PROS:

• Stunning industrial design


• Solid build quality


• High-end performance


• Gorgeous Tandem OLED display


• Great battery life


• Awesome keyboard and accessory support

CONS:

• iPad Pro M4 & accessories are considerably expensive


• iPadOS is restrictive and feels outdated

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS

ERGONOMICS

PERFORMANCE

SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY

VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Impossibly thin and powered by the M4 chip, the iPad Pro is one of the best-looking tablets ever. It surprises and delights, harmonizing beauty and utility for an unmatched tactile experience.

The iPad Pro M4 feels like holding the future in your hands. It’s sleek, light, and incredibly refined, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with stunning design. Apple’s newest tablet redefines what’s possible with a dazzling display and a performance that transforms everyday tasks into something extraordinary.

Designer: Apple

At its heart, the M4 chip delivers unmatched speed and efficiency. Whether you’re creating digital art, editing videos, or browsing the web, everything feels faster and more responsive. The vibrant, crisp display enhances every visual experience, from movies to professional-grade design work.

Aesthetics

The iPad Pro, powered by Apple’s M4 chip, is one of the best-looking tablets of all time. For me, what makes a product the best in its class is its ability to surprise and delight the owners and wow those around them. I’ve been using it in the last week, and it has rarely left my side. A great product ticks all the boxes, from form to function and everything in between.

Apple iPad Pro M4 with Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro

This year, Apple impressed many with the tablet’s thinness. I find it shocking when I hear comments from megastar YouTubers like MKBHD, who asked who was asking for a thinner iPad and stated he would rather have the same thickness as the outgoing model but with a longer battery life. What he’s missing is that longer battery life won’t win our hearts—it’s something we can easily manage by charging up. But come on, when you pick up the iPad Pro M4 and sense how thin and light it is, that’s the tactile experience we want. The burden of carrying a heavier and thicker tablet has been lifted for me. This is a fantastic design choice, Apple. To answer his question: Who was asking for a thinner iPad Pro? Well, that was me.

We’ve all heard the saying, “less is more,” when it comes to design. Knowing and being willing to remove what’s unnecessary is much harder than adding this or that. And in this case, the reduction in thickness and weight—now down to just under a pound for the 11-inch model and a little over a pound for the 13-inch—speaks volumes the moment you pick it up. In terms of usability, whether you’re using it with the Magic Keyboard, Folio, or just on its own, it’s magical.

The aesthetics are simply breathtaking. The device perfectly blends elegance and sophistication with a sleek, minimalist design that looks futuristic. The aluminum body is smooth and meticulously crafted, with precise edges and a refined finish that makes it look sophisticated and high-end. You can choose between Silver and Space Gray, both with a matte finish that adds to the premium look. These colors are versatile and professional, making the iPad Pro M4 perfect for any situation. Whether you’re using it in the office, in a coffee shop, or just relaxing at home using your favorite apps, it fits right in.

My three go-to entertainment sources are Apple TV, Netflix, and YouTube. They’re simply perfect, which is the ideal place to mention that this is where iPadOS shines because these apps let you download shows to watch offline. It’s a nice touch.

Every time I use the iPad Pro in portrait mode, it reminds me of the authority a clipboard brings. Imagine someone walking into a busy room with a clipboard and pen—it gives the impression they mean business. It’s like in “House,” where Dr. Cuddy, often seen with a clipboard, epitomizes control and authority. In the episode “Insensitive” from season three, Cuddy wields her clipboard to manage the hospital’s chaos, symbolizing her command and precision. There’s a moment where she’s juggling multiple tasks, handling House’s antics, and still keeping her cool—all while holding that clipboard. It becomes a symbol of her ability to manage and orchestrate the complex dynamics of the hospital. I can see this happening in many real-world instances where people do the same, except using the iPad Pro and Apple Pencil Pro.

Comically, this slate of glass combined with the Apple Pencil Pro gives me that nostalgic feeling. Like Cuddy’s clipboard, the iPad Pro M4 signifies a blend of modern technology and timeless functionality. Regardless of which iPad model you pick, it’s the tool that becomes the modern-day version of the classic clipboard. This feeling of holding an essential, authoritative tool makes the iPad Pro unique. It transforms how you approach tasks, making everything feel more organized and efficient, just as a clipboard does in a busy environment. The iPad Pro M4 looks and feels futuristic but also brings a touch of nostalgia that resonates with anyone who has ever relied on the simplicity and power of a clipboard.

One of the most striking features of the iPad Pro M4 is its display. The tandem OLED screen offers brighter visuals, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors, making everything you do on the iPad look fantastic. The screen stretches almost edge to edge, thanks to the thin bezels and lack of a home button, which gives the device a modern, clean look. Apple’s attention to detail is evident throughout. The rounded corners and chamfered edges make the iPad comfortable to hold and add to its aesthetic appeal. The buttons and ports are strategically placed to maintain the sleek lines, and even the camera bump is designed to blend in seamlessly.

The iPad Pro M4’s design works perfectly with its accessories. The new Magic Keyboard, for instance, enhances the iPad’s functionality and aesthetics. It features a sleek, minimalist design that matches the iPad’s finish and form. The floating cantilever design allows the iPad to magnetically attach and hover above the keyboard, offering a range of viewing angles and adding a futuristic touch. The keyboard is backlit, excellent for working in low-light conditions, and the keys are well-spaced with a scissor mechanism that provides a comfortable, responsive typing experience. The integrated trackpad supports multi-touch gestures and cursor functionality, transforming the iPad Pro into a more laptop-like device and boosting productivity.

Additionally, the Magic Keyboard includes a USB-C port for passthrough charging, allowing you to charge the iPad while keeping its main USB-C port free for other accessories. The magnetic attachment and smart connector ensure seamless connectivity, with no need for pairing or separate charging. When closed, the Magic Keyboard serves as a protective cover for the iPad Pro, shielding both the front and back from scratches and minor impacts. Despite its robust build, the Magic Keyboard remains relatively lightweight and slim, enhancing the portability of the iPad Pro without adding significant bulk.

Of course, that begs the question: Is the iPad Pro M4 any more magical than the last iPad M2? Well, that depends on your expectations, requirements, and lifestyle. If you’re like me and value the blend of cutting-edge technology with an elegant and functional design, the iPad Pro M4 is a clear winner. The improvements in weight, thinness, and display quality, combined with the powerful M4 processor, make it not just a tool but a companion that delights in every use.

Ergonomics

Apple has perfected the ergonomics with the iPad Pro M4. Its lightweight and slim profile make it a joy to hold, whether you’re using it in portrait or landscape mode. The intuitive placement of buttons and ports ensures easy access without disrupting the device’s sleek lines. A significant improvement is the horizontally aligned front camera, which provides a more natural angle for video calls, making virtual meetings feel more engaging and less awkward. This new camera position also signals that the iPad is inching closer to laptop status, enhancing its appeal as a versatile productivity tool.

