Apple is reportedly preparing to launch a new entry-level iPad in the coming months.
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Apple’s budget-friendly iPad is set for a significant upgrade, and this time it will include Apple Intelligence.
Apple’s most economical iPad is expected to receive a substantial refresh in the coming months. This update appears to go beyond merely upgrading the silicon.
A recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman indicates that the company has been preparing to unveil a revamped entry-level iPad in the first half of 2026, coinciding with the iOS 26.4 release period, which extends until May 2026.
The basic iPad will feature Apple Intelligence support thanks to the A18 chip.
The anticipated entry-level iPad is shifting from Apple’s A16 chip to the advanced A18 chip. This transition means the device will operate faster and will also include support for Apple Intelligence.
Previously, Apple’s suite of AI-driven features was exclusive to the higher-end iPad Air, iPad mini, and iPad Pro models.
Consequently, millions of value-oriented iPad users have been unable to access AI functionalities like Writing Tools, Smart Reply, Image Playground, Image Wand, Genmoji, Clean Up, and Math Notes. Some of these features, such as Image Playground and Image Wand, may not be as beneficial, while others like Writing Tools and Math Notes could be utilized regularly.
Why was there a delay?
Although Apple intended to launch the new entry-level iPad alongside the M4 iPad Air, that plan fell through. The report cites reasons such as chip shortages, insufficient depletion of existing inventory, or deliberate changes in marketing strategy.
Despite the hold-up, Gurman asserts that the 12th-generation iPad is “ready to go” and will be released this year. Featuring the A18 chip, the iPad is expected to perform faster, support all available Apple Intelligence features (including the new Siri potentially debuting later this year), and offer even greater value to consumers.
Introducing Apple Intelligence to the base iPad significantly expands Apple’s AI ecosystem reach.
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Apple is reportedly preparing to launch a new entry-level iPad in the coming months.
Apple's most user-friendly iPad is expected to receive a significant upgrade in 2026, replacing its outdated chip with the A18 — marking it as the first entry-level iPad to feature Apple Intelligence.