When discussing the iPad Pro 2nd generation, it is essential to clarify the specific model year to avoid confusion. Apple released two distinct devices under this name, and understanding the difference is critical for performance expectations and software support. The first is the 2017 iPad Pro 12.9-inch, which featured the True Tone display and the A10X Fusion chip. The second is the 2020 iPad Pro 12.9-inch, which introduced the radical mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR display and the M1 chip. This distinction defines the user experience, longevity, and capability of the device.
Defining the Generations: 2017 vs. 2020
To answer "what year is iPad Pro 2nd generation" accurately, one must look at the specific hardware lineage. The 2017 model represents the second generation of the 12.9-inch iPad Pro line, marking a significant leap with USB-C and augmented reality readiness. However, the 2020 model is technically the second generation of the larger 12.9-inch format, but it is often colloquially referred to as the "second generation iPad Pro" due to its transformative redesign. If you are asking about the device that succeeded the 2016 model, you are likely referring to the 2017 unit. If you are referencing the device that followed the 2018 model, you are looking at the 2020 version.
The 2017 Model: The AR Pioneer
Launched in June 2017, the 2017 iPad Pro 12.9 was designed with creators and professionals in mind. It was one of the first tablets to prioritize content consumption and production over media consumption. Key specifications include a 12.9-inch Retina display, the A10X Fusion chip, and support for the first-generation Apple Pencil. This model established the iPad Pro as a legitimate computer for many, laying the groundwork for the software ecosystem that exists today. Its year of release places it firmly in the era of iOS 10 and the early stages of iPadOS.
The 2020 Model: The Pro-Level Tablet
The 2020 iPad Pro, released in March 2020, is arguably the more significant generational leap. This device abandoned the traditional LCD for a Mini-LED panel, delivering a level of contrast and brightness previously unseen on a tablet. The introduction of the A12Z Bionic chip, which is nearly identical to the A12Z found in the 2020 MacBook Air, future-proofed the device for demanding tasks. Furthermore, the compatibility with the second-generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard made it a viable desktop replacement. If you are trying to determine the value and capability of a "second-generation" iPad Pro, the 2020 model is generally the standard bearer.
Performance and Longevity Comparison
The difference in performance between the 2017 and 2020 models is substantial and dictates their current relevance. The 2017 iPad Pro, while still functional for basic tasks, struggles with modern, graphics-intensive applications. Users may experience slowdowns when editing 4K video or using complex creative software. In contrast, the 2020 iPad Pro handles these tasks with ease, thanks to the M1-level efficiency of the A12Z chip. This performance gap directly impacts the device's longevity; the 2020 model is expected to receive software updates for several more years, whereas the 2017 model is nearing the end of its lifecycle.
Display Technology: A Generational Divide
More perspective on What year is ipad pro 2nd generation can make the topic easier to follow by connecting earlier points with a few simple takeaways.
