Files App and New Additions

    Apple has revamped the Files app, making it much more user-friendly for sorting files into folders and searching through them, similar to the experience on macOS. Downloads can now be located in the designated folder in the Dock. Users can also drag files and folders directly from the Files app into the Dock. Additionally, iPadOS 26 introduces Apple’s new Gaming app, which allows users to download and access games and start multiplayer sessions with friends. The Journal app, which users may recognize from the iPhone, is now available on the iPad as well.

    iPadOS 26 is currently accessible as a developer beta, with a public beta expected to be released in July and the final version available as a free update in the fall. This operating system can be installed on the 2018 iPad Pro, the third-generation iPad Air, the eighth-generation iPad, the fifth-generation iPad mini, and all newer models.

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  • Mark Gurman: iPadOS 19 to Bring New macOS Features This Year

    Mark Gurman: iPadOS 19 to Bring New macOS Features This Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is positioning the iPad Pro as a laptop alternative with the new M4 chip in 11-inch and 13-inch models priced at $1,099.
    2. Current limitations of iPadOS prevent the iPad Pro from providing a full desktop experience, unlike devices like the Surface Pro.
    3. iPadOS 19 is expected to launch in September or October, aiming to make the system more similar to macOS.
    4. The update will focus on enhancing app window management, multitasking, and overall productivity.
    5. Specific details about the changes in iPadOS 19 have not yet been revealed.


    Apple has been promoting the iPad Pro as a substitute for laptops for quite some time. With the introduction of the Apple M4 chip, which is available in both the 11-inch and 13-inch models (currently priced at $1,099 on Amazon), the likelihood of these pricey tablets replacing traditional laptops seems stronger than ever.

    Limitations of iPadOS

    However, the current restrictions of iPadOS still hinder the full potential of the iPad Pro. As we pointed out in our reviews of the iPad Pro 11 and 13 last year, Apple’s claims aside, the iPad Pro cannot yet deliver the same desktop operating system experience as the Surface Pro, even when using the ARM version of Windows 11.

    Upcoming Changes

    New insights from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg suggest that Apple is planning to bridge this gap with the launch of iPadOS 19. This update is expected to arrive in either September or October and aims to make the operating system “more like macOS” in three main areas.

    Gurman indicates that iPadOS 19 will enhance app window management, building on the Stage Manager feature introduced three years ago. Additionally, the update is rumored to improve multitasking and overall productivity. Unfortunately, specific details about what these changes will entail have not yet been disclosed.

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