Apple is facing criticism for intentionally limiting the usable RAM in some of its M4 iPad Pro models, despite the devices containing more physical memory. Users who purchased the 8GB RAM version of the M4 iPad Pro discovered through teardowns that the tablets are equipped with 12GB of RAM, with 4GB seemingly disabled by Apple. This decision is seen as a tactic to maintain product tiering and encourage upgrades to higher-priced models, a practice drawing comparisons to historical instances of companies destroying excess inventory rather than lowering prices. The controversy is amplified as newer, lower-priced iPad Air models and updated iPad Pro models now come standard with 12GB of RAM, and some advanced AI features announced at WWDC require at least 12GB of unified memory, potentially excluding these earlier M4 iPad Pro users from future capabilities. AI
IMPACT Limits on RAM could restrict access to advanced on-device AI features, potentially segmenting users based on hardware purchased years prior.
RANK_REASON This is a product-related controversy about hardware configuration and software limitations, not a new frontier release or significant industry shift.
- Apple Worldwide Developers Conference
- iPad Air
- M4 iPad Pro
- MacRumors
- Micron
- Siri
- Tim Cook
- Tom's Hardware
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