Meet the new M5 iPad Pro

iPadOS 26 supercharges the M5 iPad Pro with a desktop-class Files app and the new Preview tool. It is the most significant update yet for those looking to replace their laptop with a versatile tablet.

November 1, 2025

Written by

Craig Stanton

Apple M5 chip

The arrival of the M5 iPad Pro signals a shift in how Apple views its most powerful tablet. While previous versions focused on portability, the M5 model is built around advanced intelligence and heavy-duty processing. With the new M5 chip, this device offers a massive jump in speed for tasks like photo editing, video rendering, and AI-driven applications.

Stanton Mac Support is an Apple-focused tech support company based in Somerville, specializing in tutoring, troubleshooting, and problem-solving for Mac and Apple users across Greater Boston. If you need help deciding which model fits your workflow, we can help you navigate these new choices through our product research services.

Significant Power and Better Connections

The headline of this new release is the M5 chip. In plain terms, it makes the iPad significantly faster than the models from just a few years ago. For example, if you are moving from an M1 iPad Pro, you will see graphics performance that is over six times faster. This isn't just for gamers; it affects anyone using design apps like Adobe Illustrator or architects using SketchUp. The device also handles multitasking better thanks to increased memory bandwidth, which helps the iPad stay responsive even when you have several demanding apps open at once.

Connectivity has also received a major boost. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 7 and a more efficient cellular modem means faster downloads and more reliable connections while traveling. Apple has also updated the storage technology to be twice as fast, meaning files open quicker and saving large projects takes less time. Even the battery charging has been improved, with a new fast-charge capability that can get the tablet to fifty percent power in about thirty minutes when using the correct adapter.

A New Look and Smarter Software

The hardware is paired with iPadOS 26, which introduces a fresh visual style called Liquid Glass. This design uses translucent elements that make the interface feel more modern and responsive to your touch. Beyond the looks, the software finally addresses some long-standing complaints about how the iPad handles files and windows. There is now a more flexible windowing system that makes it easier to switch between tasks, and a new menu bar that brings desktop-style shortcuts to the top of the screen.

Productivity users will appreciate the arrival of a dedicated Preview app, which makes managing and signing PDFs much simpler with the Apple Pencil. The Files app has also been updated to allow for better organization, including the ability to put folders directly in the Dock for quick access. For those who work at a desk, the iPad can now power external monitors with smoother motion and less lag, making it a much more viable replacement for a traditional computer in a home office or studio setting.

Selecting the Right Pro Model

Choosing between the 11-inch and 13-inch models often comes down to how you plan to use the device. The 13-inch model is incredibly thin at just 5.1mm, making it a great canvas for artists, while the 11-inch remains the king of portability. Both feature the Ultra Retina XDR display, which offers some of the best color and brightness levels available on any mobile device. Whether you are a creative professional or a business user, these new updates provide a lot of headroom for the future.

If you are looking to upgrade your setup or need assistance moving your data to a new device, our team is ready to help. We provide expert guidance for individuals and small businesses to ensure your technology works for you rather than against you. To get started with a personalized setup or to ask questions about the M5 lineup, please contact us today.

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