There was no surprise when Apple launched a bigger iPad at its press event on September 9th. There have been several leaks suggesting that Apple was working on an iPad with a screen as big as a laptop. The iPad Pro, as Apple is calling it, is, for the lack of a better descriptor, almost a laptop. Here are the specs:
- 12.9 inch screen.
- A9X chip with embedded M9 co-processor and a new memory architecture.
- 8 megapixel iSight camera and 1.2 megapixel FaceTime HD camera.
- Dual microphones.
- Apple SIM.
- Four speaker audio.
- Apple Keyboard and Pencil support
This new iPad is aimed at serious professional work. With the fastest processor and advances in the display, the iPad Pro is aimed at professionals who are looking for an optimal balance of productivity and portability. With the Apple Pencil and the keyboard, Apple deviates from its long term stand of using fingers as the only way to interact with its touch screen devices. This shows that they are willing to prove themselves wrong in order to deliver what the consumers want (and make lots of money).
We are yet to see what professionals think about the Apple Pencil and the keyboard, but they seem great from the first look. Here is a video showing the Apple Pencil in action:
