The standard iPad has significantly improved, but it lacks one major feature.

      Apple / Apple

      Following today’s announcement of the iPad Air, Apple has also revealed that the base iPad now features double the starting storage and is powered by the A16 chip. This upgrade significantly enhances performance, speed, and battery life; according to Apple, users can anticipate a 30% increase in performance compared to the iPad utilizing the A13 Bionic chip.

      However, these upgrades come with a catch. Despite the improved hardware, Apple Intelligence is not included. Given that much of Apple’s recent marketing emphasizes AI, this omission is surprising, but the reasoning is clear: the A16 chip contains only 6GB of RAM, while 8GB is required for Apple Intelligence.

      The absence of Apple Intelligence appears to be a missed opportunity, especially since the A16 boasts a Neural Engine that surpasses even the M2 chip. While it could have been reconfigured with additional RAM to meet the requirement, not all users may find Apple Intelligence essential.

      Another notable limitation for iPad users is that the base iPad is compatible only with the first-generation Apple Pencil and the Apple Pencil (USB-C). The second-generation Apple Pencil offers several attractive enhancements, but for now, users must continue with the original version.

      Despite these limitations, the enhanced speed makes entry-level iPads more appealing than ever. Those looking for productivity will experience quicker responses and improved performance, while mobile gamers will benefit from the enhanced hardware’s ability to maintain steady frame rates. The pricing remains unchanged. The iPad now presents an even better value proposition, standing strong against similarly priced Android tablets. Consequently, many schools are investing in entry-level iPads for students. This is not Apple's first attempt to target educational institutions; in 2018, the company launched the 9.7-inch iPad at a school in Chicago.

      Whether you are a student or simply searching for an affordable tablet, the iPad has become an even more attractive option than before.

      Patrick Hearn covers smart home technology, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, smart light bulbs, and more.

      The significant Fusion camera upgrade in the iPhone 16e is missing some features.

      The iPhone 16e heralds a new phase for Apple’s smartphone lineup, which may not necessarily benefit customers who are paying for it. The "SE” series has been phased out, color choices have taken a backseat, and an underdeveloped AI has taken the spotlight. While there are some minor upgrades, the most prominent feature is the new 2-in-1 Fusion camera system.

      Essentially, this means the iPhone 16e includes a 48-megapixel rear camera — an upgrade from the 12-megapixel version of the iPhone SE — which can also capture 2x zoom shots. It’s impressive to see the iPhone 16e matching the 48-megapixel rear camera of the iPhone 16.

      I attempted to use a stylus with location tracking, which made me lose interest in the Apple Pencil.

      I’ve been part of the iPad Pro ecosystem for quite some time, primarily due to professional requirements rather than personal needs. It’s a rather costly scenario, to be honest.

      The downside? Finding a competitive, cost-effective alternative feels like embarking on a blind purchase with regrets to follow. The stylus market is no different, where trusting almost any other brand often comes with some caveat.

      I compared the cameras of the Galaxy S25 Plus and the iPhone 16 Pro; one clearly outperformed the other.

      Smartphones have been increasing in size for years, but this has also spurred a new wave of smaller phones designed for those who prefer something more pocket-friendly. When I mention smaller, I don’t mean Mini — although I’d love to see Mini phones return — but rather more comfortable for one-handed use.

      Both Samsung and Apple have played crucial roles in establishing this trend, tailoring their offerings to ensure there’s an ideal smartphone for every customer. However, their strategies differ significantly regarding the ideal smartphone lineup.