Apple launches new iPad Pro with LiDAR scanner, trackpad-enabled keyboard
Apple has announced its latest iPad Pro models today, its most advanced tablet-cum-laptop till date. The devices retain the design of the 2018 iPad Pro while offering a new processor, an upgraded camera system, and a new "floating" Magic Keyboard that has a built-in trackpad. They also come with a dedicated LiDAR scanner to enhance their AR capabilities.
Design and display
The 2020 iPad Pro retains the design of its predecessor but with a revised rear section that now houses a square-ish camera setup. The 11-inch model gets a 2388x1668-pixel resolution while the larger 12.9-inch variant has a 2732x2048-pixel resolution. Notably, both the models sport a Liquid Retina display with support for P3 color gamut, 600-nits brightness, and 120Hz refresh rate.
For the shutterbugs and AR lovers
The dual-lens camera setup includes a 12MP (f/1.8) main sensor and a 10MP (f/2.4, 125-degree FoV) ultra-wide-angle lens. The combination offers up to 5x digital zoom and supports 4K video recording at 60fps. On the front, there is a 7MP selfie camera and Face ID sensor. Interestingly, the 2020 iPad Pro also gets a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) scanner on the rear.
LiDAR Scanner will deliver cutting-edge, depth-sensing capabilities for AR
The custom-designed LiDAR scanner uses the time of flight information to measure reflected light from up to five meters away. According to Apple, it "operates at the photon level at nano-second speeds" to deliver cutting-edge, depth-sensing capabilities and a whole new class of AR experiences.
Under the hood
The 2020 iPad Pro runs on an A12Z Bionic chipset, paired with a dedicated Neural Engine and Embedded M12 coprocessor. Both variants come in four storage options: 128GB, 256GB, 512G and 1TB. The new tablet also offers four speakers, five studio-quality microphones, and supports Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and LTE. Meanwhile, depending on the model, you get up to 10 hours of battery life.
2020 iPad Pro starts at Rs. 71,900
In India, the 2020 iPad Pro starts at Rs. 71,900 for the 11-inch Wi-Fi variant and Rs. 89,900 for the 12.9-inch Wi-Fi only model. As for availability, it will go on sale "soon". However, in the US, it will become available starting next week.
About the new Magic Keyboard
Apple has also introduced a new Magic Keyboard that attaches magnetically to the iPad Pro. It features a novel floating design wherein you can tilt the iPad at up to 130 degrees, thanks to the cantilevered hinges. Further, it has scissor-switch styled backlit keys and a multi-touch trackpad. The Magic Keyboard is priced at $349 (roughly Rs. 26,000), and will arrive in May.
