As early as last June, foreign media commented that Apple iPad Pro became more like Microsoft Surface Pro. As the main promoter of the 2-in-1 PC concept, it provides important reference for iPadOS to introduce cursor and touchpad support. Today, Apple quietly announced the refreshed 2020 iPad Pro product line and brought the magical Magic Keyboard accessory. In addition to the new hinge that supports multi-angle support, it is also equipped with a touchpad.
Although people expect the Magic Keyboard to catch up with the Type Cover, the Microsoft Surface Pro stand that can adjust the inclination angle still has unparalleled advantages.
Aside from Apple ‘s “misconceptions” about the shape of the 2-in-1 device, the new iPad Pro + Magic Keyboard may still have a certain impact on Microsoft Surface Pro sales.
Of course, Apple has other obstacles to overcome. After all, iPadOS still lacks many advanced features compared to Windows. For most current iPad Pro users, the difference in performance is quite significant.
Over time, these problems will eventually be solved. At the same time, Microsoft is working to make desktop operating systems more suitable for lightweight computing devices such as Surface Pro X.
Not surprisingly, the new iPad Pro once again raises the cost of equipment for Apple users:
Take the 256GB 12.9-inch iPad Pro as an example ($ 1100), the total price with Apple Pencil (+ $ 130) and Magic Keyboard (+ $ 350) is $ 1580 (about 11,000 RMB).
For comparison, the total price of a 256GB Surface Pro 7 ($ 1100) plus Surface Pen stylus (+ $ 100) and Type Cover keyboard case (+ $ 160) is $ 1260 (about 8916 RMB).
Interestingly, the Surface Pro X is priced at $ 1,570 (about 11,000 RMB). Compared to the non-cellular version of the iPad Pro, the difference is only $ 10.
Finally, when Apple finally caught up with the trend of two-in-one devices, Microsoft was already actively brewing a new generation of foldable and dual-screen devices.