Overcoming the RAM limitations on the iPad Pro, particularly the 5 GB limit per app, requires a combination of software optimizations and strategic usage. Here are some detailed workarounds and considerations:
1. Optimize Apps for Better Memory Usage
Developers can optimize their apps to use memory more efficiently. Techniques include:- Using ARC (Automatic Reference Counting): This helps manage memory automatically by deallocating unused objects, reducing manual memory management efforts[2].
- Avoiding Retain Cycles: Use weak or unowned references to prevent objects from holding strong references to each other, which can prevent deallocation[2].
2. Utilize Virtual Memory Swap
iPadOS 16 introduced a virtual memory swap feature that can extend available memory up to 16 GB by using storage space on M1 devices. This can aid multitasking and app stability, though it may not directly increase the RAM available to individual apps[7].3. Close Unused Apps
Regularly closing unused apps can help manage memory more effectively. This is especially important if you're running multiple memory-intensive applications simultaneously.4. Free Up Storage Space
Ensure your iPad has enough free storage space. While this doesn't directly increase RAM, it can help prevent the system from becoming overly constrained and force-quitting apps due to storage limitations. Use built-in storage management tools to remove unnecessary content[5].5. External Processing
For tasks that require more memory than the iPad can provide, consider processing data externally. For example, apps like Revopoint suggest saving projects without fusion on mobile devices and processing them on computers later[3].6. Update to Latest iPadOS
Ensure you're running the latest version of iPadOS, as updates often include improvements to memory management and app performance. For instance, iPadOS 15 increased the RAM limit for apps on certain models[3].7. Clear RAM
While not directly increasing available RAM, clearing RAM can help manage memory by closing background apps. This can be done by force-quitting apps or using accessibility features to simulate a RAM reset[4][9].8. Consider Hardware Upgrades
If possible, upgrading to models with more RAM (like the 1 TB and 2 TB iPad Pro models with 16 GB RAM) can allow more apps to run simultaneously, even if individual apps still face the same RAM limits[1].These strategies can help mitigate the impact of RAM limitations on the iPad Pro, though they may not fully overcome them. Developers and users alike must adapt to these constraints to maximize productivity on these devices.
Citations:[1] https://9to5mac.com/2021/05/28/ipad-pro-ram-limits/
[2] https://shakuro.com/blog/ios-memory-management
[3] https://forum.revopoint3d.com/t/ipad-pro-2021-out-of-memory/17063
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHWGQGBB9qE
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwjcYyCneNc
[6] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/250252652
[7] https://forum.nomadsculpt.com/t/did-ipados-already-allow-16gb-of-ram-usage-for-the-latest-ipads/7026
[8] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/250809278
[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyWkU0gpisw