Is It Worth Waiting for iPad Pro 2 or Should You Opt for iPad Pro 1?
As we navigate the ever-evolving world of tablets, one question often arises: Should you wait for the latest and greatest, or grab the current model? In this article, we delve into the details of both the iPad Pro 2 and iPad Pro 1, providing insights to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're looking at this article in 2023 or any other year, these considerations remain relevant.
Understanding Planned Obsolescence
Before we dive into the features of the iPad Pro 2, it's important to understand the concept of planned obsolescence. This refers to the strategy of designing a product to become outdated or unserviceable after a certain period to encourage the purchase of a newer model. In the technology world, this is often achieved by discontinuing software updates and new app support for older devices, rendering them less useful over time.
As someone who lived through the rise and fall of multiple iPad generations, I can attest to the unfortunate reality of this practice. For example, my iPad 1 and iPad 2 became essentially useless when iOS updates were no longer supported, and new apps were no longer available. This strategy is common in the tech industry, and it's crucial to be aware of it before making a purchase.
The Advantages of iPad Pro 2
The iPad Pro 2 offers several significant improvements over its predecessor, the iPad Pro 1. Here are some of the key features that make it stand out:
10.5-Inch Retina Display
The iPad Pro 2 comes with a 10.5-inch Retina display, which is 20% larger than the 9.7-inch display found in the iPad Pro 1. This provides a better viewing experience, especially for tasks that require more screen real estate.
Improved Battery Life and Performance
With a battery life of 10 hours, the iPad Pro 2 offers better efficiency. Under the hood, it features an A1 Fusion chip with a 6-core CPU and a 12-core GPU, delivering a 30% better CPU performance and 40% better graphics performance compared to the iPad Pro 1. The increased performance, especially when combined with the longer battery life, makes the iPad Pro 2 a more reliable choice for demanding tasks.
True Tone Display
The iPad Pro 2 features a True Tone display with 600 nits of brightness and ultralow reflectivity, which ensures that the screen is not too bright in bright environments and can adapt to different lighting conditions. Additionally, it supports HDR video display, making it ideal for viewing high-quality media. The ProMotion technology, with its 120 Hz display refresh rate, dynamically updates the refresh rate for a smoother and more responsive display.
Better Camera Capabilities
The iPad Pro 2 comes with a 12MP camera capable of 4K video capture, and a 7MP front-facing FaceTime HD camera. This is a significant upgrade from the iPad Pro 1, which only had an 8MP rear camera. The better camera capabilities, combined with the improved performance and display, make the iPad Pro 2 a more versatile device.
Should You Wait or Not?
If you've been following the iPad lineup, you might have noticed that new generations are constantly being released. If you're in a situation where you need a new iPad Pro immediately, there's no harm in purchasing the latest model. However, if you can wait, it's often wise to do so. Apple typically supports older models for a longer period, sometimes up to several iOS versions. This means that you can continue to use and update your device for a longer time.
The rumors suggest that Apple might have new releases in 2023. As always, these rumors are just that—rumors. Apple is known for keeping its plans under wraps, so it's best to stay informed and decide based on your specific needs.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to save money and purchase an older iPad Pro, consider the options available. Newer models often come with discounts, especially as they near their end of life. In April 2023, I might have one on sale, making it a great time to grab a deal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you should wait for the iPad Pro 2 or opt for the iPad Pro 1 depends on your specific needs and budget. The iPad Pro 2 offers significant improvements over the iPad Pro 1, but these improvements might come at a cost. By understanding the concept of planned obsolescence and keeping up with the latest rumors and releases, you can make a more informed decision. Stay informed, weigh your options, and decide what's best for you.