The term “laptop” denotes functionality and comfort when used on your lap. The iPad Pro M4, especially when paired with the Magic Keyboard, embodies this ideal better than any tablet. Its sleek design, powerful performance, and practical accessories rival traditional laptops, ensuring comfort and functionality when used on your lap.

The Magic Keyboard provides a comfortable typing experience with well-spaced keys and responsive feedback. Its cantilever design, pushing the iPad further back like a MacBook’s display, is especially beneficial when used while lying down. This design offers adjustable viewing angles, allowing you to find the perfect position for any task. Whether typing an email, editing a document, or drawing with the Apple Pencil, the iPad adapts seamlessly to your needs.

The Apple Pencil Pro also deserves mention for its ergonomic design. The lightweight stylus mimics the sensation of writing on paper, with added haptic feedback and barrel roll gestures for enhanced precision and control. Whether sketching, annotating, or taking notes, the Apple Pencil Pro provides a comfortable and intuitive user experience.

Using the iPad Pro M4 with the Magic Keyboard feels empowering, enhancing productivity, creativity, entertainment, and learning, no matter where you are. Apple’s attention to ergonomics ensures every interaction with the device is intuitive and comfortable. The thin and lightweight design makes it easy to carry, whether commuting, traveling, or moving between rooms, fitting comfortably in a bag or backpack. The iPad seamlessly supports daily activities, enriching digital experiences, whether working, creating, or browsing. After all, that’s the whole point of investing in tech—not just for the sake of buying a shiny new toy, but to add real value and enhance everyday productivity.

Performance

The iPad Pro M4 has a powerful M4 chip designed to handle everything Apple and third-party apps can throw at it. Whether editing 4K videos, playing graphics-intensive games, or multitasking, the M4 chip ensures smooth and efficient performance. The new chip delivers a 50% performance boost over its predecessor, making it one of the fastest tablets on the market.

Benchmarks like those from Geekbench 6 highlight the iPad Pro M4’s significant performance capabilities. For instance, the iPad Pro M4 (iPad16,6) scores an impressive 13670 in multi-core performance and 3684 in single-core performance, compared to 13159 and 3632, respectively, for the iPad16,4 base model. These results underscore the enhanced performance of the additional cores and more RAM in the iPad Pro M4.

However, synthetic benchmarks are just one way to validate the M4 chip’s capabilities. The true power of the iPad Pro M4 lies in Apple’s seamless integration of hardware and software. Unlike competitors who rely on third parties like Qualcomm for chipsets, various manufacturers for hardware, and Google or Microsoft for the operating system, Apple controls the entire ecosystem. This unified approach allows for optimized performance and a cohesive user experience greater than the sum of its parts.

Apple M4 and Snapdragon X Elite

One of the standout features of the M4 chip is its enhanced Neural Engine, capable of performing 38 trillion operations per second. This opens up new possibilities for AI-driven applications, from real-time language translation to advanced image processing. For instance, apps that utilize machine learning for tasks like photo editing, predictive text, and augmented reality run seamlessly on the iPad Pro M4, demonstrating the chip’s capability to manage complex algorithms efficiently.

The M4 chip’s efficiency also translates into impressive battery life. The iPad Pro M4 can last up to 14 hours under moderate use, such as browsing the web, streaming videos, and using productivity apps. This ensures users can work, play, and create without constantly searching for a power outlet. Even during more intensive tasks like video editing and gaming, the battery life holds up well, typically lasting around 10 hours.

One of the most striking features of the iPad Pro M4 is its Ultra Retina XDR display with tandem OLED technology. This display sets a new benchmark for tablet screens, offering unparalleled brightness, color accuracy, and contrast. Using tandem OLED panels increases luminance levels, resulting in deep blacks, vibrant colors, and exceptional clarity. The display transforms the visual experience, making everything from movies to professional-grade design work look stunning.

From personal experience, the display performs amazingly regardless of the environment. The screen remains vibrant and clear, whether outdoors in bright sunlight or indoors under office lights. Two types of displays are available: the standard display and the nano-texture glass option designed to reduce glare. Our review unit features a regular display, which, for most users, is more than enough to meet their needs.

In video editing tests using apps like LumaFusion and Adobe Premiere Rush, the iPad Pro M4 handles 4K footage effortlessly. Scrubbing through high-resolution video happens without lag, allowing for the application of complex edits and quick rendering of projects. This performance makes it an excellent tool for content creators needing a portable yet powerful device for on-the-go editing.

Gaming performance on the iPad Pro M4 is equally impressive. Popular titles like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty: Mobile run smoothly with high frame rates and detailed graphics, providing a console-like experience on a tablet. The high-refresh-rate display enhances the gaming experience by reducing motion blur and providing a more responsive feel.

We anticipate further enhancements with the upcoming WWDC, where Apple is expected to announce upgrades to iPadOS. We hope these updates will bring many features from macOS to the iPad while retaining its lightweight footprint. Such improvements would further unlock the potential of the M4 chip, making the iPad Pro M4 even more capable. The chip’s current performance already sets a high standard, and with the expected software enhancements, the iPad Pro M4 is poised to become an even more integrated and versatile tool.

In every aspect, from gaming to professional-grade video editing, the iPad Pro M4 redefines what a tablet can achieve, making it a powerful, versatile, and future-ready device.

Sustainability

Apple continues to lead in sustainability with the iPad Pro M4, using 100% recycled aluminum for the enclosure. This commitment to eco-friendly materials doesn’t compromise the device’s durability or aesthetic appeal. Using recycled aluminum reduces the environmental impact of production and aligns with Apple’s broader goals of reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainability.

The energy-efficient M4 chip also contributes to reduced power consumption, extending battery life and minimizing environmental impact. The chip’s efficiency ensures that the iPad Pro M4 delivers top-tier performance while consuming less power, which benefits both users and the planet. By incorporating sustainable practices into the design and production of the iPad Pro M4, Apple sets a high standard for the tech industry, demonstrating that cutting-edge technology and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

Apple’s approach to packaging also reflects its commitment to sustainability. The packaging for the iPad Pro M4 is made from recycled and biodegradable materials, reducing waste and promoting recycling. The minimalist design of the packaging also reduces the overall environmental impact, as less material is used in its production.

In addition to using recycled materials and energy-efficient components, Apple also supports recycling old devices. Through its trade-in program, users can return their old iPads and other Apple products, which are then refurbished or recycled. This program helps to reduce electronic waste and ensures that valuable materials are recovered and reused.

