The unveiling of the latest 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Pro models equipped with cutting-edge features like OLED displays and Apple’s M4 chip was expected to drive consumer interest. However, it turns out these premium devices didn’t significantly influence Apple’s recent sales growth. Instead, it’s the more affordable iPads that have bolstered the company’s remarkable 15% increase in this category.
During Apple’s Q1 2025 earnings report, it was revealed that their iPad line generated a substantial $8.088 billion, up from $7.02 billion during the same quarter last year. While one might assume that this surge was fueled by the high-performance M4 iPad Pro models, it’s actually the less pricey alternatives that have been the main contributors. According to industry analyst Mark Gurman, the company attributed its 15% growth predominantly to the success of the iPad Air with M2 chips and other budget-friendly models.
There are clear reasons why the M4 iPad Pro family hasn’t made a more significant impact. Priced similarly to a Mac, these tablets don’t offer the expanded versatility and capabilities of a device running macOS. Users face a learning curve when adapting to iPadOS, despite the impressive performance upgrades offered by the M4 chip. In contrast, more affordable iPads deliver a comparable user experience for most tasks, albeit with some limitations like the inability to run Apple Intelligence or AAA gaming titles on the iPad 10 model. However, even this issue is being addressed.
Apple is set to launch its ‘low cost’ iPad 11 later this year, a model that promises substantial value by featuring the A17 Pro chip. If rumors hold true and it boasts an 8GB memory, it could support Apple Intelligence, making it an even more attractive option for consumers. Given this strategic pricing and potential enhancements, Apple’s iPad revenue is likely to keep climbing in upcoming quarters. While a successor to the M4 iPad Pro might not be on the immediate horizon, the current 11-inch and 13-inch Pro models remain highly capable for users who can justify their premium cost. For those inclined to make a purchase, a current sale on Amazon offers a $200 discount, making these devices available starting at $899.
