If you were hoping for a groundbreaking iPad Pro with an even sleeker design or hardware innovations, we’re probably in for some disappointing news. According to Instant Digital, Apple has no major changes planned for the iPad Pro in the coming years. Instead, the company consciously opts for small, gradual upgrades.
This is because OLED screen prices are not falling fast enough and the 2024 redesign has not significantly increased sales. As a result, Apple sees no urgent need for a rapid innovation and focuses on internal improvements to keep the powerful tablet relevant for professionals.
iPad Pro fully developed?
The current iPad Pro, equipped with an M4/M5 chip, is an ultra-thin tablet with a tandem OLED screen, exceptional performance and a battery life that can handle heavy pro tasks without obstacles. The iPad can efficiently run video editing, 3D modeling and AI workloads, while its design has been perfectly optimized for portability and cooling since 2024.
Apple has refined the iPad Pro to the point where significant changes are no longer necessary; the hardware is future-proofed for years to come, supported by iPadOS updates and accessories like the Apple Pencil Pro. Reviews recognize it as the best tablet in the world, perfect as a laptop replacement for creatives, without any significant weaknesses.
No major new updates for the time being
According to Instant Digital, Apple has no major changes planned for the iPad Pro in the coming years. Instead, the company consciously opts for small, gradual upgrades. The switch to OLED in 2024 was expensive and complex, with production costs that will remain high for the time being. Instant Digital emphasizes that this puts a brake on wild plans such as ultra-thin screen edges, which competitors already offer.
In addition, the 2024 redesign – the first since 2018 – did not boost sales enough to justify Apple quickly investing in a new chassis. Instead, Apple will keep the current ultra-thin design longer and focus on performance under the hood.
Recent upgrades as a basis
In October 2025, the iPad Pro was equipped with the M5 chip, along with improved connectivity such as Wi-Fi 7 and faster SSDs. This development builds on the M4 with OLED and the 2024 slim design, offering improved AI performance and multitasking. This modest upgrade reflects Apple’s strategy: frequent chip updates without visible changes. Owners of recent models are therefore not likely to be left behind.
Future minor upgrades
The next step will come around late 2026 or early 2027: the M6 ​​chip, made with a 2nm process for better efficiency and speed. Expect improvements in AI performance, longer battery life, and performance closer to that of a MacBook.
An important addition is vapor chamber cooling for the processor, inspired by the iPhone 17 Pro. This liquid cooling system helps to disperse heat well, so the iPad Pro can perform heavy tasks like video editing or gaming for longer without lag, perfect for professional apps.
There could also be minor improvements in connectivity in the future, such as Apple’s own modem for 5G or satellite. Don’t expect a redesign, but these adjustments make the iPad Pro future-proof for demanding users.