Apple Unveils iPad Pro, Vision Pro, and MacBook Pro Featuring M5 Chip

Apple has unveiled updated versions of the iPad Pro, Vision Pro, and entry-level MacBook Pro, now powered by the new M5 chip, just in time for the holiday season. Preorders opened on October 16, 2025, with devices set to hit stores on October 22. The updates aim to enhance performance, graphics, and AI capabilities while keeping prices consistent with previous models.

Preorders and Availability

The newly refreshed devices are available for preorder on Apple’s website, with in-store availability starting October 22. The announcement coincides with the iPhone Air launch in China, which was delayed but will now arrive on the same day.

The entry prices remain unchanged:

• iPad Pro: starts at $999

• MacBook Pro: starts at $1,599

• Vision Pro headset: $3,499

iPad Pro: Power and Performance

The iPad Pro now features the M5 chip, offering 3.5 times faster AI performance compared to the M4 chip. These improvements are expected to help the tablet rival high-end laptops in computing performance.

Key highlights include:

• OLED “tandem” display for enhanced brightness and efficiency

• 11-inch model starting under $1,000; 13-inch from $1,299

• ColorOS 16-based software, supporting improved multitasking

• N1 wireless chip and C1X modem for better connectivity

Apple also introduced a black Magic Keyboard for iPad Air, previously only available in white. The updates aim to boost demand after lower iPad sales in the June quarter.

Vision Pro: Enhanced AR Experience

The Vision Pro headset now comes with the M5 chip, providing smoother performance and slightly improved battery life over the three-year-old M2 model. Apple emphasizes advanced AR and AI experiences, though app support remains limited.

The Dual Knit Band head strap reduces fatigue, offering upper and lower cushioning for longer usage sessions. Despite its high price of $3,499, the Vision Pro continues to appeal to businesses and organizations rather than the general consumer market.

Apple has reportedly shelved a lighter, more affordable Vision Pro redesign, focusing instead on entering the smart glasses market to compete with Meta Platforms’ Ray-Ban Display glasses.

14-inch MacBook Pro: Entry-Level Upgrade

The 14-inch MacBook Pro is the first laptop in Apple’s lineup to feature the M5 chip. Performance improvements will be particularly noticeable to users upgrading from M1-series MacBooks or older Intel-based models.

The laptop is available in silver or black, with an optional anti-glare display. The MacBook Pro line contributed $8.05 billion in sales during the June quarter, surpassing Wall Street expectations of $7.3 billion.

Apple is also preparing M5 Pro and M5 Max versions for the higher-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros, expected to launch early next year.

Strategic Product Updates

The M5 chip rollout is part of Apple’s broader strategy to refresh its core hardware lineup ahead of the holiday season. Recent launches include:

• iPhone 17 and slimmer iPhone Air

• Upgraded AirPods and Apple Watches

Future Apple plans include:

• New AirTag tracking device

• HomePod mini smart speaker

• Apple TV set-top box

• iPhone 17e, iPad Air, and entry-level iPad

• A smart home hub powered by a revamped Siri assistant

Conclusion

Apple’s M5-powered updates to the iPad Pro, Vision Pro, and MacBook Pro reinforce its leadership in performance, AI, and graphics. With preorders open and a timely October 22 release, these devices are positioned to drive strong sales during the holiday season, while the company continues to expand its ecosystem with new hardware and software innovations.