Apple Dominates Tablet Market with New iPad Pro Amid Innovations and High Prices
Apple has solidified its position as the leader in the tablet market, achieving a commanding market share of 37.8% in 2023, according to consulting firm IDC. This impressive feat surpasses the combined shares of its two closest competitors, Samsung (20.4%) and Lenovo (7.2%). The recently launched iPad Pro stands as Apple's latest effort to maintain this leading status. The new iPad Pro distinguishes itself with a thin, light design, an OLED screen, and top-notch performance.
One notable advancement is the release of a new generation of processors, the M4, in the high-end tablets before introducing them in Apple's computers. Despite its impressive hardware, the iPad Pro faces criticism regarding software limitations that hinder the full utilization of its power. Moreover, the device comes with a hefty price tag, which may be prohibitive for many users.
A highlight of the iPad Pro is its remarkably slim and light structure. Apple promotes it as the company's thinnest product to date. The 11-inch model is 5.3 millimeters thick, and the 13-inch model is 5.1 millimeters - both significantly slimmer than other Apple devices like the iPhone 15. The larger model, tested by EL PAÍS, weighs 582 grams, making it extremely portable.
The tablet’s screen quality is another key feature, equipped with two OLED panels working in unison, known as the Ultra Retina XDR display. This display provides vibrant colors and sharp visuals, enhancing the experience of browsing, gaming, or watching media. However, there have been isolated reports of units with sharpness issues.
Performance-wise, the iPad Pro shines with its M4 processor, delivering exceptional speed and fluidity. It accommodates multiple applications simultaneously without lag and performs well in demanding tasks like video editing and gaming. Notably, the front camera has been repositioned to the center of the long side, improving the convenience of video calls.
However, the tablet's operating system, iPadOS, is perceived as limiting. The powerful hardware could benefit more from a desktop operating system to fully exploit its capabilities. Prices are another point of contention; starting at 1,199 euros for the 11-inch model and up to over 3,000 euros for the 13-inch high-end model, it’s beyond the reach of many potential buyers.
Apple's accessories, such as the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro, enhance the iPad Pro experience but come with additional costs, making the complete setup potentially expensive. Furthermore, the new iPad Pro isn’t compatible with accessories from previous models, which could be an inconvenience for existing iPad users.
- For users heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem, the iPad Pro offers significant advantages, despite the cost. Its integration with devices like iPhones and Macs can streamline work and increase productivity.
- The AirPods Pro 2, another key Apple product, complements the iPad Pro with advanced features such as active noise reduction, low latency, and exceptional audio quality, powered by the H2 chip. Available on AliExpress at a discounted rate, they extend Apple’s high-quality experience to audio use.
