iPad Pro: Why major updates are missing

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The iPad Pro has stood for high-end tablet technology for years. With powerful M-series chips, a high-quality display, and a clear focus on professional applications, it occupies a special place in Apple's portfolio. However, recent information suggests that the pace of innovation could slow significantly. Major technical or visual changes do not appear to be planned for the time being.

According to Instant Digital, a reliable leaker active on Weibo, there won't be a major update for the iPad Pro for quite some time. Apple is expected to continue releasing new versions, but without any significant design or technological leaps.

Reasons cited include the continued high cost of the OLED panel used in the device. Furthermore, the last major redesign reportedly failed to generate significant revenue growth. Against this backdrop, Apple may have adjusted its strategy and is focusing on smaller improvements for the time being.

The major redesign in 2024

In May 2024, Apple unveiled the first comprehensive redesign of the iPad Pro since 2018, marking a significant step in product development.

Key changes included the introduction of an OLED display. The new panel provided better contrast, deeper blacks, and an overall higher-quality image. At the same time, the device was redesigned and modernized.

Despite these significant innovations, the redesign, according to the leaker, did not bring about the hoped-for significant increase in sales figures. This was likely a decisive factor for Apple in planning future developments more cautiously.

Update in October 2025: M5 chip and minor improvements

In October 2025, the iPad Pro received another update, integrating the new M5 chip. This resulted in a performance increase compared to the previous model.

Apple also made minor improvements to connectivity. However, there were no major external changes or a further design update. The basic concept of the design introduced in 2024 was retained.

This development fits with current rumors: Apple apparently relies on regular model updates, but without a fundamental reinvention of the device.

No extremely thin display bezels are planned

Another point concerns potential design adjustments. According to "Instant Digital", Apple is not currently planning any major visual changes, such as extremely thin display bezels like those found on some competing high-end tablets.

This means that the iPad Pro's external design is likely to remain largely unchanged. Those hoping for a radical design overhaul will probably have to prepare for a longer wait.

Outlook: M6 chip and new cooling from 2026 or 2027

Another technical update is expected in late 2026 or 2027. The iPad Pro is then expected to receive the M6 chip. Additionally, there is talk of vapor chamber cooling, which is said to be similar to the design of the iPhone 17 Pro.

Such cooling would better control heat generation under high load and could ensure more stable continuous performance. Aside from these two points, however, there are no further concrete rumors regarding the future development of the product line.

iPad Pro: Minor updates instead of major design changes

The iPad Pro remains a powerful premium tablet. However, after the major redesign in 2024 and the M5 update in October 2025, Apple seems to be taking a more measured approach. High OLED costs and the apparent lack of significant revenue growth following the last major design change may have led to a pause in major innovations for the time being. Instead, regular, but smaller, technical updates are to be expected. For the coming years, there are many indications that the iPad Pro will continue to evolve rather than revolutionize. (Image: Shutterstock / Wongsakorn 2468)