Apple’s commitment to sustainability with the iPad Pro M4 sets a benchmark for the industry. Using recycled materials, energy-efficient components, and eco-friendly packaging contributes to a more sustainable product. By prioritizing sustainability without compromising performance or aesthetics, Apple shows that it is possible to create high-quality, cutting-edge technology while being mindful of the environment.

Value and Verdict

The iPad Pro M4 is undeniably a premium device, and its price reflects this. Starting at $1,299 for the 11-inch model and $1,499 for the 13-inch model, it’s a significant investment. Adding essential accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro can quickly bring the total cost to the level of a high-end laptop. However, for creative professionals and tech enthusiasts who can fully leverage its capabilities, the iPad Pro M4 offers tremendous value. Its performance, display quality, and versatility justify the high price for those who demand the best.

For everyday users, it might be overkill. The advanced features and high performance may not be necessary for tasks like web browsing, email, and casual media consumption. More affordable options like the iPad Air offer excellent performance and functionality at a fraction of the cost. If top-tier features aren’t a priority, these alternatives are worth considering.

The iPad Pro M4 is a versatile tool for a wide range of tasks. For creative professionals, the combination of the M4 chip’s power, the precision of the Apple Pencil Pro, and the clarity of the Ultra Retina XDR display makes it invaluable for photo editing, graphic design, and video production. Its performance and versatility can significantly enhance productivity and creativity.

For business users, the iPad’s portability, battery life, and connectivity options make it an excellent tool for remote work, presentations, and note-taking. The Magic Keyboard transforms the iPad into a functional laptop alternative, while the Apple Pencil Pro offers a natural and efficient way to annotate documents and take notes.

Since using the iPad Pro M4 and the new Magic Keyboard, I’ve typed dozens of articles totaling more than 25,000 words. Unlike past models, this device has become my daily driver. My MacBook Pro M1 stays in the office, connected to four 5k monitors, while I work comfortably wherever I choose. It’s a great time to be a journalist, photographer, videographer, designer, or whatever role you embrace. The new iPad Pro M4 handles any task with ease.

The value of the iPad Pro M4 depends on your specific needs and how you plan to use the device. This is a dream device for those who can take full advantage of its capabilities. It’s perfect for creative professionals, tech enthusiasts, and anyone who wants the best in mobile technology. For others, more affordable models might offer better value without compromising too much on performance.

The iPad Pro M4 is a modern tech marvel, combining excellent hardware and stunning design. Its sleek, lightweight build, striking display, and robust performance make it top-tier among tablets. Enhanced accessories and connectivity options further add to its versatility, making it useful for a broad range of users. However, a common perception is that iPadOS is too restrictive, which prevents the iPad Pro M4 from being fully acknowledged as a viable laptop substitute. While I don’t entirely agree with this, I would appreciate the customization offered by macOS, such as the ability to run at native resolution and full control over the desktop view, among other things.

Ultimately, the iPad Pro M4 is a glimpse into the future of personal technology. It’s a device that meets today’s needs while anticipating tomorrow’s possibilities. Whether working, creating, or enjoying your favorite content, the iPad Pro M4 will take you there.

The post Apple iPad Pro M4 Review: Next-Level Design and Performance first appeared on Yanko Design.

E Ink devices are transforming into more than just simple eBook readers. Some are even really just Android tablets in disguise, promising a more eye-friendly experience not just when reading books but also when surfing the Web, typing documents, or even scrolling through social media. These devices might feel like powerful e-readers, but they are a bit less impressive as Android devices exactly because of their most important feature: the slow E Ink screen. Out of nowhere, a new device has popped up promising a performance that’s almost on par with a modern Android tablet but with the same benefits of an E Ink screen, a promise that not only sounds too good to be true but will also cost you if you do decide to make the gamble.

Designer: Daylight Computer

What makes E Ink screens more eye-friendly is the fact that they traditionally don’t blast your eyes with light, especially blue light that’s been associated not only with eye strain but also with skewed sleep patterns. Unfortunately, even the fastest E Ink display is exponentially slower than even the slowest LCD screen, which makes it less comfortable to use for anything that involves constantly changing content, including typing quickly on the screen.

Daylight DC-1 is a new kind of tablet that tries to bridge those two worlds using a new “Live Paper” display that could be a special version of Sharp’s IGZO LCD screen. Unlike your typical display, it only shows shades of black and gray, but that’s not exactly what’s special about it. The claim is that, like ePaper screens, it doesn’t emit blue light, it can be viewed under direct sunlight, and is easy on the eyes. In the dark, it can use an amber-colored backlight that is still less straining than regular white light. Unlike ePaper screens, however, it can support a refresh rate of 60Hz, which is what most Android tablets can do at the bare minimum. Technically, it can go up to 120Hz, but that still depends on software support.

That software is a custom version of Android, so this device should be able to run any Android app, though there’s no word on whether it supports Google Play Store. the Daylight DC-1 definitely makes big promises, which is basically a watered-down, eye-friendly Android tablet experience. It can do almost anything, whether that’s typing a novel or scribbling notes with the included Wacom-powered pen. It really bridges the gap between regular Android tablets and this new breed of Android-powered E Ink readers.

There is, of course, a catch, and it’s a pretty big one. The device costs $729, and that’s only a pre-order for a device that’s still scheduled to ship later this year. That’s a pretty steep price coming from a brand that popped up almost out of nowhere. The theory does sound, well, sound, and the promises are definitely tempting, but these are very high stakes for a device that has yet to actually prove that theory out in the wild.

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Rumors surrounding Apple’s potential foldable device, the Apple foldable Macbook, have stirred considerable excitement and speculation. The concept of a folding device, similar to a MacBook or an iPad with a foldable mid-section, promises to change the way we interact with technology. However, as details emerge, several questions and considerations arise.

Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo recently reported that Apple is preparing its supply chain for the production of a foldable device, possibly set for mass production as early as Q4 2025, with assembly in the first half of 2026. LG Display is the exclusive panel provider, with Apple considering 20.25-inch and 18.8-inch display options. When folded, these would correspond to the physical sizes of a 14-15 inch and 13-14 inch MacBook, respectively. The devices are expected to feature Apple’s M5 series chips and a high-specification design to ensure a crease-free display, which significantly increases production costs.

While the idea of a new form factor from Apple is thrilling, it brings several questions. One major concern is the typing experience. Will everything be typed directly on the display, and if so, will it incorporate localized haptics similar to those on the iPhone? This raises questions about the necessity of additional accessories, such as a physical keyboard, to enhance usability.

Moreover, most of us are just now accustomed to the near-perfect Magic Keyboard for the iPad Pro M4, and the introduction of a new foldable device could disrupt this familiarity, right? The foldable could essentially be an iPad with a larger screen that folds, but does this mean we are ready to transition to another device so soon? The potential benefits of the Apple Fold are immense, yet it necessitates careful consideration of user experience and practical application.

