The first generation iPad Pro represents a pivotal moment in Apple’s product history, marking the debut of the largest and most ambitious iPad to date. Released in November 2015, this device was engineered to blur the lines between traditional laptops and tablets, targeting creative professionals and power users who required desktop-class performance in a portable form factor. With its stunning 12.9-inch display and groundbreaking 64-bit A9X chip, the 1st gen iPad Pro set a new standard for what was expected from a mobile device.
Design and Build Quality
Apple approached the design of the first iPad Pro with a distinctively industrial aesthetic, favoring a unibody aluminum chassis that conveyed a sense of durability and premium quality. The device measures just 6.9 millimeters in thickness, making it remarkably slim for a 12.9-inch tablet, and it feels substantial in the hand without compromising on portability. The slate color finish is subtle and sophisticated, while the addition of four speakers—two on the top and two on the bottom—signaled a commitment to an immersive multimedia experience that previous iPads had not fully delivered.
Display Specifications
The centerpiece of the device is its 12.9-inch Retina display, which boasts a resolution of 2732 x 2048 pixels. This translates to a pixel density of 264 pixels per inch (PPI), providing text and images with exceptional clarity and sharpness that remains visible from typical viewing distances. The display utilizes LED-backlit IPS technology, ensuring wide viewing angles and accurate color reproduction, which is essential for professionals engaged in photo or video editing on the go.
Performance and Processor
Under the hood, the 1st gen iPad Pro is driven by the A9X chip coupled with an M9 motion coprocessor, a combination that delivers desktop-class performance within a mobile environment. The A9X is a 64-bit processor built on a second-generation 64-bit architecture, offering significant gains in both CPU and GPU performance over its predecessors. This power translates to smooth multitasking, rapid app loading times, and the ability to handle complex 3D games and professional applications with ease.
Memory and Storage Options
Apple offered the first iPad Pro in two distinct storage configurations to accommodate different user needs: 32GB and 128GB. While the base model provides ample space for casual use and app installation, the 128GB variant is highly recommended for users who intend to store large libraries of media or work with demanding software. RAM is standardized at 4GB, which was generous at the time and contributes to the system’s fluidity and ability to keep multiple applications running simultaneously without degradation.
When it comes to connectivity, the 1st generation iPad Pro embraces modern standards with enthusiasm. It features 802.11ac Wi-Fi for fast wireless networking and optional Gigabit-class LTE support, allowing for high-speed data connections on the move. The device also incorporates Bluetooth 4.2 for seamless pairing with accessories like keyboards and headphones, ensuring that users can maintain a productive and connected workflow wherever they are.
Camera and Audio Features
Although primarily positioned as a content creation tool rather than a communication device, the iPad Pro still includes capable camera hardware. The rear-facing iSight camera captures 8-megapixel photos and 4K video, while the front-facing FaceTime HD camera is suitable for video calls and自拍. The audio experience is significantly elevated by the inclusion of four speakers, a configuration that provided some of the loudest and clearest sound available in a tablet during its generation, greatly enhancing video playback and gaming sessions.
