The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2015) was the first iteration of the iPad Pro line, marking a significant departure from the traditional iPad size with its large 12.9-inch display. Released in September 2015, this iPad Pro was aimed at power users, designers, and professionals looking for a device to boost productivity.

Here’s a breakdown of its key features and specifications:

Key Features

1. Display

• Size: 12.9 inches, making it the largest iPad at the time of release.
• Resolution: 2732 x 2048 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 264 ppi.
• Display Technology: Retina display with anti-reflective coating. This display was exceptional in terms of color accuracy and viewing angles, offering a significant upgrade compared to earlier iPads.

2. Performance

• Chipset: Powered by the Apple A9X chip, a 64-bit processor designed for high performance, it was paired with an M9 motion coprocessor.
• The A9X provided a notable leap in performance compared to earlier models, ensuring the iPad Pro could handle more demanding tasks such as video editing and multitasking.

3. Storage

• Available in 32GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage variants.

4. Software

• Shipped with iOS 9, which introduced features like Slide Over, Split View, and Picture in Picture, allowing for enhanced multitasking. Over the years, it received several software updates, making it compatible with the most recent versions of iPadOS.

5. Camera

• Rear Camera: 8MP iSight camera with 1080p video recording.
• Front Camera: 1.2MP FaceTime HD camera, suitable for FaceTime calls and selfies.
• The camera specs were average for its time, focused more on functional use than on high-end photography.

6. Accessories

• Apple Pencil Support: The iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2015) introduced support for the Apple Pencil, making it the first iPad to support this professional-level stylus designed for precise drawing, writing, and creative work.
• Smart Keyboard: It was the first iPad to support Apple’s Smart Keyboard, offering a more laptop-like experience with physical keys.

7. Audio

• The device featured a four-speaker audio system, which provided improved sound quality and directionality compared to other iPad models.

8. Battery Life

• Apple claimed up to 10 hours of battery life, which was consistent with the iPad’s performance on Wi-Fi usage, web browsing, and video playback.

Design

• The iPad Pro 12.9-inch had a larger, more robust design than other iPads, with an aluminum body and slim bezels around the display.
• Dimensions: 305.7 x 220.6 x 6.9 mm.
• Weight: Approximately 713 grams (Wi-Fi only), which was notably heavier than previous iPads.

Connectivity

• Wi-Fi + Cellular Models: Optional models that supported 4G LTE.
• Bluetooth 4.2 and Lightning port for charging and accessories.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Large display ideal for multitasking, design work, and entertainment.
• First to support the Apple Pencil, making it an ideal device for creatives.
• Strong performance, particularly for productivity apps and creative work.
• Excellent audio system, enhancing multimedia experiences.

Cons:

• Relatively heavy for extended use compared to smaller iPads.
• Lacked the advanced display technology found in newer models (e.g., ProMotion or Liquid Retina).
• Expensive compared to other tablets at its time of release.