Although it is being referred to as the foldable MacBook, it’s worth noting that this might not be the final name. I speculate that Apple may “fold” this new product under the iPad line and call it the iPad Fold. This strategic move could create a new product line distinct from the MacBook, aligning more closely with the iPad’s existing user base and functionality.

The development of the Apple Fold isn’t happening in isolation. Apple is also reportedly working on foldable iPhones and iPads, indicating a broader strategy towards foldable technology. The challenges Apple faces include ensuring a seamless, crease-free display, a feat that companies like Samsung, HONOR, XIAOMI, and others are still striving to perfect.

As Apple ventures into the foldable space, it’s crucial to balance innovation with practicality. The anticipation for an Apple Fold, whether under the iPad or a new product line, is high, but so are the expectations. As always, Apple’s approach will likely focus on perfecting the user experience, even if it means navigating a complex landscape of new technology and user adaptation.

The post Apple Foldables Are Coming, But Do We Need Them? first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple is set to revolutionize accessibility with a suite of new features coming later this year. These enhancements include Eye Tracking for iPad and iPhone, allowing users with physical disabilities to navigate their devices with just their eyes. Music Haptics will enable deaf or hard-of-hearing users to experience music through refined vibrations from the iPhone’s Taptic Engine. Vocal Shortcuts introduce custom sounds for task automation, while Listen for Atypical Speech enhances speech recognition for users with speech-related conditions. Vehicle Motion Cues aim to reduce motion sickness by using animated dots to minimize sensory conflicts for passengers in moving vehicles. CarPlay will see updates such as Voice Control, Color Filters, and Sound Recognition to improve accessibility. Additionally, visionOS will introduce systemwide Live Captions, support for hearing devices, and features for low vision users, furthering Apple’s commitment to inclusive design.

Designer: Apple

Eye Tracking uses the front-facing camera and on-device machine learning to enable users to control their devices with their eyes. It’s designed for people with physical disabilities, offering an easy and intuitive way to navigate without extra hardware. After a quick setup and calibration using the front-facing camera, users can move through apps by looking at elements. This interaction can trigger actions like pressing buttons, swiping, and performing other gestures. All data is processed and stored on the device, ensuring user privacy. This feature adapts to individual patterns through machine learning, providing a powerful tool for users with physical disabilities to navigate their devices easily.

Music Haptics provides a new way for deaf or hard-of-hearing users to experience music through vibrations. Using the Taptic Engine, the iPhone creates tactile feedback that syncs with the music’s rhythm, melody, and intensity. This tactile feedback allows users to feel the music, making it more accessible and enjoyable. Music Haptics works across millions of songs in the Apple Music catalog and is available as an API for developers to integrate into their apps, further expanding its accessibility. The feature is designed to be easy to use, with simple settings to turn it on and off.

Vehicle Motion Cues help reduce motion sickness by displaying animated dots at the screen’s edges, aligning visual input with the vehicle’s motion. This feature addresses the sensory conflict that often causes motion sickness, where what a person sees doesn’t match what they feel. Using built-in sensors, this feature detects when a user is in a moving vehicle and activates automatically or can be toggled in the Control Center. By providing a visual representation of vehicle motion, Vehicle Motion Cues make it easier for users to read, watch, or interact with content on their devices without experiencing discomfort.

CarPlay will also see significant improvements, enhancing accessibility for users with various needs. Voice Control will allow users to navigate and control CarPlay apps using their voice, providing a hands-free experience. Color Filters will make the interface more accessible for colorblind users by adjusting the display to distinguish between different colors. Sound Recognition will notify users of important sounds like car horns and sirens, ensuring that drivers and passengers who are deaf or hard of hearing remain aware of their surroundings.

visionOS will introduce systemwide Live Captions, further supporting users who are deaf or hard of hearing by providing real-time captions for spoken dialogue in live conversations and audio from apps. The update will also expand support for Made for iPhone hearing devices and cochlear hearing processors, ensuring seamless integration with Apple Vision Pro. For users with low vision, new features such as Reduce Transparency, Smart Invert, and Dim Flashing Lights will make the interface more comfortable and easier to navigate.

These advancements highlight Apple’s dedication to inclusive design, pushing technology’s boundaries to create the best experience for all users. To celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day, Apple will host curated collections and sessions at select Apple Store locations, allowing users to explore and learn about these new accessibility features. By constantly innovating and improving accessibility, Apple ensures its devices remain accessible to everyone, empowering all users to enjoy and benefit from the latest technological advancements.

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As expected, the Internet is abuzz over the new M4 iPad Pro’s ultra-thin design, but there are also reasonable concerns over the device’s durability and longevity because of that design as well. Fortunately, a bend test proved that the tablet has enough resistance to withstand accidents within reason, but accidents will still happen regardless. Displays will get cracked and batteries degrade and, sooner or later, the new iPad Pro will become old and will need to be repaired. When that time comes, how easy and expensive will it be to open up the thinnest iPad in the world and replace those broken parts? It turns out, that Apple made one very important step toward improving the device’s repairability, at least for one of the most common types of repairs.

Designer: Apple (via iFixit)

Whether it’s a smartphone or a tablet, mobile devices have two or three parts that easily get damaged or need to be replaced. Screens crack or shatter after accidental falls, charging ports get damaged or blocked, and batteries start to lose their charge faster or, worse, start to bloat. For the iPad Pro, getting to any of these parts has always been a chore and a risk, but the M4 iPad Pro has surprisingly made it easier to remove and replace the battery without removing as many important parts.

Opening up the iPad Pro is still an exercise in patience and dexterity, perhaps even more so now with a new Tandem OLED display. A closer look at that screen reveals not the dual-layered panels that Apple used to explain the technology, but, for all intents and purposes, it practically functions the same way. Long story short, there’s a high chance that the screen will be damaged beyond repair when you try to open the iPad Pro just to replace the battery.

Fortunately, the battery itself is easy to reach, as it is immediately exposed after removing the display. There are a few parts that need to be unscrewed to gain access to the pull tabs, but there’s no need to remove daughterboards, logic boards, or even speakers. Considering this is Apple we’re talking about, that’s a rather ground-breaking change and a step in the right direction.

Unfortunately, Apple’s “size zero” design does also come with its drawbacks, like many of the parts now glued down rather than screwed down, just because there’s virtually no space left for screws. And then there’s the new Apple Pencil Pro that’s still an expensive disposable accessory as far as repairability is concerned. All in all, the M4 iPad Pro represents a significant step forward for Apple when it comes to making the tablet a more sustainable option on top of being one of the best of its kind.

