Exploring Apple iPad Pro 97 Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Design and Build

The Apple iPad Pro 9.7 (2016) is a testament to Apple's commitment to premium design. With dimensions measuring 240 x 169.5 x 6.1 mm and a weight of 437 g for the Wi-Fi variant and 444 g for the LTE variant, this iPad is fairly lightweight and portable. The sleek aluminum back and frame, complemented by a glass front, give it a modern and sturdy feel. Available in an array of colors including Silver, Gold, Space Gray, and Rose Gold, the iPad Pro 9.7 caters to diverse aesthetic preferences.

Display Features

The device sports a 9.7-inch IPS LCD display, which offers a resolution of 1536 x 2048 pixels at a 4:3 aspect ratio. This results in a pixel density of approximately 264 ppi, which is more than adequate for a tablet of this size. The screen is protected by scratch-resistant glass and an oleophobic coating, ensuring durability and resistance to smudges.

Performance and Storage

Under the hood, the iPad Pro 9.7 is powered by the Apple A9X chip, based on a 16 nm process, with a dual-core 2.16 GHz processor. The graphical performance is handled by the PowerVR Series 7 GPU, featuring 12-core graphics. These specifications make the iPad Pro 9.7 highly capable of handling both routine tasks and more demanding applications such as photo editing and gaming.

The device offers multiple storage options, including 32GB, 128GB, and 256GB variants, each paired with 2GB of RAM. However, the lack of a card slot means storage expansion is not possible, so potential buyers need to consider their storage needs when purchasing.

Operating System and Software

Originally launched with iOS 9.3.2, the iPad Pro 9.7 is upgradable to iPadOS 16.7.5. This ensures the tablet benefits from ongoing software updates, new features, and security enhancements, keeping the user experience fresh and secure. Being part of the iOS ecosystem, users can take full advantage of Apple's robust App Store and the suite of productivity and entertainment applications it offers.

Camera Capabilities

In terms of photography, the iPad Pro 9.7 is equipped with a 12 MP rear-facing camera with an f/2.2 aperture, 29mm focal length (standard), and features such as PDAF, Dual-LED dual-tone flash, and HDR. This allows for shooting high-quality images and 4K videos at 30fps. Additionally, it supports 1080p video recording at various frame rates including 30, 60, and 120fps, as well as 720p at 240fps for slow-motion shots.

The front-facing camera is a 5 MP sensor with an aperture of f/2.2 and 31mm focal length (standard), supporting features like face detection, HDR, and panorama. It is also capable of recording 1080p videos at 30fps, making it ideal for video calls and selfies.

Battery Life

The iPad Pro 9.7 runs on a non-removable 7306 mAh Li-Ion battery, which Apple claims can deliver up to 10 hours of multimedia usage. The robust battery life is a key feature, allowing users to engage in lengthy sessions of work, study, or entertainment without frequent recharging.

Connectivity Options

The device offers extensive connectivity options. It supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with dual-band capabilities and a hotspot feature. Bluetooth 4.2 ensures compatibility with a wide range of accessories. The GPS capability is supported by GLONASS (Wi-Fi + Cellular model only), enhancing navigation services. Moreover, the iPad Pro 9.7 supports LTE networks, ensuring high-speed data connectivity while on the move. Other connectivity features include a Lightning USB 2.0 port and a magnetic connector for accessory attachment, along with a Nano-SIM and eSIM for varied network solutions.

Audio Features

The iPad Pro 9.7 is equipped with four stereo speakers, resulting in a rich and immersive audio experience. It also maintains a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing for wired audio connectivity, which remains a sought-after feature despite the industry's gradual shift toward wireless solutions.

Sensors and Additional Features

The tablet includes a suite of sensors, including a front-mounted fingerprint sensor for secure access, an accelerometer, gyro, compass, and a barometer. These enable enhanced usability and functionality in various applications from basic navigation to advanced gaming experiences.

Price and Availability

At launch, the iPad Pro 9.7 was priced at approximately 690 EUR. However, since its discontinuation, the price may vary depending on its availability in the market today, typically through third-party sellers or refurbished units.

Overall, the Apple iPad Pro 9.7 (2016) remains an impressive device that balances performance, design, and functionality effectively. Its introduction of features like the Apple Pencil compatibility and Smart Keyboard support makes it versatile, catering to both casual users and professionals alike. Despite being an older model, its capable hardware and subsequent software updates ensure it continues to provide a relevant, reliable experience.