Apple's most affordable iPad may finally improve in terms of performance.
The 2026 iPad is focused on performance rather than design.
Apple’s entry-level iPad has typically emphasized value, while performance has not been its strong point. The Pro models have always delivered significantly better performance thanks to their M-series chips.
However, the 2026 iPad may be set to receive the upgrade it needs.
Recent reports indicate that the forthcoming 12th Gen iPad will be equipped with Apple’s A18 chipset, representing a notable enhancement in performance compared to the current model’s A16 chip. This could be one of the most substantial updates that Apple has introduced to its basic iPad in several years.
What should we anticipate from Apple’s 2026 iPad?
The information was disclosed in an ESR tech listing for a ‘paper-feel’ screen protector designed for the new iPad’s 11-inch display, which also leaked specifics about the processor.
The significant new feature is the A18 chip, which could offer a performance boost of over 20% from the previous generation, with single-core improvements potentially reaching as high as 30%. This is a considerable advancement for a device typically targeted at students, casual users, and first-time iPad purchasers. The A18 Pro, which powers Apple’s most affordable MacBook, features a capable 3nm chip with a 6-core CPU that should enhance multitasking and ensure smoother everyday performance.
Apple Intelligence may finally reach the least expensive iPad.
This upgrade is not solely about the enhanced chip. The broader implication of this upgrade is the introduction of AI.
The new iPad might come equipped with 8GB of RAM, allowing it to support Apple Intelligence features, which are currently absent from the base iPad. Apple has been integrating AI functionalities across its devices, and this upgrade could elevate the base iPad to be on par with Apple’s higher-end offerings.
No redesign anticipated.
However, if you were expecting significant visual changes, the 2026 iPad may not meet those expectations. Apple appears to be concentrating on boosting performance, as the listing reveals a design that closely resembles that of the 2025 iPad.
Apple seems to have an updated entry-level iPad ready for release soon.
Apple's basic iPad is set to receive a long-awaited chip upgrade, and this time, Apple Intelligence will accompany the new features.
The most affordable iPad is preparing for a meaningful refresh in the coming months, with changes that go beyond just a silicon update. A recent report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that since last year, Apple has been planning to launch an updated entry-level iPad in the first half of 2026, coinciding with the iOS 26.4 release window that extends until May 2026.
In other news, Google is introducing a bookmarks bar for Chrome users on Android tablets and foldables in version 146. This feature, already available on desktop Chrome, adds convenience by appearing below the omnibox and showcasing favicons and site names across the entire screen width.
Additionally, Samsung's Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra has unveiled a new Pro Keyboard that has garnered praise among tablet users, although its price tag of $338 has raised eyebrows. Unveiled at MWC 2026 and now discreetly available in Samsung's Korean store, the Pro Keyboard connects to the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra, offering a laptop-like experience.
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Apple's most affordable iPad may finally improve in terms of performance.
Apple's upcoming budget iPad may receive a significant performance boost with the A18 chip, resulting in enhanced speeds and AI functionalities.