In a surprise move and without the usual unveiling event due to Covid-19, Apple is launching the newiPad Pro 11 (2020) and iPad Pro 12.9 ( 2020), successors to the iPad Pro 11 (2018 ) and iPad Pro 12.9 (2018).
The new models have a design that echoes previous ones, some new features and upgrades, a new chipset, and a LiDAR scanner. Other features have remained mostly the same as previous versions.
Apple is already making the new iPad Pro 11 and iPad Pro 12.9 available with deliveries starting March 25, but will no longer sell the 2018 models, so if your choice is to buy an older model you can buy it Refurbished on our shop.
The 2018 and 2020 starting prices are very similar, but now the older models will be more affordable since Apple will no longer make them available.
In terms of design, both the 2018 and 2020 iPad Pro 11 measure 247.6 x 178.5 x 5.9 mm, while both versions of the iPad Pro 12.9 measure 280.6 x 214.9 x 5.9 mm.
They are very similar, even the weight varies little: iPad Pro 11 (2020) weighs 471 grams compared to 468 grams for the 2018 model.
iPad Pro 12.9 2020 weighs 641 grams, compared to 631 grams for the 2018 version.
Both generations are available in 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes. Video resolution and pixel density remains the same, both models with resolutions of 1668×2388 and 264 pixels per inch, and 2048×2732 and 264 pixels per inch.
The basic technology also remains similar: all models have a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz and all include the "True Tone" function that automatically adjusts the white balance according to the ambient light.
New is certainly the dual cameras on the back with 10-megapixel ultra-wide-angle and a 12-megapixel wide-angle lens. Also debuting is the new LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor that improves photo taking but also the use of augmented reality.
The front camera has also undergone slight changes, while the older models have a 7 MP sensor the new iPad Pro 2020s are equipped with LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor, which can improve depth detection that should activate you in self-portrait mode.
Regarding the battery, Apple states that all models offer up to 10 hours of battery life, so it appears that there are no improvements in this regard.
The novelty of the iPad Pro 2020 is in the chipset. The new models use the A12Z Bionic processor, which Apple™ says is faster than most processors found in Windows Notebooks.
Other specifications include 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB of storage space, which is the same storage capacity as the older models, add the 64 GB variant being replaced with the 128 GB variant.
All models run iPadOS but the new 2020 iPad Pro models come with iPadOS 13.4 preinstalled, which adds trackpad support. Earlier models are expected to receive the update shortly.
Is it worth upgrading?
A lot seems to have changed with the new iPad Pro models, but so many other features have remained the same.
Design, screens, and range are very similar to the previous generation, except for the new chipset, additional camera lens, LiDAR scanner, and more storage space.
Ultimately, the 2018 iPad Pros still remain among the best tablets out there and today, more than ever before, even more affordable in price.
Perhaps they will be replaced by the new versions tomorrow, but we will have to wait for more accurate reviews.
