iPad Pro A9X 2016

Essentially a "mini" iPad Pro, the iPad Pro 9.7-inch models offer significant improvements and some trade-offs compared to their larger, older 12.9-inch counterparts. They are marketed as the "ultimate upgrade for existing iPad users" for content creation and as a "replacement for PC users."

Both 9.7-inch iPad Pro devices, this Cellular-equipped model and its Wi-Fi only twin, feature a fully-laminated 9.7-inch LED-backlit 2048x1536 (264 ppi, DCI-P3 color gamut) touch-sensitive "Retina" display with "True Tone" technology for dynamic white balance, plus a fingerprint-resistant, antireflective coating.

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro models are powered by an Apple A9X processor, have 2 GB of RAM, and are available with 32 GB, 128 GB, or 256 GB of flash storage. They come in Black and Space Gray, White and Silver, White and Gold, or White and Rose Gold cases.

Other key features include dual cameras: a rear 12-megapixel "iSight" camera for stills and 4K video, and a front 5-megapixel "FaceTime HD" camera for stills and 720p video. They also support dual-band 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi with HT80 with MIMO, Bluetooth 4.2, dual microphones, and two sets of stereo speakers that automatically adjust based on orientation.

A Lightning port provides power and computer connectivity. A "Smart Connector" allows for a device-specific Apple Smart Keyboard. Additional input is supported by the optional "Apple Pencil" (A1603, MK0C2AM/A, US$99) for pressure-sensitive drawing.

Battery life is rated at 10 hours for "surfing the web on Wi-Fi, watching video, or listening to music," and nine hours on cellular data.

This Wi-Fi/Cellular 9.7-inch iPad Pro supports A-GPS and LTE Advanced (Bands 1-5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17-20, 25-30, 38-41). It has an "Embedded Apple SIM" for easy carrier switching, plus a nano SIM slot.

The 9.7-inch iPad Pro was praised for successfully packing most of the power and key features of its larger 12.9-inch sibling into a more portable and familiar form factor. The standout feature was its advanced True Tone display, which adjusted its color temperature to ambient lighting, making for a more comfortable and natural viewing experience. It also supported the wide P3 color gamut, a first for an iPad. The A9X chip provided excellent performance, easily handling professional apps. A significant upgrade over the contemporary iPad Air 2 was its support for the Apple Pencil, turning it into a versatile creative tool. It also boasted a superior 12MP rear camera, capable of 4K video, and a powerful four-speaker audio system. This cellular model offered fast LTE Advanced connectivity, making it a fantastic all-in-one device for professionals on the move. It was seen as the best all-around iPad Apple had made to date, perfectly balancing pro-level features with everyday usability.