The iPad Pro 12.9-inch is Apple’s powerhouse tablet, designed for professionals and creatives who demand top-tier performance and a large, immersive display. Since its introduction in 2015, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro has undergone several iterations, each bringing significant improvements in processing power, display technology, and overall functionality. Understanding the different generations and their key features is crucial for anyone looking to purchase a used iPad Pro 12.9 or simply stay informed about Apple’s evolving tablet lineup. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each generation, highlighting their specifications and unique characteristics.
A Deep Dive into the iPad Pro 12.9-inch Generations
Apple has released several generations of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch, each distinguished by its processor, display technology, design, and connectivity options. Keeping track of these differences is essential for making informed decisions. The 12.9-inch iPad Pro has consistently pushed the boundaries of tablet technology, making it a favorite among artists, designers, and other professionals.
The First Generation (2015): A Bold Beginning
The original iPad Pro 12.9-inch, released in November 2015, marked Apple’s entry into the larger tablet market. It featured a 12.9-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels, delivering stunning visuals and ample screen real estate for multitasking and creative work. This first generation was powered by the A9X chip, which provided a significant performance boost compared to previous iPad models.
The first-generation iPad Pro 12.9 also introduced the Smart Connector, allowing users to attach a Smart Keyboard for a more traditional typing experience. It supported the first-generation Apple Pencil, enabling precise drawing and sketching. The device was available in silver, gold, and space gray finishes and offered storage options of 32GB, 128GB, and later, 256GB. The initial release had storage constraints that were improved in subsequent updates.
The Second Generation (2017): Enhanced Performance and Display
Apple launched the second-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch in June 2017. This model boasted several improvements over its predecessor, most notably a brighter display with ProMotion technology. ProMotion dynamically adjusted the display’s refresh rate up to 120Hz, resulting in smoother scrolling, more responsive Apple Pencil input, and an overall more fluid user experience. The A10X Fusion chip offered even greater performance, making the second-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch a true powerhouse for demanding tasks.
Camera capabilities were also upgraded, with a 12MP rear camera and a 7MP front-facing camera. Storage options included 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB, providing ample space for storing large files and projects. The design remained largely unchanged from the first generation, but the internal enhancements made a significant difference in performance and usability.
The Third Generation (2018): A Redesigned Marvel
The third-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch, released in November 2018, represented a significant redesign. It featured a Liquid Retina display with edge-to-edge design, thinner bezels, and rounded corners. This design change resulted in a smaller overall footprint despite maintaining the same 12.9-inch screen size. Apple replaced the Lightning port with a USB-C port, enabling faster charging and data transfer, as well as compatibility with a wider range of accessories.
The third-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch was powered by the A12X Bionic chip, which delivered desktop-class performance. It also introduced Face ID, Apple’s facial recognition technology, replacing the traditional Home button. The second-generation Apple Pencil was introduced alongside this model, featuring magnetic attachment and wireless charging. Storage options included 64GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, catering to even the most demanding users. This generation was offered in silver and space gray.
The Fourth Generation (2020): Adding LiDAR for Enhanced AR
The fourth-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch, launched in March 2020, brought further refinements to the design and features. While the overall design remained similar to the third generation, the most notable addition was the LiDAR Scanner. The LiDAR Scanner enhanced augmented reality (AR) experiences by providing more accurate depth sensing and object placement. The A12Z Bionic chip offered a slight performance increase over the A12X, with an emphasis on improved graphics performance.
This generation also featured an updated camera system with a 12MP Wide camera and a 10MP Ultra Wide camera. The storage options remained the same as the third generation, offering 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations. The fourth-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch solidified Apple’s commitment to AR and provided a powerful platform for creative professionals.
The Fifth Generation (2021): The M1 Revolution
The fifth-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch, released in May 2021, marked a significant leap forward in performance and display technology. It was powered by the Apple M1 chip, the same processor found in many of Apple’s Mac computers. This transition to the M1 chip resulted in a dramatic increase in performance, making the fifth-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch incredibly fast and responsive.
