Apple is reportedly in the final stages of development for its next-generation iPad Pro and MacBook Pro models, with mass production expected to commence in the second half of 2024. According to a report from Bloomberg, these devices are on track for a 2025 launch, though they are expected to bring only minor upgrades this year. While Apple has significant design and display innovations planned for 2026, the 2025 models will largely focus on performance enhancements and incremental refinements.
New iPad Pro: What to expect
Following a major overhaul in 2024, the 2025 iPad Pro is expected to feature only subtle refinements. Last year’s iPad Pro introduced an OLED display for the first time, along with a sleeker, more refined chassis. The 2025 version will likely build upon this foundation while incorporating Apple’s latest M5 chip for improved performance and efficiency.
Key features expected in the 2025 iPad Pro
- M5 chipset: The next-generation Apple Silicon processor will be the most significant upgrade, promising faster performance and better power efficiency.
- Refined design: While no major changes are expected, Apple may introduce small optimisations in weight and thickness.
- OLED display: The 2025 model will retain the OLED technology introduced in 2024, ensuring enhanced brightness, contrast, and energy efficiency.
- Cellular modem delay: Initial reports suggested that Apple’s first in-house modem chip (C1), which debuted in the iPhone 16e, might be included in the 2025 iPad Pro. However, Bloomberg now reports that Apple has postponed this plan until 2027, when the C2 chip is expected to roll out.
Despite the lack of major design changes, the M5 chip and potential software improvements with iPadOS 19 could still make the 2025 iPad Pro a compelling upgrade for users seeking the latest Apple performance.
New MacBook Pro: What to expect
Like the iPad Pro, the 2025 MacBook Pro is set to receive incremental upgrades, with the primary change being the inclusion of the M5 chip. While this year’s model will focus mainly on performance enhancements, Apple is reportedly planning a significant overhaul for the 2026 MacBook Pro, making next year’s model a transitional upgrade.
Key features expected in the 2025 MacBook Pro
- M5 chipset: The Apple M5 processor will likely deliver better speed, improved AI capabilities, and enhanced battery efficiency.
- Familiar design: Unlike the 2026 model, which is expected to feature a redesigned chassis, the 2025 version will retain the current MacBook Pro design.
- Mini-LED display: The OLED transition is reserved for 2026, meaning the 2025 MacBook Pro will continue using its mini-LED display, which still offers excellent brightness and HDR capabilities.
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Major upgrades coming in 2026
Apple has significant hardware changes planned for the 2026 MacBook Pro, making it one of the biggest overhauls in recent years. These include:
- Tandem OLED Display: Apple plans to introduce OLED technology to the MacBook Pro for the first time, following its success in the 2024 iPad Pro. This will offer better contrast, improved brightness, and deeper blacks compared to mini-LED.
- Slimmer Chassis: A redesigned MacBook Pro body is in development, with a focus on reducing the laptop’s overall thickness while maintaining structural integrity.
Release timeline and outlook
Apple is expected to announce its 2025 iPad Pro and MacBook Pro models in the first half of 2025, with a likely launch event in March or April. Given the incremental nature of these updates, Apple may position them as performance-driven upgrades rather than significant redesigns.
For users seeking major design and display innovations, the 2026 MacBook Pro and future iPad Pro models with in-house modems may be worth the wait. However, those looking for the latest Apple Silicon performance will find the M5-powered 2025 models to be strong contenders in their respective categories.
