Apple M5 iPad Pro: What to Expect from the Upcoming Release

Apple is set to shake things up with the upcoming M5 iPad Pro, featuring a major performance boost and a surprising design twist. While many expected Apple to stick with its usual launch schedule, this year has seen a deviation.

Unlike previous years, the tech giant did not release an M5 iteration of the iPad Pro in the spring. Initially, rumors suggested a 2026 release, but new information points to a sooner-than-expected arrival.

Production of the M5 iPad Pro’s OLED displays has officially begun, according to a recent report out of Korea. This is a strong indication that the tablet’s release is just around the corner, likely in October or November. Samsung and LG are reportedly responsible for the OLED panels for the 11-inch and 13-inch variants of the iPad Pro, though they will be sharing the supply for both sizes this time around. Apple is keen on getting its suppliers familiar with OLED technology as it plans to extend the display upgrade to other iPad models in the coming years. The iPad mini will be the first to get the OLED upgrade in 2026, followed by the iPad Air in 2027. Additionally, OLED displays are expected to find their way into the MacBook Pro models as well.

The M5 iPad Pro will feature Apple’s new M5 chip, which promises significant gains in both computational and graphical performance. This chip is based on TSMC’s 3nm process, just like the current one, but will benefit from improved thermals and higher clock speeds, possibly thanks to Apple’s new Vapor Exchange system, which debuted on the iPhone. The new iPad will likely come with upgraded battery life, aided by AI battery optimization, and an increase in RAM, potentially up to 36GB. Rumors also suggest that Apple could add a 4TB or 8TB storage option to the iPad Pro, although these details are still unconfirmed.

In terms of design, the M5 iPad Pro will maintain much of the look of the previous generation, but there is one notable change. The Apple logo on the back of the tablet will switch to a landscape orientation, ensuring the logo is upright when the device is held in landscape mode. This is a small but welcome tweak, as many users prefer to use their iPads in landscape orientation.

While there may not be a major redesign this year, the performance improvements and new OLED displays are enough to make the M5 iPad Pro an enticing upgrade for those looking for the best in tablet technology.