The fifth-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch also introduced the Liquid Retina XDR display, which used mini-LED technology to deliver stunning contrast, brightness, and color accuracy. The Liquid Retina XDR display greatly enhanced the viewing experience, especially for HDR content. Storage options mirrored the previous generations, with 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB configurations available. Thunderbolt / USB 4 support was also added, providing faster data transfer speeds and expanded connectivity options.
The Sixth Generation (2022): M2 Power and Apple Pencil Hover
The sixth-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch, launched in October 2022, continues the trend of powerful performance and advanced features. It’s powered by the Apple M2 chip, providing an additional performance boost over the M1. One of the notable new features is Apple Pencil hover, which allows users to see a preview of where the Apple Pencil will touch the screen before it makes contact. This feature enhances precision and control, especially for drawing and sketching.
The sixth-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch maintains the same Liquid Retina XDR display as the fifth generation, along with similar storage options (128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB). The connectivity options remain the same with Thunderbolt / USB 4 support. Bluetooth 5.3 offers a more stable and faster wireless connection. The Wi-Fi 6E support also delivers faster wireless internet speeds when connected to compatible networks. The design is very similar to the previous generation, which is available in silver and space gray colors.
The Seventh Generation (2024): OLED Display, M4 Chip, and a Slimmer Design
The seventh-generation iPad Pro 12.9-inch, unveiled in May 2024, represents a significant leap forward, boasting an all-new design, a revolutionary display, and unprecedented performance. This generation introduces the Ultra Retina XDR display with tandem OLED technology, combining two OLED panels to achieve incredible brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. This marks a significant improvement over the previous generation’s mini-LED display.
Powering this powerhouse is the M4 chip, the newest generation of Apple’s silicon, promising a substantial performance boost compared to the M2. Apple claims the new iPad Pro is the thinnest Apple product ever, featuring a sleek and refined design. The front camera has been relocated to the landscape edge for a better video conferencing experience. The storage options are 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB. The new Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro enhance the overall user experience. This generation marks a significant advancement in iPad Pro technology, setting a new standard for tablet performance and display quality.
Comparing the iPad Pro 12.9-inch Generations
To further illustrate the differences between each generation, let’s briefly compare the key specifications.
| Generation | Release Date | Processor | Display | Storage Options | Key Features |
|—|—|—|—|—|—|
| 1st Gen (2015) | Nov 2015 | A9X | Retina | 32GB, 128GB, 256GB | Smart Connector, 1st Gen Apple Pencil Support |
| 2nd Gen (2017) | Jun 2017 | A10X Fusion | Retina with ProMotion | 64GB, 256GB, 512GB | ProMotion Display, Improved Camera |
| 3rd Gen (2018) | Nov 2018 | A12X Bionic | Liquid Retina (Edge-to-Edge) | 64GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | USB-C, Face ID, Redesigned, 2nd Gen Apple Pencil Support |
| 4th Gen (2020) | Mar 2020 | A12Z Bionic | Liquid Retina | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | LiDAR Scanner, Improved Camera |
| 5th Gen (2021) | May 2021 | M1 | Liquid Retina XDR (Mini-LED) | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | M1 Chip, Thunderbolt / USB 4 |
| 6th Gen (2022) | Oct 2022 | M2 | Liquid Retina XDR (Mini-LED) | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | M2 Chip, Apple Pencil Hover, Wi-Fi 6E |
| 7th Gen (2024) | May 2024 | M4 | Ultra Retina XDR (Tandem OLED) | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB | M4 Chip, Tandem OLED Display, Slimmer Design |
This table provides a concise overview of the evolution of the iPad Pro 12.9-inch, highlighting the significant advancements made with each generation.
Choosing the Right iPad Pro 12.9-inch for You
Selecting the right iPad Pro 12.9-inch depends heavily on your individual needs and budget. If you are a professional requiring the absolute best performance and display technology, the latest generation is the obvious choice. However, older generations can still provide excellent value for those with less demanding workloads.
Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- Performance: How demanding are your tasks? The M1, M2 and M4 chips offer significant performance advantages over older processors.
- Display: Do you need the enhanced contrast and brightness of the Liquid Retina XDR or Ultra Retina XDR display?