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There is an almost irrational desire to have the lightest and the thinnest mobile devices. After all, we don’t want to carry the literal weight of just products if we can help it, and thin devices also look sleeker, take up less space in your bag, and, at least in theory, use less material during production. That thinness, however, doesn’t come without a price, at least in terms of durability. Thin sheets of wood break more easily (karate, anyone?) and it’s also easier to bend thin metal than thicker ones. That may be the concern some people will have about the new M4 iPad Pro, especially the larger 13-inch model, but a rather excruciating stress test fortunately proves that isn’t the case, with one important caveat.

Designer: Apple (via JerryRigEverything)

You might no longer hear about it, but there were times when Apple’s quest for thin designs backfired catastrophically. Its first large iPhones, the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, were notoriously susceptible to bending when placed in back pockets that the term “bendgate” was coined in 2014. The first iPad Pro, though less dramatic, was also proven to be less than reliable if put under extreme pressure. Fortunately, those seem to be well in the past and Apple has figured out a new design to help prevent that sort of structural failure in its thinnest iPad yet.

JerryRigEverything, the YouTuber whose claim to fame has been the unrelenting bend, scratch, and burn tests on phones and tablets proved that new solution to some extent. Apple apparently added a “cowling” or a spine inside the thin tablet that runs across its height, covering the new M4 chip in the center and splitting the two large battery packs. Thanks to this new structural support, bending the tablet across its long edge no longer breaks it in half. It does deform in a way that won’t return to its flat state but it at least remains usable.

The catch, however, is that bending it in the opposite direction does actually destroy the iPad Pro. The flaw unsurprisingly lies in the thinnest part of the frame, the area around the USB-C port. With enough pressure, this bends sharply and pushes into the screen, cracking it and rendering it completely unusable. To be fair, the chances of that happening inside your backpack are extremely rare, but its existence should give owners caution. That said, most M4 iPad Pro owners will probably keep their ultra-thin tablets inside the new keyboard case when in transit anyway.

The stress test of the 2024 13-inch iPad Pro also shows some of the gems of this new design, like that aforementioned spine that was revealed after the shattered screen was peeled off. The YouTuber also provided a close-up of the Tandem OLED screen but, unfortunately, can’t show the second layer of OLED pixels underneath. All in all, the design of the M4 iPad Pro, both in terms of technology as well as product design, is quite impressive, but that isn’t an excuse not to take proper care of the device. Be sure to check out our hands-on of the new iPad Pro and keep a look out for our in-depth review coming soon!

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If I could review a tablet with one word, I’d pick the iPad Pro, and the word I’d use is perfect. You’d probably demand an explanation, right? Apple has achieved design perfection with the iPad Pro, both inside and out, as well as with the redesigned Magic Keyboard. Now, before you start asking, “What about iPadOS? It’s nowhere near perfect,” let me clarify: I’m specifically talking about the hardware here. We’ll have to wait until WWDC 2024 in June to see what Apple has in store for the operating system.

Over thirty-odd years ago, I enjoyed reading philosophy in my spare time, and one of my favorite philosophers is Plato. Okay, you caught me—rarely does anyone read Plato just for fun. But it’s true that Plato’s “perfect object theory” inspired me in my quest as a tech and automotive journalist to find the perfect [fill in the blank]. My search didn’t initially start with the iPad; I was hoping for a “MacBook touch.” I even bought the domain name MacBooktouch.com back in 2007 as proof that I foresaw Apple making a touch-screen MacBook.

macbooktouch.com domain name

Fast-forward to 2015, when we got the iPad Pro with a 12.9-inch display and the first Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard. That hardware wasn’t close to a MacBook Touch. Nine years later, or 17 years since I registered macbooktouch.com, we finally have the closest thing to a MacBook touch.

The MacBook touch—er, 2024 iPad Pro—is powered by the M4 chip. In case you don’t know, it’s the only device with this new processor. The only things keeping this device from being a MacBook touch are 1) the iPad branding and 2) it’s not running macOS. Is it capable of running macOS? Absolutely. So, why isn’t it? I’ll leave that for you to ponder.

Before I move on, I won’t be revisiting whether you should upgrade to this year’s iPad Pro. If you’re asking if you should, read my analysis here. Okay, let’s dig in, and if anything I say in this article sounds familiar, you’re right—you’ve probably heard it from tech YouTubers or read it in reviews over the past week. Just think of what I’m sharing as confirmation.

The iPad Pro is lightweight, thin, and sexy as hell. It exudes minimalist charm, practically begging, “Pick me up and use me right now!” The Magic Keyboard is what makes this iPad Pro a true MacBook replacement. It’s the key to unlocking the full potential of the iPad Pro, providing a MacBook Pro-like experience with a responsive trackpad, comfortable keys with the right amount of travel, and premium build quality.

Comically, early reviewers seemed genuinely surprised that Apple managed to thin out the iPad Pro even more. One famous YouTuber even asked, “Who was asking for it?” Well, my friends, that “who” was yours truly. Apple delivered on almost everything I asked for, except for titanium—and yes, that was wishful thinking. I’m happily settling for aluminum for both the iPad and Magic Keyboard. I’m also thrilled that both devices have shed some weight, making the iPad, especially the 13-inch model, much more manageable to hold and use over longer periods. The 11-inch model is now just 5.3mm thick and weighs 444 grams, while the 13-inch model is 5.1mm thick and weighs 580 grams.

Briefly touching on the Magic Keyboard, I’ll save the full details for the review, but Apple addressed my issue where the lower portion of the iPad Pro would constantly get in the way of my typing. Thanks to a whole new redesigned hinge system, it’s possible to have a full-size keyboard with an entire row of function keys. For those developers out there yearning for an ESC key, you have it now. The way Apple designed the placement of the iPad, which is now pushed further back yet still articulates at the same or greater angles than the outgoing model, reminds me of how car designers suddenly got so much more room to play with when designing electric vehicles sans the motor. The wheels are pushed further to the edges, creating more internal room for leg space and whatever else they can dream up. I’m sure the new hinges were no small task, but wow—a full keyboard with a function row and a larger trackpad, a proper MacBook Pro-style trackpad with a haptic engine built in.

At the end of the day, I really don’t care what the iPad’s called; what matters most to me is what I’m able to do with it in real life. Whether consuming content or playing games (which I rarely do, but hey, I might start) without a bulky keyboard, or getting down to business and writing, like I am doing right now with this article and many others to come, I know this is the ultimate, ultra-portable device that ticks all my needs now and possibly over the next decade.

I’ve left out a lot in this initial impressions article, such as display quality, performance, battery life, the Apple Pencil Pro, and other features. I also haven’t compared it to my existing 12.9-inch iPad Pro with the M1 chip. But rest assured, I’ll cover all these aspects in my full review. I just need more time to test everything thoroughly.

The post iPad Pro M4 hands-on first impressions: Lightweight, Thin, and Sexy first appeared on Yanko Design.

