Apple's iPad Pro has always been at the forefront of tablet innovation, but with the release of the iPad Pro (M4), some decisions have left users and critics scratching their heads. Here are five peculiar choices Apple made with the iPad Pro (M4):

#### 1. **Lack of Physical Ports**

Despite being marketed as a professional device, the iPad Pro (M4) continues to offer a very limited range of physical ports. With only a single USB-C port, users are often forced to rely on dongles and adapters for basic connectivity needs like external storage, displays, and peripherals. This decision is baffling given the Pro moniker, which suggests a more versatile, work-ready device.

#### 2. **No Headphone Jack**

Continuing its trend, Apple has omitted the headphone jack from the iPad Pro (M4). While this might align with their push towards a wireless future, it remains an odd choice for a device meant for professionals who might prefer wired audio solutions for tasks such as audio editing and professional music production. This necessitates the use of USB-C to 3.5mm adapters, which can be inconvenient and easy to lose.

#### 3. **Proprietary Accessories**

Apple’s insistence on proprietary accessories like the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard is another peculiar decision. These accessories, while high-quality, are expensive and limit users' choices. The inability to use third-party alternatives without losing functionality can be frustrating, especially when considering the high cost of these peripherals, which significantly add to the overall expense of the iPad Pro setup.

#### 4. **Software Limitations**

While the iPad Pro (M4) boasts powerful hardware with the M4 chip, it is still limited by iPadOS. Users often find that the software doesn't fully leverage the hardware's capabilities, particularly when compared to macOS or Windows. Multitasking, file management, and support for professional-grade applications are areas where iPadOS falls short, making the iPad Pro (M4) feel underutilized despite its potential.

#### 5. **No Major Design Overhaul**

The iPad Pro (M4) retains a design almost identical to its predecessors. While the design is sleek and modern, it’s surprising that Apple hasn’t introduced any significant changes or improvements, such as more durable materials, enhanced ergonomics, or innovative new features. This has led to criticism that the M4 iteration feels more like a spec bump rather than a truly new product, leaving some users underwhelmed.

### Conclusion

The iPad Pro (M4) remains a powerful and capable device, but these five decisions have raised questions about Apple's direction and priorities. While the hardware advancements are impressive, the limitations and peculiar choices in design and functionality suggest that there is still room for improvement in making the iPad Pro the ultimate professional tool.