The Reign of the Compact Powerhouse: Unveiling the 9.7-inch iPad Pro

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro debuted on March 21, 2016, and was released to the public on March 31, 2016. It marked a pivotal moment, shrinking the power and professional features of the larger 12.9-inch iPad Pro into a more portable and arguably more versatile form factor.

A Deep Dive into the 9.7-inch iPad Pro

The introduction of the 9.7-inch iPad Pro wasn’t merely about offering a smaller screen size. It was a strategic move by Apple to capture a broader market, particularly those who valued portability without sacrificing performance and professional-grade capabilities. This device seamlessly blended the convenience of the original iPad form factor with the advanced features previously reserved for its larger counterpart. It was more than just a tablet; it was a mobile workstation.

Key Features that Defined its Era

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro boasted a number of features that set it apart from other tablets on the market at the time. Firstly, the display was a highlight, featuring a wide color gamut, previously unseen on iPads, and True Tone technology, which dynamically adjusted the screen’s color temperature to match ambient lighting. This resulted in a more natural and comfortable viewing experience, whether you were working on creative projects or simply browsing the web.

Secondly, the inclusion of the A9X chip delivered a significant performance boost, enabling smoother multitasking, faster graphics rendering, and an overall more responsive user experience. This processing power was crucial for handling demanding tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and running professional applications.

Thirdly, the 9.7-inch iPad Pro offered compatibility with the Apple Pencil, providing a precise and intuitive input method for artists, designers, and note-takers. The seamless integration of the Apple Pencil unlocked new creative possibilities and transformed the iPad Pro into a true digital canvas.

Finally, the inclusion of a Smart Keyboard connector allowed users to attach a physical keyboard, further enhancing productivity and making the iPad Pro a viable alternative to a laptop for many tasks.

Why the 9.7-inch Model Mattered

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro was significant for several reasons. It proved that professional-grade features could be successfully integrated into a smaller, more accessible package. It broadened the appeal of the iPad Pro line, attracting users who found the 12.9-inch model too cumbersome. It also pushed the boundaries of what a tablet could be, blurring the lines between tablets and laptops. Ultimately, it solidified Apple’s position as a leader in the tablet market and paved the way for future innovations in the iPad Pro lineup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the 9.7-inch iPad Pro:

1. What processor did the 9.7-inch iPad Pro use?

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro was powered by the Apple A9X chip with an embedded M9 coprocessor. This chip offered significant performance improvements over previous iPad models, enabling smoother multitasking and faster processing speeds.

2. How much storage was available on the 9.7-inch iPad Pro?

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro was available in three storage options: 32GB, 128GB, and 256GB. This allowed users to choose the storage capacity that best suited their needs, whether they primarily used the device for browsing and light tasks or for storing large files and media.

3. Did the 9.7-inch iPad Pro support the Apple Pencil?

Yes, the 9.7-inch iPad Pro fully supported the first-generation Apple Pencil. This integration allowed users to take notes, sketch, and create artwork with precision and ease. The Apple Pencil became a key selling point, transforming the iPad Pro into a versatile creative tool.

4. Was there a Smart Keyboard available for the 9.7-inch iPad Pro?

Yes, Apple offered a Smart Keyboard specifically designed for the 9.7-inch iPad Pro. This keyboard connected via the Smart Connector, providing a physical keyboard for enhanced typing and productivity.

5. What were the camera specifications of the 9.7-inch iPad Pro?

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro featured a 12-megapixel iSight camera with autofocus, a f/2.2 aperture, and the ability to record 4K video. It also had a 5-megapixel FaceTime HD camera on the front for video calls and selfies.

6. Did the 9.7-inch iPad Pro have cellular connectivity options?

Yes, the 9.7-inch iPad Pro was available in both Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + Cellular models. The cellular models allowed users to connect to the internet via cellular networks, providing connectivity on the go.

7. What was the display resolution of the 9.7-inch iPad Pro?

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro featured a Retina display with a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 264 pixels per inch (ppi). This high-resolution display delivered sharp, detailed images and text.

8. How long did the battery last on the 9.7-inch iPad Pro?

Apple claimed that the 9.7-inch iPad Pro offered up to 10 hours of battery life for web browsing on Wi-Fi, watching videos, or listening to music. On cellular models, battery life was estimated at up to 9 hours when using a cellular data network.

9. What operating system did the 9.7-inch iPad Pro ship with?

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro originally shipped with iOS 9.3. It was later updated to subsequent versions of iOS and iPadOS, receiving feature updates and security patches.

10. Was the 9.7-inch iPad Pro discontinued? When?

Yes, the 9.7-inch iPad Pro was discontinued in June 2017, when Apple announced the 10.5-inch iPad Pro as its successor. The 10.5-inch model offered a larger display in a similar form factor, along with improved performance and features.

11. What colors was the 9.7-inch iPad Pro available in?

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro was available in four colors: Silver, Gold, Space Gray, and Rose Gold. This range of color options allowed users to choose a model that matched their personal style.

12. Is the 9.7-inch iPad Pro still worth buying in today’s market?

While the 9.7-inch iPad Pro is an older model, it can still be a viable option for users with basic needs, especially if you can find it at a significantly reduced price. However, keep in mind that it may not receive the latest software updates, and its performance may not be as fast as newer models. Consider its limitations before making a purchase, and weigh them against current iPad models. Consider factors like processing power, camera capabilities, and compatibility with the latest accessories. For many users, investing in a newer iPad will provide a more future-proof and enjoyable experience.