Despite the power that smartphones and tablets have these days, PCs and their Mac equivalents remain the workhorses of the modern world. Not only do they have more power, they also offer more flexibility thanks to decades of research, development, and innovation. Market analysts, however, have long been pointing to the demise of the PC market, especially desktops, and there has indeed been a great deal of stagnation not only in hardware but even in product designs. It’s not that there haven’t been any improvements, just that designs have become predictable and even sometimes forgettable. You can’t, after all, change the design formula too much unless you also drastically change the internals as well. That’s the kind of burst in innovation that awaits the PC market, both laptops and even desktops, if running Windows on the same hardware as smartphones and tablets finally becomes reliable and productive.

Designer: Qualcomm

Rough Start: Microsoft Surface

It’s not like the combination of Windows and ARM-based processors, the same silicon that powers mobile devices, hasn’t been done before, but almost all past attempts have come up short of expectations. Disregarding the antiquated Windows CE and Windows Phone variants, Microsoft has time and again tried to bring the benefits of phones and tablets to PCs without much success. One of the first ones in recent memory is the smaller Microsoft Surface. Although the Surface Pro has become something of an icon today, its base model didn’t enjoy the same level of fame, attention, and sales.

Microsoft Surface RT

Designer: Microsoft

The Surface RT and Surface 2 both ran on ARM-based NVIDIA Tegra processors that were normally quite capable on Android tablets. Even those, however, couldn’t bear the weight of Windows, even the watered-down Windows RT version. To add insult to injury, the apps available for that platform were a dismal number which didn’t include the software that people needed to use on Windows. Thus, these first attempts at Windows on ARM were considered to be abject failures, but surprisingly, Microsoft didn’t give up completely.

Microsoft Surface Pro 9

Fast-forward to today, there have been numerous attempts to improve the situation, both from the hardware and the software side. The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 now has a version that runs an even more powerful ARM Qualcomm processor, and the Microsoft Store has quite a selection of popular apps. There are also some emulation solutions for running “normal” Windows software on ARM laptops and tablets, but that’s not exactly a panacea. All these sound like too much effort for what seems like a niche design, but it’s an effort that could yield a bountiful harvest if it succeeds.

Faster, Slimmer, Cooler

Qualcomm announced last month its new Snapdragon X Plus and Elite processors, and while the “Snapdragon” name is popular for smartphones and tablets, the “X” chips are earmarked for use in Windows computers instead, particularly laptops. Qualcomm boasts numbers that would make the likes of Intel and AMD worry, though it’s also aiming squarely for Apple’s M series processors. That’s definitely a tall order, especially with the launch of the new Apple M4 chip, but if theory proves to be even remotely near the mark, it will be a huge win for the Windows market and PCs in general.

Designer: Qualcomm

The new Snapdragon X Plus and Elite unsurprisingly boast about being able to do heavy-duty generative AI work, something that would require a lot of processing power that is traditionally only available on “regular” laptops and desktops. What would set it apart, however, is how it delivers that performance with lower battery consumption, heat, and space compared to equivalent Intel and AMD processors. It’s too early to say if Qualcomm will be able to deliver those promises, but it’s definitely a big leap compared to previous generations.

ARM-based processors like those from Qualcomm and MediaTek have been used in mobile devices precisely because of these traits. They can keep the product compact without impacting performance, something that laptop makers aim for every year. More importantly, however, these small form factors open the doors to less conventional designs, paving the way for dual-screen, foldable, or rollable PCs that don’t sacrifice their power for the sake of their novel appearance and features.

Thinking Outside the Box

The very first benefit of Windows successfully and smoothly running on ARM devices would be thinner laptops with longer battery lives. It can’t be understated how significant that will be for creatives, especially those who will rely a lot on that generative AI that everyone’s talking about these days. But even if you do much of your designs manually, the idea that you can bring your work anywhere without breaking your back and stay unplugged for more than half a day is going to appeal to a lot of people

Lenovo Yoga Book 9i

Designer: Lenovo

Once that has become the norm, however, it will be time to explore the possibilities that thinner, more compact, or smaller devices can bring. Imagine those handheld gaming PCs becoming thinner and smaller, almost down to tablet or even phone sizes. Admittedly, being able to play just about any PC game is going to be tricky today, but that’s not going to be the case in the future.

And then there are the current novelties like laptops with two screens or foldable displays, designs that have to sacrifice performance for the sake of super thin bodies. It hasn’t arrived yet, but a rollable screen might even become a thing for computers. In other words, Windows on ARM would enable all these forms beyond desktop towers and laptops to become possible without sacrificing too much performance. We seem to be heading in that direction already, but hardware is only half the battle.

Uphill Battle

No matter how powerful ARM chips are, enough to smoothly run Windows, all of that will fall on deaf ears if Windows on ARM isn’t able to support as much as 80% of regular Windows software, including games and especially content creation tools. That was what killed the Surface RT and Surface 2, after all, and things have improved considerably but not yet to most PC users’ satisfaction. One of the available solutions right now is emulation, like making the software or game think it’s running on an Intel/AMD computer, but that incurs penalties in performance.

AYANEO Flip DS

AYANEO Slide

Designer: AYANEO

There are also obstacles to be overcome on the hardware side. As strange as it might sound, PCs are a somewhat open ecosystem when it comes to the variety of things you can plug into a computer and have them working automatically. You lose some of that with Windows on ARM because of compatibility issues, and that might prevent less popular but heavily used peripherals from working, at least not at first. Unfortunately, that might be a huge deal breaker, especially for those who have already invested in devices for their workflow.

Designer: Qualcomm

Final Thoughts

Qualcomm’s announcement of the Snapdragon X Plus and Elite tried to preempt Apple’s new M4 chip and iPad Pros. Apple’s venture into the ARM world is both a boon and a bane for the likes of Qualcomm as it demonstrates what’s possible. But even Apple has remained within the boundaries of traditional devices like a tablet and a laptop. Not surprising for a company that is very meticulous and careful about the design of its products.

Designer: Apple

The Windows world, however, is a bit more daring thanks to the diversity of people involved. Unconventional and sometimes impractical designs pop up once in a while, but they’re all hampered by the limitations of hardware that’s commonly available for PCs. Windows on ARM isn’t new and it still has a long way to go to confidently match what Intel, AMD, and now Apple are selling, but stakeholders in the PC industry should probably consider rallying behind this if they want to breathe new life into the stagnating PC market.

Designer: Samsung

The post Windows on ARM success can drive PC design innovation first appeared on Yanko Design.

