What iPad Pro Came Out in 2022: A Comprehensive Review

What came out in 2022: iPad Pro with M2

According to Tablet Info, the question of what ipad pro came out in 2022 is answered by the introduction of two M2-powered Pro models. Apple announced the lineup in September 2022, followed by shipments in October. The 2022 refresh kept the familiar edge-to-edge design but brought a substantive upgrade to processing power, graphics capability, and overall system responsiveness. The M2 chip unlocks faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and better efficiency in creative apps like photo/video editing, 3D design, and AI-assisted workflows. The iPad Pro family thus positioned itself as a portable workstation for professionals and power users who value a balance of mobility and performance.

• The M2 upgrade specifically targets workflow-heavy tasks, including multi-app desktops-like layouts, high-resolution editing, and real-time collaboration.
• If you’re upgrading from an earlier M1 model or from a non-Pro iPad, the performance delta is especially noticeable in tasks like rendering, export times, and large-file handling.
• Tablet Info notes that Apple maintained strong accessory support (Apple Pencil and keyboard cases), ensuring a cohesive ecosystem for professional use in fieldwork or studio environments.

Performance gains: M2 chip explained

The 2022 iPad Pro lineup pivots on the Apple M2 chip, which brings noticeable gains in CPU and GPU performance compared with the M1 variant. This translates to faster edits in complex RAW photos, smoother color-grading in 4K timelines, and more fluid multitasking with large documents. The M2 also improves memory bandwidth, app responsiveness, and thermal efficiency, helping sustain peak performance during longer sessions. Practically, users should expect shorter render times, snappier UX, and better battery management under heavy workloads.

• The M2’s architecture optimizes machine learning tasks and on-device computations, which is especially helpful for creative apps that leverage Apple’s neural engines.
• If you perform 3D editing, video production, or high-resolution photo workflows on the go, the M2-equipped Pro models offer tangible time-savings and smoother previews.
• For everyday tasks, the upgrade remains noticeable but less dramatic than the professional-use perception, as the iPad Pro already excelled in daily productivity.

Display and design changes

In 2022, the iPad Pro retained its iconic edge-to-edge display with two size options. The 12.9-inch model continues to feature the mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR panel, delivering higher contrast and brighter highlights ideal for HDR projects. The 11-inch model sticks with a high-quality LCD, offering portability without compromising image fidelity. The chassis remains slim and light, enabling long hours of use in travel or on-set environments. Users also gain improved color accuracy and broader viewing angles, making the Pro more capable for color-sensitive work.

• Mini-LED brings deeper blacks and more dynamic range, valuable for editors and photographers.
• The two sizes provide a practical choice between portability (11-inch) and screen real estate (12.9-inch).
• Software optimizations ensure that both displays render UI elements, videos, and graphics crisply in high brightness conditions.

Connectivity, accessories, and ecosystem

The 2022 Pro models preserve USB‑C connectivity and expand the accessory ecosystem. This includes compatibility with the second-gen Apple Pencil and a range of keyboard cases and docks, enabling a desktop-like experience when attached to a display or external storage. Connectivity remains robust for Wi-Fi 6 and optional cellular variants, depending on model and configuration. The ecosystem approach reinforces the Pro line’s role as a portable workstation rather than a casual media tablet.

• USB‑C enables fast data transfer and charging alongside external displays.
• Pencil and keyboard support unlocks professional workflows in sketching, note-taking, and document production.
• Availability of cellular models helps professionals who travel or work in environments without reliable Wi-Fi.

Battery life, charging, and thermal design

Battery performance remains a critical factor for professionals who work long sessions away from power sources. The 2022 iPad Pro models typically offer up to ten hours of usage on a full charge, depending on activity. The cooling system and chip efficiency contribute to steadier performance under load, reducing thermal throttling during extended tasks. Charging via USB‑C supports most modern chargers and accessories, though very fast charging behavior may depend on charger and cable quality. This balance of endurance and efficiency is central to the Pro’s mobile workstation appeal.

Cameras, LiDAR, and AR capabilities

The camera system on the 2022 iPad Pro retains a dual-camera setup and LiDAR for depth sensing, enabling advanced AR workflows and improved photography and videography capabilities. The 12MP wide and 10MP ultra-wide cameras provide flexible framing options, while LiDAR supports precise depth mapping and augmented reality experiences. For creators, these sensors, combined with the M2 performance, translate into more accurate color grading, reliable autofocus in challenging lighting, and faster previewing of edits during shoots. The camera system remains a practical advantage for fieldwork and studio shoots alike.

Value, price ranges, and buying considerations for 2026

As newer iPad Pro generations enter the market, buyers in 2026 should weigh the 2022 model against current options. If the 2022 Pro aligns with your software needs, accessory ecosystem, and preferred screen sizes, it can still offer strong value, particularly on refurbished or discounted units. Consider factors like software support longevity, resale value, and your intended workflows—photo/video editing, CAD-like tasks, or design work—to determine whether the 2022 model remains the best fit. Price ranges vary by storage, cellular capability, and condition.

How to choose between 11-inch and 12.9-inch in 2022 models

Choosing between the 11-inch and the 12.9-inch iPad Pro hinges on your primary use case. If portability and one-handed operation are priorities, the 11-inch variant is more convenient for travel and fieldwork. If you require a larger real estate for editing, multi-monitor-like layouts, or precise color work, the 12.9-inch model’s display benefits justify the extra size. In either case, pairing with the Apple Pencil (2nd gen) and a capable keyboard can maximize productivity. Tablet Info recommends evaluating your typical workspace, travel needs, and how often you’ll rely on external displays when deciding which size best fits your 2022 Pro setup.