Last updated: August 2026
If you are searching for iPad Pro 10.5 contract deals, it is worth knowing up front that this model is discontinued. Apple released the 10.5-inch iPad Pro in 2017 and retired it in 2018 when the 11-inch model replaced it. South African networks stopped carrying it years ago, and any unit available now is second-hand or refurbished.
That does not mean the search is wasted. Plenty of people arrive here because they own one and want to know whether to keep it, or because they want something the 10.5-inch size gave them. This page covers both.
What the iPad Pro 10.5 was
The 10.5-inch iPad Pro was an important model. It introduced ProMotion, Apple’s 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, which made scrolling and Apple Pencil input noticeably smoother than anything before it. It also moved to a slimmer bezel while keeping the Home button and Touch ID, which some people still prefer to Face ID.
It was well built and it aged reasonably well, but it is now a device from 2017. It has reached the end of its iPadOS update path, which means no new features and, more importantly, no continuing security updates.
Should you keep the one you have?
If the battery still holds a useful charge and your apps still run, a 10.5-inch iPad Pro remains fine for reading, video and browsing. Where it starts to fall down is app compatibility, since developers progressively drop support for older iPadOS versions, and security, since it no longer receives patches.
| Question | What it tells you |
|---|---|
| Do your key apps still update? | If apps have stopped receiving updates on the device, replacement is close. |
| Is it still getting security updates? | If not, avoid using it for banking or sensitive work. |
| How is the battery? | A 2017 battery is well past its rated cycle life. A replacement may be cheaper than a new device. |
| Do you use the Apple Pencil? | The original Pencil still works, but Pencil Pro features require newer iPads. |
Current alternatives
Alternative models
- iPad Air — the closest match in size and role, and the natural successor for most 10.5-inch Pro owners. Considerably faster, with a modern update window.
- iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) — the direct descendant of the 10.5-inch Pro line, with an OLED display and far more performance.
- Standard iPad — the cheapest route back into a current device if you mainly read, browse and stream.
The iPad contract deals page covers what is currently available.
How tablet contracts work locally
One thing that catches people out: only cellular tablet models can go on a network contract, because they take a SIM. Wi-Fi-only models are bought outright or on retailer credit. If you are replacing a Wi-Fi 10.5-inch Pro, check which version any offer refers to.
| Provider | What to check |
|---|---|
| Vodacom | Which cellular tablets are stocked and the bundled data allocation. |
| MTN | Whether the offer is a contract or device financing, and the total across the term. |
| Telkom | Tablet data pricing against a standalone data SIM. |
| Cell C | Tablet plan availability and local roaming arrangements. |
For the wider picture, see contract deals South Africa.
What to check before applying
- Cellular or Wi-Fi. Only cellular models can go on a network contract.
- Storage tier. iPad storage cannot be expanded, so choose carefully at purchase.
- Total cost. Instalment multiplied by term, plus once-off fees.
- RICA. Cellular tablets take a SIM, so proof of identity and address are required.
- Credit and affordability. Providers run credit and affordability checks, and approval is not guaranteed.
See apply online for the process.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still get an iPad Pro 10.5 on contract?
No. It was discontinued in 2018 and South African networks no longer carry it. Any available unit is second-hand or refurbished and sold outright.
Does the iPad Pro 10.5 still get iPadOS updates?
It has reached the end of its update path, so it no longer receives new iPadOS versions or ongoing security patches.
What replaced the 10.5-inch iPad Pro?
The 11-inch iPad Pro replaced it in 2018, and the iPad Air now occupies a similar position for most buyers.
Is it still worth using?
For reading, video and browsing it can still be serviceable, but it is not a good choice for banking or sensitive work now that security updates have ended.
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Pricing, availability, stock, coverage and approval criteria change regularly and are set by the provider. Confirm all current terms directly with the network or retailer before applying.