Along with the MacBook Pro 14 powered by Apple’s latest and powerful M5 chip, the company also announced a new iPad Pro and Vision Pro models running on its latest processor.
The new chip comes with the next-generation Apple GPU with “a Neural Accelerator in each core”, which delivers a boost in performance for iPad Pro users. Powering Apple Intelligence, it delivers up to 3.5 times the AI (artificial intelligence) performance than the M4 powered iPad Pro, and up to 5.6 times faster performance that the original M1-powered iPad Pro.
Available on both the 11 and 13-inch iPad Pro models, prices start from S$1,499 for the 11-inch Wi-Fi model, and S$1,799 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. Prices for the 13-inch iPad Pro starts at S$1,999 for the Wi-Fi model, and S$2,299 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular model. Pre-orders have started, with availability beginning on Wednesday, 22 October for the 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB storage devices.
While all are powered by M5, there are different versions of the chip. The 256GB or 512GB storage ones come with a 9-core CPU, with 3 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores, and a 10-core GPU, while the larger storage on the 1TB or 2TB storage options come with a 10-core CPU, with 4 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores, and a 10-core GPU.
The 10-core GPU promises next-level graphics performance, for both visual design work and gaming. The M5 chip incorporates a third-generation ray-tracing engine that produces sharper, more realistic lighting, reflections, and shadows, which are key to visually intensive software applications and for gaming on the move. The new iPad Pro provides up to 1.5 times faster 3D rendering with ray tracing compared to the previous model, and an incredible 6.7 times faster rendering performance compared to the original M1-powered iPad Pro.
The M5 chip also offers over 150GB/s of unified memory bandwidth, marking a close to 30 per cent increase compared to the previous iPad Pro, aiding users with faster AI processing models and more intensive multitasking features across more apps.
Cellular models can also benefit from the Apple designed C1X cellular modem that promises up to 50 per cent faster cellular data performance, with a corresponding 30 per cent lower power consumption than the iPad Pro with M4.
And contrary to rumours that Apple has halted production of its Apple Vision Pro mixed-reality headset, the company set the record straight with a Vision Pro headset upgraded with an M5 chip, compared to the M2 that powers the original release. It’s also offering a new Dual Knit Band with a single-piece upper and lower 3D-knitted straps that provides better cushioning, which the company says will offer an even more comfortable fit.
The jump to M5 powers the Vision Pro with an advanced 10-core CPU capable of delivering boosted multithreaded performance and faster system-wide experiences such as smoother web browsing, and quicker app and widget load times. Meanwhile, the 10-core GPU brings hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading, allowing developers to introduce enhanced lighting, shadows, and reflections with stunning realism.
Along with a faster chip also comes improved battery performance, with the Apple Vision Pro now supporting up to 2.5 hours of general use, and up to 3 hours of video playback on a single charge, compared to 2 and 2.5 hours respectively before.
Since its release in February 2024, there are now 1 million apps available for the device, including more than 3,000 built for the device’s visionOS software. The price for the Apple Vision Pro with the M5 chip and Dual Knit Band starts at S$4,999, which is lower than the original launch price, which started from S$5,299. It is available with 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage models and pre-orders for Singapore start on Friday, 17 October.
Hsals needs more space in his house, and more money in his bank account to pay for all the toys, collectibles and other geek related items that companies are churning out. Free-time? Girlfriend? Who’s got time for those?
Kevin Low
