Apple’s new M5 iPad Pro proves it still owns the tablet game

The new iPad Pro with Apple’s M5 chip is faster, smarter, and thinner than ever—with big AI upgrades, Wi-Fi 7, and iPadOS 26.

Abbas Jaffar Ali
By
Abbas Jaffar Ali
Abbas has been covering tech for more than two decades- before phones became smart or clouds stored data. He brought publications like CNET, TechRadar and IGN...
4 Min Read
Apple’s new M5 iPad Pro proves it still owns the tablet game
TL;DR
  • M5 chip delivers up to 5.6x faster performance than M1 models
  • Massive AI boost with Neural Accelerators in every GPU core
  • Wi-Fi 7 and 50% faster 5G with Apple’s new N1 and C1X chips
  • Starts at AED 4,199 in the UAE — pre-orders open now

Apple has launched the new iPad Pro with the M5 chip, and it’s built for serious speed. The new chip brings per-core Neural Accelerators, next-gen graphics, and better multitasking. And with iPadOS 26 adding a fresh new look and desktop-style windowing, this is more than an upgrade — it’s Apple’s most laptop-like iPad yet.

The iPad Pro M5 lands in UAE stores on 22 October, with prices starting from AED 4,199.


M5 chip turns the iPad Pro into an AI workhorse

The M5 chip is all about performance and intelligence. Each GPU core now has its own Neural Accelerator, making AI-heavy tasks up to 3.5x faster than before.

  • 10-core GPU with new AI architecture
  • 16-core Neural Engine for better efficiency
  • Up to 5.6x faster than M1 iPad Pro

This means smoother editing in DaVinci Resolve, faster image generation in Draw Things, and real-time rendering without the fan noise of a laptop. Even Apple’s on-device AI, Apple Intelligence, runs better on this chip.


M5’s graphics and speed are next-level

Apple’s new ray-tracing engine means the iPad Pro finally handles console-grade visuals. The CPU is also up to 1.5x faster than the M4 model.

Performance jumps:

  • 6.7x faster 3D rendering in Octane X
  • 6x faster video exports in Final Cut Pro
  • 4x faster AI image generation in Draw Things

Designers, editors, and architects who live in Illustrator or Morpholio Trace will notice the difference instantly.


Wi-Fi 7, faster storage, and more memory

The new N1 and C1X chips bring serious connectivity upgrades. Wi-Fi 7 means faster downloads and better stability, while the C1X modem delivers 50% faster cellular speeds.

Other upgrades include:

  • 150GB/s unified memory bandwidth (30% up)
  • Up to 2x faster storage speeds
  • Fast charge support (50% in ~30 minutes)

Multitasking on iPadOS 26 feels instant, with new app windows and file management tools that make it behave more like a MacBook — without actually being one.


A thinner, brighter iPad Pro with an OLED punch

Apple didn’t just make it faster — it made it slimmer too. The 13-inch model is only 5.1mm thick, and the Ultra Retina XDR display is now OLED-based with extreme brightness and colour precision.

Display features:

  • Tandem OLED panel with 1600 nits peak brightness
  • Nano-texture glass option for reduced glare
  • Supports external 120Hz displays with Adaptive Sync

The display looks stunning for video editing, colour work, or just bingeing shows.


iPad Pro M5: UAE pricing and release date

Pricing:

  • 11-inch Wi-Fi: AED 4,199
  • 11-inch Wi-Fi + Cellular: AED 4,999
  • 13-inch Wi-Fi: AED 5,499
  • 13-inch Wi-Fi + Cellular: AED 6,299

Accessories:

  • Apple Pencil Pro: AED 529
  • Magic Keyboard: from AED 1,199

Pre-orders are open now on Apple UAE’s store, and devices hit shelves on 22 October.


What’s new about the M5 chip in iPad Pro?

It introduces a Neural Accelerator in every GPU core, boosting AI performance by 3.5x compared to M4 and making creative workflows faster and smoother.

Does iPad Pro M5 support Wi-Fi 7?

Yes. The new N1 chip enables Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread for faster and more reliable connections.

What’s the difference between the 11-inch and 13-inch models?

Performance is identical. The 13-inch offers a larger Ultra Retina XDR display and slightly longer battery life.

Is the new Magic Keyboard compatible with older iPads?

No, it’s redesigned specifically for the M5 iPad Pro lineup.

When is the iPad Pro M5 available in UAE stores?

Retail availability begins Wednesday, 22 October 2025.

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Abbas has been covering tech for more than two decades- before phones became smart or clouds stored data. He brought publications like CNET, TechRadar and IGN to the Middle East. From computers to mobile phones and watches, Abbas is always interested in tech that is smarter and smaller.