Getting an iPad Pro in Times of Pandemic

Before summer ended, I finally bought an iPad Pro 12.9 inch (256 GB) . . . not on a whim.

I’ve been saving for about a year for an iPad but I ended up buying more accessories (Apple Pencil and OtterBox Case).

Shopping in this time is somewhat unusual. For one, online shopping is fast contrary to the delivery. I’m still waiting for T-shirts I ordered a month ago.

Shopping in Apple Store for the First Time

When I bought my first iPad (Mini 2) ages ago, I went to Staples.

So I decided to shop in store for an iPad Pro 11; this was the plan but ended up buying the iPad Pro 12.9 instead.

I live closer to an Apple Store so that’s where I went but that was my last option.

Usually I would shop at Best Buy, Staples, or London Drugs (where I bought my Sony a6000).

But we are dealing with a worldwide medical concern and school is about to start.

So iPad sales are skyrocketing. Stocks are sold out. Or you can order online and pick it up in a few days.

It was time to visit an Apple Store which I avoid even prior to pandemic because it’s best not to tempt oneself while saving for a costly future purchase.

I don’t want to ruin my budget and eat beans for weeks but I still do because I’m a vegetarian. Lentil is my favourite.

The Queue, Mask, and the Extras

Everyone I saw in the mall was wearing a mask.

We have a bylaw implemented that started in August; it’s mandatory to wear a mask in public places.

As I walked towards my destination, I saw people waiting in line. I’m happy to see that people are patiently waiting and perhaps saving because of the lack of time to be in a queue.

Well I devoted a lot of time to buy an iPad Pro. I had to wear a disposable mask provided by a staff although I was already wearing a washable mask.

I went in and was helped out by a young staff.

My initial thought was I would go in the store and pay the costly gadget and walked out with a hefty bill on my credit card.

An Apple Store experience is way different than I thought.

We had a chat. Longer chat than a usual sales talk.

It’s more of a one-on-one tutorial which I was thrilled to experience before buying a product I have no idea how to use (no more home button).

She was using an iPad 12.9 inch and mine was an 11 inch.

We did basic gestures and wrote on Notes.

While on it, I realized I better get the bigger iPad Pro because I want to learn digital sketching and calligraphy.

Might as well add Apple Pencil on the bill because it’s out of stock in stores (we checked online).

Before I leave, I splurged more with OtterBox Symmetry Series 360 case. There’s not a lot of choices.

Magic Keyboard act as a case and well a keyboard. But there’s no way I’m going to walk out of the store with it.

I will have to do a lot of research whether I need a Magic Keyboard, Logitech Folio Case, Brydge or opt for a typical Bluetooth keyboard from Logitech, Satechi, or Keychron.

Note: You can download and order on the Apple Store app and have it deliver to your place or pick it up in a store.

How Much Did I Pay?

I realized I’ve been rambling about my shopping experience and haven’t get into the details of my expenses. So here it is in Canadian dollars.

1. iPad Pro 12.9 Wifi 256GB Space Gray – $1,429.00
2. Recycling fee – $1.20
3. Apple Pencil 2nd Generation – $169.00
4. OtterBox Symmetry Series 360 iPad Pro 12.9 – $99.95

Subtotal – $1,699.15
GST/HST – $84.96
Total – $1,784.11

Thank goodness the province of Alberta has only one tax for consumers and that is goods and services tax (GST).

I could have use the money paid for tax to buy Logitech MX Anywhere 3 or Keychron K3. These two gadgets will complete my iPad setup.

In spite of indulging my geeky side with such shopping spree, I knew it’s all going to be put to good use. (Why am I using many “good” words in this post?)

For bloggers like me, don’t forget to add it to your business expenses for the income tax filing next year.

Apple TV+ and AppleCare+

Should I even care? But it’s nice to try something new for free. For one year.

I can watch on Apple TV+ for one year. Why did Apple has to do this?

I don’t think I need another streaming platform till I get to try Apple TV+ on my iPad Pro 12.

My main streaming platform is Netflix. Occasionally I move over on Kanopy for free, thanks to Calgary Public Library.

It’s such a treat to try what Apple TV+ has to offer with no string attach.

But I do hope that I’ll get a reminder if my subscription is about to end or else I’ll be charged $5.99 per month until I cancel my subscription. Will I?

I have a year to think about it.

On the contrary, I don’t have to think about not subscribing to AppleCare+; I never have the need for it.

After using four iPhones and two iPads, I learn to handle things with extra extra extra care so I don’t have to pay extra to cover an avoidable gadget mishap.

I’m not saying I am always graceful like a ballerina that bend and twist at the right moment.

I am clumsy and dropped my phone several times on my bed or on my face (still browsing though sleepy) but never my iPad. Ever.

My precious iPad. It’s my home theatre, office, library, retreat, and sanctuary. My life depends on it.

Sparking Creativity

I’m excited to keep learning new things like calligraphy and Procreate using iPad Pro 2020.

My iPad will keep me optimistic and not dwell on what’s going on with the world.

Don’t get me wrong though. I do care and hope for everyone to be safe and healthy but I have to continue living with positivity and creativity. It’s a challenge . . . every day.

To create something that can make someone smile unknowingly is the best happy pill.

What have you created using your iPad? Did you have a hard time choosing between 11 and 12.9 sizes?