iPad Pro IPad Pro for first time iOS user

[AMessy]

I had a relative ask me to get them set up with an iPad recently. This person is in their 70’s and has not previously owned a smartphone or computer. They want to be able to communicate with friends via email and iMessage, FaceTime with family, watch YouTube videos, and possibly some light internet browsing.

It seems obvious to me that the current 9.7” iPad would be above and beyond what they would need for those tasks. I plan to have them wait until the end of March to see if they base update is infact updated as the rumors seem to hint at if I decide to go the non-Pro route.

However, the reason for this post is to determine if the iPad Pro would hinder the experience any due to added complexity. Not taking into account the cost difference, I think they would notice the bigger screen of the 11” Pro as well as the nicer FaceTime camera. I also think it would provide them with a little bit more “wow” factor with the screen and design.

My concern however is that the tiny bezels may cause havoc when they are trying to hold it. I don’t want them to get frustrated every time they try to use it because they inadvertently cause actions. I don’t see them having an issue “swiping up” though I do think a home bottom might be a better.

Has anybody whose used both the new iPad Pro and iPad with a home button noticed any issues with handling of the iPad itself.

Again, I know the standard iPad more than fits the bill. I just want to make sure the Pro is isn’t a worse option for someone just getting into an iPad.

 

[blasto2236]

It definitely isn’t a worse option, it is nicer in every single way than the 9.7”.

Having said that, it is almost certainly more iPad than this particular user seems to need. For someone who’s never used a smartphone or laptop, there’s plenty of “wow factor” in the 9.7” iPad. I don’t think grandma or grandpa needs a workhorse of a tablet to be impressed.

iOS has world-class palm rejection, so I have yet to have an issue with accidental gestures/input in the month I’ve had my 11” iPad Pro. This has been the same pretty much across all iPad models. In fact, the side bezels of the 11” when held in portrait are slightly thicker than on previous iPad models, since it is now uniform all the way around. They figured out the accidental input/palm rejection problem a long time ago, really dating back to the first iPad, but when they slimmed things down for the Air models they took it to another level.

So in short: I don’t think the iPad Pro 11” would be too complicated, but certainly the additional horsepower, features, etc would largely go unused by the user you have described. Seems a waste of the additional money to me.

 

[MisterSavage]

I don't understand why you would wait for an upcoming model when a current model would be more than sufficient. I think if you did get the pro that Face ID would much less frustrating than Touch ID (at least it was for me). If you're worried about how they'll hold it get them a nice case, stand, or lap pillow (or all of those).

 

[AMessy]

there’s plenty of “wow factor” in the 9.7” iPad. I don’t think grandma or grandpa needs a workhorse of a tablet to be impressed.

iOS has world-class palm rejection, so I have yet to have an issue with accidental gestures/input in the month I’ve had my 11” iPad Pro.

That’s a really good point regarding the “wow factor”, I guess I need to look at it more from their perspective and not from my own.

Also your response regarding palm rejection answers the exact question my long winded initial post was trying to ask. Thanks

I don't understand why you would wait for an upcoming model when a current model would be more than sufficient.

I guess only because I’m used to waiting for the latest and greatest when I buy my own Apple products. Thinking about it I really can’t dispute your comment.

 

[MisterSavage]

I guess only because I’m used to waiting for the latest and greatest when I buy my own Apple products. Thinking about it I really can’t dispute your comment.

I'm the same way when buying products for myself but in this case I think you might be better off saving some money.

 

[bevsb2]

I would talk to the relative about the differences in iPads and if money isn't an issue he/she may want the latest and greatest. The bigger screen on the 11" Pro is beautiful and easier on older eyes.

 

[AMessy]

Thought I’d follow-up for those that took the time to answer.

I visited my relative in question this afternoon and laid out the differences between the current iPad Pro and 9.7” iPad. I also let them fiddle with my iPhone X and another relatives iPhone 6S.

The outcome was they abosolutely wanted the 11” iPad Pro after the explanation of differences and seeing how the interface worked. I told them I felt guilty even bringing the Pro model into the discussions due to the price difference, but they said they weren’t concerned as they initially thought it would cost more anyways.

The real kicker is not only is their iPad way over powered, their internet providers starting speed is 100mb/s. My family and I live out in the sticks and have to rely on tethering to our iPhones for internet access, we’d jump through hoops for 1/4 of that bandwidth!

 

[Davefevs]

Is it possible to take them into an Apple Store or another retailer so they could have a play?

 

[AMessy]

Is it possible to take them into an Apple Store or another retailer so they could have a play?

Not easily, the nearest Apple Store is a 2-1/2 hour drive and the nearest retail store which would likely have each on display is an hour drive at least.

The best alternative I could come up with was to let them play with each type of iPhone (Touch ID & Face ID).

 

[blasto2236]

I visited my relative in question this afternoon and laid out the differences between the current iPad Pro and 9.7” iPad. I also let them fiddle with my iPhone X and another relatives iPhone 6S.

The outcome was they abosolutely wanted the 11” iPad Pro after the explanation of differences and seeing how the interface worked.

This is a brilliant way to do it, glad that worked!