Apple M5 iPad Pro: Power Redefined, But Is iPadOS Ready to Keep Up?
Apple’s M5 iPad Pro officially lands in users’ hands tomorrow, and the first wave of reviews has already painted a vivid picture of what to expect. While the hardware continues to set new benchmarks in power and performance, the question remains: has the software finally caught up?
The Ongoing Hardware–Software Tug of War
The M5 chip is undoubtedly a technical marvel. Built to handle everything from AI-driven workloads to console-level gaming, it positions the iPad Pro as a true performance beast. However, as many reviewers point out, iPadOS 26—though much improved—still hasn’t fully unlocked the M5’s potential.
David Pierce from The Verge offers a hopeful take, suggesting that iPadOS 26 is finally approaching the level of sophistication the iPad’s hardware deserves. “The M5 Pro now feels like a super-fast laptop that never slows down,” he writes, noting a smoother, more capable multitasking experience.
But not everyone is convinced. Federico Viticci from MacStories describes the M5 chip as “a paradox,” powerful yet restrained by iPadOS limitations—especially when it comes to AI development and local machine learning tools. While macOS enjoys a thriving AI ecosystem, the iPad remains restricted by its closed system.
The M5’s Distinct Strengths: Small Changes, Big Impact
Despite software constraints, reviewers unanimously agree that the M5 iPad Pro stands out with its refined hardware features. Though it closely resembles the M4 model, subtle upgrades make a tangible difference in day-to-day use.
Faster Charging, Smarter Battery
According to PCMag’s Eric Zeman, the M5 iPad Pro can reach 50% charge in just 35 minutes using a 60W USB-C charger. A full recharge completes in 1 hour and 19 minutes—ideal for professionals on the go.
Superior Connectivity
Apple’s new N1 and C1X wireless chips push the boundaries of speed and stability. Jason Snell from Six Colors confirms that Wi-Fi 7 performance is noticeably faster than Wi-Fi 6E on the M4 model. Meanwhile, Gizmodo’s Kyle Barr tested the new 5G connectivity during a real-world road trip—streaming, hotspotting, and video calling without significant drops in performance.
120Hz External Display Support
One of the most celebrated updates is the addition of 120Hz refresh rate support on external monitors. Viticci reports seamless performance with his 4K ASUS display, bringing the same fluid ProMotion experience from the iPad screen to external setups. For creative professionals and designers, this feature bridges the gap between portability and workstation power.
Where the M5 iPad Pro Truly Shines
Beyond technicalities, the M5 iPad Pro represents Apple’s vision of a future where tablets rival laptops not just in power but in productivity. Whether you’re editing 4K videos, running AI-powered tools, or working across multiple apps, this device promises fluid performance and incredible responsiveness.
However, its full potential depends heavily on how Apple continues to evolve iPadOS—particularly in opening doors to developers, advanced workflows, and local AI applications. Until then, the M5 iPad Pro remains a masterpiece waiting for the right software symphony to accompany its power.
While Apple perfects the integration between hardware and software, users still face one common challenge—transferring and managing data efficiently between devices. That’s where Smart Transfer comes in.
Smart Transfer is a powerful third-party file sharing app designed for seamless, secure file sharing between iOS and Android devices. Whether you’re upgrading to the new M5 iPad Pro or simply need to copy phone file data quickly and safely, Smart Transfer ensures a smooth and effortless migration experience.
Its intuitive design, high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity, and privacy-first encryption make it an ideal choice for anyone who values both convenience and security. From photos and contacts to large media files, Smart Transfer bridges the gap between your old and new devices—without cables, confusion, or data loss.
A Step Forward, Yet Not the Leap We Hoped For
The Apple M5 iPad Pro is a phenomenal piece of engineering—sleek, powerful, and lightning-fast. It sets a new standard for tablet performance, connectivity, and display quality. Yet, it also reminds us that power alone isn’t enough; the real breakthrough lies in how the software evolves to meet that power.
If you’re considering making the switch or upgrading your device, the M5 iPad Pro is undeniably future-proof. And when it comes to transferring your data securely and efficiently, Smart Transfer is the perfect companion to begin that journey with confidence.

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