Apple’s New iPad Pro M5 Chip Shocks Users — 6 Hidden Upgrades You Didn’t See Coming

The eagerly anticipated Apple iPad Pro has officially arrived—and this time it’s not just about a new chip. While the upgraded M5 chip grabs headlines, the real story lies in six under-the-hood hardware improvements that work behind the scenes to dramatically elevate performance, connectivity and productivity. Whether you’re in the U.S. or the U.K., creatives, professionals and power-users alike have reasons to sit up and take notice.

Introducing the M5 era

At first glance, the talk centres on the new M5 chip powering the iPad Pro—but the enhancements go far beyond just faster processing. Apple’s announcement revealed both incremental and foundational upgrades that together deliver a significantly more capable machine. In short: this is more than a refresh—it’s a meaningful leap.

Six key upgrades you should know

Here’s a breakdown of the six major improvements that go beyond the M5 chip itself:

1. More unified RAM on selected models
   For the first time, the 256 GB and 512 GB storage tiers now ship with 12 GB of unified memory (RAM), up from the earlier 8 GB in previous models. Meanwhile, the 1 TB and 2 TB configurations continue to carry 16 GB of RAM. 
   Why it matters: More RAM means better multitasking, smoother workflows (especially for creatives with large files) and future-proofing for heavier apps.

2. Faster SSD read/write speeds
   Apple has doubled typical SSD speeds in real-world usage: apps launch faster, file transfers are swifter, and large assets load more responsively. 
   Why it matters: If you’re editing video, juggling large graphic files or tethering to external storage, these improvements pay off.

3. Wi-Fi 7 & Bluetooth 6 connectivity
   A new custom chip (N1) brings the iPad Pro up to speed with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 on compatible networks & accessories.
   Why it matters: Faster wireless connectivity means less lag when streaming high-quality content, better performance in wireless hubs, and improved accessory pairing.

4. Faster cellular data for mobile users
   For models with cellular support, a new chip (C1X in Apple’s nomenclature) promises up to 50 % faster data performance when using 5G or the best networks available.
   Why it matters: For users working on the go—whether in the U.S., U.K. or elsewhere—stronger mobile connectivity means fewer bottlenecks when uploading/download large files or collaborating remotely.

5. External monitor support up to 120 Hz with Adaptive Sync
   The upgraded display/graphics pipeline now allows the iPad Pro to feed external displays at up to 120 Hz refresh rates, and supports smoother visuals via Adaptive Sync technology. 
   Why it matters: If you use the iPad Pro for presentations, external monitors, or as a desktop-adjacent device, the upgrade enables a fluid experience that rivals many laptops.

6. Fast charging & improved battery realism
   While Apple maintains the same “all-day” battery life claim (up to about 10 hours of web surfing on Wi-Fi). The charging speeds, however, are improved: users can now expect about 50 % charge in roughly 30 minutes under optimal conditions.
   Why it matters: Better charging means reduced downtime, especially for professionals and creatives who rely on the iPad for on-the-move work.

So what’s different on the M5 chip front?

While the six upgrades above are major, the M5 chip still contributes significantly: early benchmark data (e.g., from Geekbench 6) suggest CPU gains of up to 20 % over the previous generation M4, and GPU improvements as high as 40 %.
This means smoother performance in graphically intensive apps, better responsiveness for multitasking and future-protection for upcoming versions of iPad OS and pro-level creative suites.

What doesn’t change (and why it matters)

Not everything is brand new. The external design of the iPad Pro remains largely unchanged from the previous model, which means existing accessories (cases, stands, keyboards) remain compatible. 
For many users, that’s a relief: you get big internal upgrades without necessarily having to re-invest in an entirely new accessory ecosystem.

Why it matters for UK & USA users

For readers in the U.S. and the U.K., the significance of these upgrades translates into:

• Better performance for creative professionals: Whether you’re editing 4K/8K video, designing in Procreate, or running virtual-desktop sessions, the hardware improvements help you stay ahead of bottlenecks.

• Enhanced mobility for business and remote work: With improved connectivity (Wi-Fi 7, faster 5G), you’re less tethered to desk setups and can stay productive on the go.

• Future-proofing your investment: Upgrades like higher RAM, faster storage, and better display support mean the iPad Pro will remain capable for years to come.

• Smooth external display workflows: The 120 Hz external display support opens up iPad Pro as a viable node in multi-display setups, especially relevant for professionals in the U.S. and U.K. who may use the iPad alongside laptops or desktops.

Should you upgrade (or buy now)?

If you currently own an iPad Pro from the previous generation and you rely on heavy workflows (video editing, high-end graphics, external displays, mobile data work), then this model is a compelling upgrade.
If, however, you’re a casual user — browsing the web, streaming, light productivity — you may not notice massive differences in everyday use. The core experience will still be excellent.

The verdict

The new iPad Pro equipped with the M5 chip and six substantial hardware upgrades offers more than just incremental performance—it represents a meaningful evolution. Apple has focused on the real-world bottlenecks that matter in professional use: RAM, storage speed, connectivity and display performance.
For users in the U.S. and the U.K. who push their devices beyond consumption and into production territory, this new iPad Pro is very much worth your attention.