The iPad Pro 3rd generation represents a significant milestone in Apple’s tablet evolution, marking the point where the device truly matured into a viable laptop replacement. Understanding when the iPad Pro 3rd generation came out is essential for anyone looking to buy a used model or understand the timeline of Apple’s mobile technology. This specific iteration brought powerful new hardware and a complete redesign that set the standard for professional-grade tablets.
Release Date and Initial Launch
So, when did the iPad Pro 3rd generation actually hit the market? The device was officially announced on March 18, 2020, and became available for purchase just a few days later on March 25, 2020. This launch occurred during a unique period in global history, as the early rumblings of the pandemic were beginning to influence how people worked and consumed media, highlighting the need for a truly capable portable computer.
Key Specifications of the 3rd Generation
Part of the reason the 3rd generation iPad Pro was so impactful was the dramatic overhaul of its internal components. This was the first iPad to feature Apple’s revolutionary M1 chip, the same powerhouse processor found in the MacBook Air and Mac mini at the time. This shift to a PC-class chip eliminated any lingering doubts about the iPad’s ability to handle demanding creative or productivity tasks.
Introduction of the M1 chip for massive performance gains.
Support for up to 16GB of RAM.
Availability in two distinct sizes: 11-inch and 12.9-inch.
Introduction of the Magic Keyboard with integrated trackpad.
The Radical Design Overhaul
Perhaps the most visible change when the iPad Pro 3rd generation came out was the complete removal of the home button. Moving to a nearly bezel-less display with slimmer side edges, the device adopted a look that closely mirrored the iPhone. This shift necessitated the introduction of Face ID for secure unlocking, replacing the Touch ID fingerprint sensor that had been a staple of iPads for years.
Display and Audio Improvements
The display technology saw a significant upgrade with the adoption of Liquid Retina LED-backlit panels for the 11-inch model and mini-LED technology for the 12.9-inch model in later production runs. These changes delivered stunning contrast ratios and ProMotion technology, which offers a variable refresh rate up to 120Hz for buttery-smooth scrolling. The audio experience was also elevated with four speakers supporting spatial audio, making it a multimedia powerhouse.
Another major accessory milestone occurred concurrently with the device itself. The introduction of the Magic Keyboard in 2020 was a game-changer, providing a premium typing experience and a full-sized trackpad that made the iPad feel like a true computer. This accessory ecosystem was crucial in solidifying the Pro’s position as a serious tool for professionals and students alike.
Evolution Through the Years
It is important to note that the "3rd generation" label applies to the chassis design rather than the internal chip alone. The device line evolved significantly after its initial release. The 12.9-inch model was updated with the mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR display in 2021, offering incredible brightness and contrast. The 11-inch model followed with its own mini-LED upgrade in 2022, ensuring that the core design remained competitive long after its debut.
When the iPad Pro 3rd generation came out, it signaled a permanent shift in Apple’s product strategy, proving that tablets could handle complex workflows without compromise. Today, these models remain highly sought after for their combination of portability, performance, and longevity, often outperforming many laptops in real-world usage scenarios.
