The Anticipated Arrival of the Entry-Level iPad

Apple recently unveiled a slew of new hardware, including the latest iPhone 17e and M4 iPad Air. However, one notable omission was a new entry-level iPad.

Rumors had been circulating about a refresh to the standard iPad, which was expected to debut this month. While some may consider the new iPad to be “overdue,” given the two-year gap before the current 11th-generation model was released in 2025, it remains the only mainstream Apple product without Apple Intelligence.

The 2025 iPad surprised many by featuring an A16 chip, the same chip found in the iPhone 15. This choice positioned the device one step behind in terms of supporting Apple Intelligence. With nowhere to go but up, it is likely that the upcoming 12th-generation iPad will boast at least an A18 chip.

Speculation suggests that Apple may opt for the A18 chip over the A17 Pro, as using a “Pro” chip in a $349 tablet could send the wrong message. The move to the A16 chip last year may have been to differentiate the iPad mini, which had been using the same chip. Reports also hinted at the possibility of an M1 chip being used to align with the full-sized iPads, which have transitioned to using the same chips found in Apple’s Macs.

The introduction of the A18 Pro-powered MacBook Neo may have influenced the delayed launch of the new iPad. Apple may have wanted to highlight the MacBook Neo as its new budget superstar, with a starting price of $599. Despite this, a new iPad is still expected to be released this spring, following the excitement surrounding the MacBook Neo’s launch.

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the new iPad is likely to feature an A18 chip, rather than the newer A19 chip found in the iPhone 17e. This decision may be strategic, as Apple aims to differentiate the iPad from the MacBook Neo while maintaining a lower price point.

Gurman hinted at potential delays in the iPad’s launch, citing reasons such as chip shortages, inventory issues, and marketing decisions. However, he remains confident that the hardware is ready for release and could arrive before Apple’s June Worldwide Developers Conference.

The upcoming iPad release is expected to be a minor update, similar to the recent M4 iPad Air refresh. Changes may include upgrading to the A18 chip and incorporating Apple’s new N1 Wi-Fi/Bluetooth and C1X modem chip.

Overall, while the new iPad’s launch may have been delayed, it is still on track for release in the near future. Fans can expect a modest upgrade that aligns with Apple’s current product lineup. Change the following