- Storage: How much storage do you require for your files and applications?
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend? Older generations are typically available at lower prices.
- Features: Do you need features like Face ID, LiDAR Scanner, or Apple Pencil hover?
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the iPad Pro 12.9-inch that best meets your needs and budget. Whether you opt for the latest model or a previous generation, the iPad Pro 12.9-inch remains a powerful and versatile tablet that can enhance your productivity and creativity.
How many generations of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro have been released?
There have been six generations of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro released by Apple as of October 2024. Each generation brings improvements in processing power, display technology, camera capabilities, and sometimes even design changes. Knowing the generation helps determine features, compatibility with accessories, and potential resale value.
Identifying the specific generation you own or are considering purchasing is essential. Apple releases new models periodically, so it’s helpful to know the release year and key specifications for each to differentiate them. This also aids in finding compatible accessories like Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard Folio/Magic Keyboard.
What are the key differences between the first and second generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro?
The first generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro, released in 2015, was powered by the A9X chip. It featured a 12.9-inch Retina display and a 8MP iSight camera. The second generation, released in 2017, improved upon this with the A10X Fusion chip, offering significantly better performance, especially in graphics-intensive tasks.
Additionally, the second-generation iPad Pro boasted a ProMotion display, which offered a refresh rate of up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and responsiveness with the Apple Pencil. The camera was also upgraded to a 12MP sensor, bringing improved image quality and the ability to record 4K video.
Which 12.9-inch iPad Pro models have the Liquid Retina XDR display?
The Liquid Retina XDR display, featuring mini-LED technology, is present in the fifth generation (2021) and sixth generation (2022) 12.9-inch iPad Pro models. This display technology offers significantly improved contrast ratio, brightness, and color accuracy compared to previous generations.
The mini-LED backlight allows for localized dimming zones, resulting in deeper blacks and brighter highlights, creating a more immersive viewing experience. This makes these models particularly suitable for creative professionals who require precise color reproduction and high dynamic range.
What processor powers the 12.9-inch iPad Pro (6th generation)?
The 6th generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro, released in 2022, is powered by the Apple M2 chip. This chip represents a significant upgrade in performance compared to the M1 chip found in the previous generation, offering faster CPU and GPU speeds.
The M2 chip delivers improved efficiency and capabilities for demanding tasks such as video editing, 3D modeling, and gaming. Its advanced architecture also contributes to enhanced machine learning performance, enabling faster and more accurate execution of AI-powered applications.
Does every generation of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro support the Apple Pencil?
All six generations of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro support the Apple Pencil, but the generation of Apple Pencil supported differs. The first and second-generation iPad Pro models support the first-generation Apple Pencil, while the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth-generation models support the second-generation Apple Pencil.
The first-generation Apple Pencil connects and charges via the Lightning port, whereas the second-generation Apple Pencil attaches magnetically to the side of the iPad Pro and charges wirelessly. This difference in connectivity and charging is a key distinction between compatible models.
Which 12.9-inch iPad Pro models have a physical Home button?
The first and second-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro models featured a physical Home button with Touch ID for biometric authentication. This design was consistent with earlier generations of iPads and iPhones.
Starting with the third generation (2018), Apple removed the Home button and introduced Face ID, a facial recognition system, for unlocking the device and authenticating purchases. This design change provided a more immersive display and a modern aesthetic.
How can I identify which generation of 12.9-inch iPad Pro I have?
You can identify your iPad Pro generation by checking the model number. This can be found on the back of the iPad Pro itself, usually printed in small text near the bottom. You can also find it in the iPad’s settings app by navigating to Settings > General > About.
Once you have the model number (starting with A), you can cross-reference it with Apple’s support documentation or online resources to determine the specific generation and year of release. This information will help you determine its capabilities and specifications.
Alden Pierce is a passionate home cook and the creator of Cooking Again. He loves sharing easy recipes, practical cooking tips, and honest kitchen gear reviews to help others enjoy cooking with confidence and creativity. When he’s not in the kitchen, Alden enjoys exploring new cuisines and finding inspiration in everyday meals.