Apple is working on the next iPad Pro. According to current reports, the upcoming generation with the M5 chip won't bring any major surprises, but it will feature a few targeted changes. Most notable: It will feature two front-facing cameras for the first time.
With the M4 iPad Pro, Apple redesigned the device last year. The front camera moved from the top to the longer side of the device—from portrait to landscape orientation. This was a logical adjustment for many, as the iPad Pro is often used in landscape mode, for example, with a keyboard. However, it also drew criticism. Some users found the new camera location impractical, especially for selfies or FaceTime in portrait orientation. Apple seems to be taking this feedback seriously—and is now responding with a new camera setup.
Second front camera planned on the portrait side
According to a report by Mark Gurman in his Power On newsletter (Bloomberg), Apple plans to install a second front-facing camera on the upcoming M5 iPad Pro. This will be located on the portrait side – in addition to the existing camera on the landscape side. The idea is apparently to make using the device equally comfortable in both orientations. This could improve the user experience, especially for video calls or selfies. The change may not seem particularly spectacular at first glance, but it addresses a specific point of criticism. With two cameras on different sides, the iPad can automatically use the appropriate camera depending on how it is held. This should be particularly useful for FaceTime calls. There is no indication that the cameras will have different technical features. Gurman also emphasizes that the second camera is probably not a radical innovation, but rather a practical improvement.
Response to user criticism
Apple moved the front camera to the landscape side of the iPad Pro for the first time. This made sense, as many people use the iPad Pro in landscape mode, especially with the Magic Keyboard. However, some users felt limited by the new camera setup. In his report, Gurman expressed surprise that Apple responded—according to him, the criticism wasn't too loud—but he doesn't see any disadvantages in the new solution. The second camera is supposed to blend well into the casing, even if it does make the layout look a bit more unusual.
The M5 chip comes first in the iPad Pro
Besides the new camera, the M5 chip is the second major update. What's particularly interesting is that the iPad Pro will be the first device with the new Apple processor. According to Gurman, the first M5 Macs aren't expected to launch until the first half of 2026. This puts a clear focus on the iPad Pro as the pioneer of new Apple silicon technology. No details are yet available regarding the chip's performance specifications, but it's safe to assume that the M5 will once again offer improvements in performance and energy efficiency.
Otherwise no major changes expected
Apart from the new chip and the camera update, no other major innovations are planned, according to current information. The case design will likely remain the same—after all, it was only recently revised with the M4 model. There are currently no indications of any major innovations in the display or software.
Apple focuses on fine-tuning the M5 iPad Pro
The M5 iPad Pro is expected to be unveiled later this year. It brings targeted improvements without rethinking the device's core concept. The second front-facing camera is a response to feedback from the user community, and the new M5 chip marks the next step in Apple's silicon strategy. Those expecting major design changes or new features may be disappointed—but for anyone looking for a powerful, well-designed work device, the update could be interesting. (Image: Apple)
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