iPad Pro as a Laptop Replacement

Here are some thoughts on using iPad Pro as a replacement for a BYOD or a "corporate" laptop:

1. Lack of access to “home” directory/files. Replacement using Dropbox-like service needs migration of existing files. If laptop still continues to be used, then need to change laptop to use the same file service. Office 365 users have 1TB of OneDrive space, and with Office 365 available for most operating systems (including iOS and Android), it is the best available package of office productivity tools and online storage.
2. You would need new accessories for iPad Pro. Casual bag, work bag, cases all need to be changed (if you were previously using iPad). Connection cables to projectors, power cables also need to be changed (you’ll need more lightning cables). Spare batteries may be required.
3. Use of keyboard with iPad Pro is good. But iPad Pro typically needs a case to offer protection. Cases with keyboard is bulky and may require changing out to a lighter case when keyboard is not needed for an extensive period of time. Best solution is a portable bluetooth keyboard like TextBlade (still waiting for shipment). Apple Smart Keyboard for iPad Pro is expensive. The same price probably can get you two (cheap) covers and two bluetooth keyboards.
4. Size does matter. Many iPad apps assume the iPad Air 2 screen to be the defacto screen size. Applications interface look enlarged when viewed on iPad Pro, hence becoming awkward to use. iPad Pro may not be a complete replacement for a personal iPad Air used primarily for content consumption. However, iPad Pro has good audio output and the large screen size is a pleasure for video viewing.
5. Use of Pencil is interesting as an additional but optional input. May need to use both fingers and pencil in many apps. Many note taking apps are available but traditional iPad mode of input (touch, multi-touch, keyboard) may interfere with the pencil way of input.
6. Applications are not equal across the platforms. Generally most applications work similarly across the platforms, but habits associated with laptop applications may pose resistance or obstacles to smooth migration to iPad Pro version.
7. In terms of networking, iPad Pro with 4G wins hands down. The flexibility with 4G and Wifi makes it easy to get connected and stay connected. Unfortunately for me, iPad Pro is not supported for use within my company’s intranet (I still have public Internet access within office environment). That prevents me from accessing intranet sites using iPad Pro. It’s not merely a network authentication issue, but it’s more the lack of http proxy with exception support in iOS (proxy access for Internet and no proxy for intranet) that makes it difficult to use iPad Pro in my intranet environment. Hence I still need to use office laptop for some situations. Your mileage may differ.
8. Enterprise acceptance is probably the most important factor. Although BYOD and Mac support is available in many organizations, support for corporate iOS Applications is probably going to be limited to web applications and BYOD-type applications. Security compliance is also a reason why iPad Pro is going to be discouraged, much like the days when Mac OSX support is not widely available in enterprise environments. Most security endpoint tools would not apply to iPad Pro, but enterprise security team is probably too comfortable with their security tools and the monitoring capability.

Hope this will help stimulate discussion on this hot new product from Apple.