Wacom was once an industry leader in the sketching tablet PC market. However, Apple has, over the years, steadily occupied a significant majority portion of the drawing tablet market – and the M4 iPad Pro and Pencil Pro may just give them an even bigger slice of the pie. Announced at the iPad keynote yesterday, the new Pencil Pro packs features so unique, it leaves EMR and capacitive styluses in the rear view mirror. The new Pencil Pro has a new squeeze gesture to activate quick menus, can track rotation to have objects and brushes rotate in real-time (known as barrel roll), and even has a haptic motor for feedback – while still packing features from previous models like the hover feature, pressure and tilt sensitivity, and low-latency.

If all that wasn’t enough, the Pencil Pro even has Find My support, allowing you to locate your stylus if it ever gets lost. The Wacom Pro Pen 3 on the other hand, has buttons.

Styluses have existed for decades at this point, and if you asked anyone ten years back which was the most well-designed stylus and tablet combo for creatives, the answer would invariably be something from Wacom’s lineup. The company had three options back in the day, the budget Wacom Bamboo, the mid-range Wacom Intuos, and the flagship Wacom Cintiq. Now it’s also added the Wacom One and the Movink tablet to the line to battle iPad’s dominance. Even though the Cintiq Pro is still considered Wacom’s most professional-focused device, it seems like the Movink (with its 13.3-inch screen) makes for a better iPad Pro comparison. However, it still needs to be tethered to a desktop or laptop to work. None of Wacom’s aforementioned products are independent tablet devices – they’re, at their core, a mouse replacement. The Movink comes with an OLED screen, and supports the company’s Pro Pen 3 – which offers buttons, has pressure and tilt sensitivity, and runs without batteries.

The Wacom Movink requires an external device to operate

Cut to yesterday when Apple dropped the iPad Pro M4 and the comparison is incredibly stark. For starters, whenever anyone asks me whether they should buy an iPad or a Wacom, the answer is almost always the former… because when you’re not sketching on the Wacom, it’s just another monitor (that needs to stay plugged in), but when you’re not sketching on the iPad, it’s still an iPad that has an app store, a camera, speakers, and the ability to snap on accessories like a keyboard. The difference is compounded with the new iPad Pro being Apple’s thinnest device yet at just 5.1mm thick, while the Movink is a commendable 6.6mm at its thickest part, but doesn’t have a battery on the inside and NEEDS to be plugged into an external device to be used. If you want to make a Pro for Pro comparison, the Wacom Cintiq Pro models (although they aren’t designed for portability), are anywhere between 4-8 times thicker than the M4 iPad Pro.

The 13″ Movink and 13″ iPad Pro

However, a hardware comparison between a trillion-dollar electronics giant and Wacom, that’s valued at just half a billion dollars doesn’t seem fair. What does seem fair, however, is to just look at one singular product to see how far Apple’s outpaced its competition – the humble stylus. Wacom played a critical role in perfecting its EMR stylus technology, which was game-changing a decade or so ago. The pens ran without batteries, could sense pressure and tilt with stunning accuracy, had hover functions, and an eraser on the rear, becoming the creative industry’s go-to for digital sketching. In fact, Wacom even pioneered the Barrel Tilt feature with their Art Pen in 2008, but the Art Pen isn’t available on Wacom’s US website anymore, as the company pushes the Pro Pen 3 as their flagship (which doesn’t have a barrel roll feature). When Apple debuted the Pencil, it had more or less the same features as some of Wacom’s initial styluses except without any buttons. The Pencil 2, on the other hand, got a tap feature that let you swap between brush and eraser, and a unique charging mechanism that allowed you to charge your stylus simply by snapping it to the side of an iPad (it subsequently also got a hover function with newer iPad models). Apple’s newly announced Pencil Pro, which dropped yesterday, however, is quite the upgrade.

The new Pencil Pro has the hover function, lets you squeeze to activate a quick menu, and even supports barrel rolls that allow you to rotate brushes or objects simply by rotating your stylus (with distinct visuals including rolling brush previews and even a shadow of your stylus that rotates with the actual device). In true Apple fashion, it doesn’t have any buttons on it, but you can still tap to alternate between brush and eraser, and you even get the brush preview when your stylus is near the screen, letting you know how your brush is oriented. If all that wasn’t enough, the new Pencil Pro even packs Apple’s Find My feature, letting you locate a lost pencil through your iPad or iPhone.

The Pencil Pro can be squeezed to activate a quick menu

A great stylus on the iPad Pro, which already comes with an industry-leading chip, laptop-grade performance, a brilliant camera setup and LiDAR sensor, and an app store, makes the iPad or Wacom question moot. Wacom’s tablets are mouse-replacements, iPad’s tablets exist independently. In fact, the Wacom Movink tablet (with the Pro Pen 3) starts at $749.95, but for just $250 extra, you get the M4 iPad Pro (albeit without the Pencil Pro stylus). Again, a Pro for Pro comparison between the iPad Pro and Wacom’s Cintiq Pro lineup shows bigger price differences. While the M4 iPad Pro starts at $999, the smallest Cintiq Pro 16″ has a $1599 price tag.

The haptic motor gives you feedback when you squeeze the Pencil Pro

There still is a market for Wacom products. They’re highly preferred by the hardcore animation and visual industries, and are platform-agnostic, which means you can easily run Windows, Android, or Linux programs on them, which most power users will appreciate over being limited to the iPadOS. But for the most part, the iPad Pro and Pencil Pro are so far ahead of their competition at this point, that they’ve made Wacom’s tablets (an already niche creative-focused gadget) even more niche… almost to the point of obscure.

This article has been edited for accuracy.

The post The new Apple Pencil Pro may take even more market share from Wacom’s creative audience first appeared on Yanko Design.

iPad Air M2

The iPad Air, now available in both 11-inch and 13-inch models, caters to a variety of needs and preferences. Whether you’re a student always on the move or a designer needing ample screen space for intricate visuals, there’s an option perfectly sized for you. The 11-inch version excels in portability, easily slipping into a small bag or backpack, making it the go-to device for students who juggle between classes and study sessions across campus. Meanwhile, the 13-inch model, with its expanded display, provides 30 percent more screen real estate, offering designers and students the luxury of a bigger canvas to work on complex projects or manage multiple applications side by side with iPadOS’s multitasking features.

Designer: Apple

The 11-inch iPad Air is super-portable, while the 13-inch model provides an even larger display, giving users more room to work, learn, and play.

Beyond size, the iPad Air boasts a Liquid Retina display with advanced technologies such as True Tone, high brightness, and anti-reflective coating, ensuring everything you see is detailed and vibrant. This is crucial when precision in color and detail plays a significant part in your coursework or professional projects. The support for P3 wide color gamut also means that the visuals are not just bright but incredibly accurate, which is especially important for design students and professionals who rely on true-to-life colors for their digital artistry.

