M4 iPad Pro review - too ambitious?

The video opens with the host sharing their extensive experience with the new M4 13-inch iPad Pro, highlighting the outstanding hardware and the lingering question of whether the device is too ambitious. The host recalls the surprise of the M1 chip's introduction to the iPad in 2021 and the high-quality display of the 12.9-inch model but notes that iPad OS 14 and 15 failed to fully utilize the Mac-level power. Despite improvements in external display support and Pro apps, the host feels a sense of déjà vu with the 2018 and 2021 iPad Pro models. The video promises to discuss the iPad Pro's incredible features and potential overreach without appropriate software, hinting at an upcoming event in 2024.

The host transitions to acknowledging the sponsors of the video, Anker, and their 3-in-1 power bank. This device serves as both a portable battery and a wall charger, with a built-in USB-C cable, a 5,000 mAh battery, and the ability to charge devices at up to 30W. The power bank is described as compact, stylish, and available in multiple colors, with a built-in indicator to show remaining charge. It can charge two devices simultaneously and includes a carrying strap. The host appreciates the product's convenience and anticipates using it regularly. Anker also sent a 10,000 mAh version and additional accessories, for which the host expresses gratitude.

The host discusses the impressive thinness of the new iPad Pro, noting that while it wasn't a feature they specifically wished for, it greatly enhances the handling experience, especially when used with the redesigned Magic Keyboard. The iPad Pro is compared to the MacBook Air in terms of thickness, with the new model being slightly thicker but still impressively slim. The host emphasizes that the new design makes the iPad Pro more compelling for regular use. They also address concerns about battery life, assuring that despite the slimmer profile, the new chip's efficiency and Apple's optimization maintain the same battery life as previous models.

The host praises the display of the M4 iPad Pro, suggesting it has no current rival in terms of contrast, color, and brightness. The new iPad Pro achieves 1,000 nits of sustained brightness, a feat more readily accomplished on smaller OLED displays. The host explains that Apple has implemented a tandem OLED display, stacking two displays to double brightness and achieve an unprecedented 2 million to 1 contrast ratio. This new display technology is powered by the M4 chip, which includes a new display driving engine to sync the two OLED displays. The M4 chip is built using TSMC's Gen 2 3nm process, offering significant CPU and GPU performance gains and improved power efficiency, allowing the iPad Pro to be thin while maintaining all-day battery life. The host also mentions the thermal management features of the new iPad Pro, including the use of graphite and copper to prevent overheating.

The host poses a critical question about the M4 iPad Pro's capabilities, questioning what the performance and innovation offer if the overall experience does not match that of a Mac. They express hope that Apple will take the iPad Pro more seriously in terms of software, aiming for a Mac-comparable experience without being identical. The host reflects on the history of iPad Pro models and the evolution of iPad OS, noting that while hardware has advanced significantly, the software has not kept pace. They mention the introduction of Stage Manager and external monitor support as steps in the right direction but point out that the iPad's framework still hinders efficiency. The host argues that with the high price of the iPad Pro models, users should expect an experience closer to a Mac, especially when using the device with a keyboard or display. They also briefly touch on the new Apple Pencil Pro, promising a more in-depth review in a future video.

In the conclusion, the host expresses anticipation for an ambitious iPad OS release that could potentially transform the hybrid market. They acknowledge the waiting game that users have been playing for nearly half a decade and the various factors that may have contributed to Apple's focus on other product lines. Despite this, the host remains hopeful that the impressive hardware of the new iPad Pro models will prompt Apple to deliver the software experience users have been hoping for. The video wraps up with the host looking forward to sharing a full review of the iPad Pro and additional content on the 13-inch iPad Air and new accessories in the near future.