The repositioned front-facing camera is another subtle yet impactful enhancement. Set along the landscape edge, the camera automatically keeps you in frame during video calls, thanks to the Center Stage technology. This feature is particularly beneficial now that remote collaboration has become more prevalent in both educational and professional settings. Whether you’re presenting a thesis to your class or brainstorming with colleagues over a video call, the camera adapts dynamically to ensure you are always seen, complemented by dual microphones that focus on your voice while minimizing background noise.

Moved to landscape edge, 12MP Ultra Wide front-facing camera with Center Stage improves call experience.

Performance-wise, the M2 chip in the iPad Air is a big leap forward, bringing not only speed but also efficiency to every task. This chip is tailored for advanced tasks such as photo and video editing, 3D modeling, and large-scale graphic designs, all while maintaining energy efficiency for all-day battery life. This means less time tied to a power outlet and more flexibility to work in settings that inspire you, be it a quiet corner of a library or lounging at your favorite cafe.

Moreover, the iPad Air now supports not only the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) but also the newly introduced Apple Pencil Pro, enhancing its utility for both students and designers. The Apple Pencil Pro includes a new sensor in its barrel that can detect squeezes, enabling users to quickly switch between tools, line weights, and colors effortlessly—ideal for designers working in applications such as Affinity Designer 2. Additionally, its custom haptic feedback provides tactile responses to actions like squeezing or double-tapping, enhancing the user’s interaction by confirming their inputs in a way that feels intuitive and direct. The inclusion of a gyroscope allows for fine control over tool orientation, mimicking the real-world experience of rotating a pen to achieve the desired stroke or effect.

Apple Pencil Pro enhances creativity with squeeze, barrel roll, and haptic feedback for intuitive marking, note-taking, and design in apps like Affinity Designer 2.

For those who are prone to misplacing their tools, the Apple Pencil Pro introduces support for Apple’s Find My network, a first for Apple’s stylus line. Both the Apple Pencil Pro and the Apple Pencil (2nd generation) attach magnetically to the side of the iPad Air, where they also charge, ensuring they are always ready for use and conveniently stored. This versatility makes the iPad Air an even more attractive option for anyone looking to maximize their productivity and creative output, whether they are annotating documents, taking detailed notes, sketching out a design, or navigating through complex creative software.

Connectivity is also an important feature of the iPad Air’s appeal. With the introduction of Wi-Fi 6E and the option for 5G connectivity, the device ensures that you can work from anywhere without lag or interruption. This is particularly valuable for students who need to download large resources quickly or for designers who must upload high-resolution files to cloud-based platforms.

Magic Keyboard: Floating cantilever design, magnetic attachment, multiple viewing angles, integrated trackpad, USB-C pass-through charging, and full iPad protection.

Traveling with tech can sometimes feel like a balancing act between staying productive and managing your gear effectively, especially for someone like myself who’s always on the move. One of the standout features of the iPad Air, from my perspective, is its versatility—particularly the ability to detach it from the Magic Keyboard. This becomes incredibly handy during air travel. Picture this: you’re on a flight, deeply absorbed in your latest design project or perhaps the climax of your favorite Netflix series. Just as the airplane prepares for takeoff, the usual announcement comes over the PA: “Please stow your laptops.” However, thanks to the iPad Air’s detachable setup, you can continue your work or entertainment seamlessly by simply detaching the iPad from its keyboard. It’s moments like these where the iPad Air proves its worth, allowing you to maintain your creative or entertainment zone without a hitch.

In terms of the operating system, I appreciate the straightforward and efficient design of iPadOS 17. It simplifies daily tasks and enhances user interaction, making everything from navigation to app management feel more fluid. The customization options in iPadOS 17 are particularly notable; they allow you to tailor the Lock Screen on both the 11-inch and new 13-inch displays. This personalization capability lets you set unique wallpapers and choose expressive fonts that truly reflect your personal style.

As WWDC 2024 approaches, while iPadOS 17 certainly gets the job done, I’m eager to see what iPadOS 18 will bring to the iPad. Anticipating new features and enhancements that could further refine and expand the functionality of this already versatile device adds an exciting layer of potential for iPad users looking forward to the next evolution in their device’s capabilities.

Interactive widgets on iPadOS 17 are also great for productivity. Imagine being able to glance at your screen and tap a widget to immediately capture a brilliant idea in the Notes app or adjust your schedule in Calendar. This kind of immediate interaction is perfect for someone who needs to stay flexible and react quickly to changes, which is often the case in both travel and creative professions.

iPad Air with M2 uses AI for features like Subject Lift, Visual Look Up, and Live Text.

The enhancements to Messages and FaceTime add a layer of fun and convenience. With new sticker features and the ability to leave video messages, staying connected feels more personal and engaging. For professionals, the Continuity Camera feature is particularly impressive. You can start a video call on your iPad Air and seamlessly hand it off to Apple TV, making it perfect for professional presentations or casual catch-ups.

Freeform’s new tools for drawing and collaboration are a boon for creatives. Whether you’re sketching out a quick concept or organizing a project with teammates, these tools make it easy to bring your ideas to life. And for someone who frequently deals with contracts or creative briefs, the enhanced PDF capabilities in the Notes app can be incredibly efficient, allowing you to annotate, fill out forms, and collaborate without ever needing to print or scan anything.

Lastly, the inclusion of features like Stage Manager, which lets you handle multiple overlapping windows, is ideal for multitasking. This feature, combined with AI-driven capabilities like Live Captions and intelligent accessibility features, ensures that the iPad Air isn’t just keeping up with the demands of mobile professionals and creatives—it’s anticipating them.

Every Apple product I’ve used, from my M1 MacBook Pro to an iPhone 12 Pro Max or a three-year-old iPad Pro with an M1 chip, continues to hold immense value. Remarkably, there has been very little performance degradation, and none feels obsolete. This changelessness is largely thanks to Apple’s timeless design concepts, which are consistently implemented across the product line.

Moreover, the new iPad Air reflects Apple’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility. It is crafted with 100% recycled aluminum for its enclosure, utilizes 100% recycled rare earth elements in all magnets, and features 100% recycled gold plating and tin soldering in multiple printed circuit boards. These efforts are complemented by packaging that is entirely fiber-based, aligning with Apple’s goal to eliminate plastic from all packaging by 2025. As part of a broader commitment, Apple aims to be carbon neutral across its entire manufacturing supply chain and the life cycle of every product by 2030. These steps not only reflect Apple’s dedication to reducing its environmental footprint but also enhance the appeal of the iPad Air to environmentally conscious consumers.

Whether you’re considering an upgrade or this might be your first Apple product, you can trust that in the next year, or even the year after, you won’t feel the need to upgrade unless you choose to. Apple’s commitment to quality, forward-thinking design, and environmental sustainability ensures that its products not only meet current demands but continue to remain relevant and perform excellently well into the future.

The post Why the M2 iPad Air Is Ideal for Students, Designers, and Everyone In Between first appeared on Yanko Design.