The most affordable iPad from Apple could finally enhance its performance.
The 2026 iPad focuses primarily on performance rather than design.
Apple's entry-level iPad has traditionally offered good value, but its performance has not been its strongest aspect, with the Pro models equipped with more powerful M-series chips.
However, the 2026 iPad may finally receive the performance upgrade it requires.
According to a report, the upcoming 12th Gen iPad is expected to come with Apple's A18 chipset, representing a considerable upgrade over the current A16 chip. This could be one of the most significant enhancements Apple has introduced to its base iPad in years.
What to anticipate from Apple's 2026 iPad?
Details emerged from an ESR tech listing for a ‘paper-feel’ screen protector designed for the new iPad's 11-inch display, which also leaked some processor information.
The major change is the A18 chip, which could offer over a 20% increase in performance compared to the previous model, with single-core performance potentially improving by up to 30%. This represents a substantial advancement for a device predominantly aimed at students, casual users, and first-time iPad buyers. With the A18 Pro powering Apple's most affordable MacBook, the advanced 3nm chip featuring a 6-core CPU is expected to enhance multitasking and provide smoother daily performance.
Apple Intelligence may finally enhance the budget iPad.
It's not merely about the improved chipset; the upgrade also suggests advancements in AI.
The new iPad might come with 8GB of RAM, allowing for Apple Intelligence features to be supported, which are currently unavailable on the basic iPad. Apple has been integrating AI functions across its devices, and this update could finally align the entry-level iPad with its higher-end counterparts.
No visual redesign expected.
If you are hoping for significant aesthetic changes, the 2026 iPad might not meet those expectations. Apple appears to prioritize performance enhancements, as the listing indicates a design similar to the 2025 iPad.
Tech journalist and product reviewer Sean specializes in consumer electronics, having covered a wide range of flagship devices.
Apple is reportedly preparing to launch a new entry-level iPad in a few months, which will feature a long-overdue chip upgrade that includes Apple Intelligence.
The most economical iPad is set for a significant refresh soon, with changes that seem to go beyond a mere silicon upgrade. A recent report by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman indicates that Apple is on track to unveil a refreshed entry-level iPad during the first half of 2026, coinciding with the iOS 26.4 release period, which runs until May 2026.
In other news, Android tablets and foldables will soon receive a convenient Chrome upgrade.
Google is introducing a bookmarks bar for Chrome users on Android tablets and foldables (essentially large-screen devices) with Chrome version 146. This feature has been familiar to desktop users for years.
Similar to the desktop version, the bookmarks bar will display below the omnibox, covering the entire width of the screen and showcasing favicons along with site names, with a right-facing chevron for overflow. A long press on a bookmark will reveal its full URL.
Additionally, Samsung's Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra keyboard is quite expensive, putting it out of reach for many, rendering even Apple's pricing more attractive by comparison.
With its new Pro Keyboard, the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra seems to meet the demands of heavy tablet users, though the price tag of $338 may be a point of contention. Launching at MWC 2026 and now available on Samsung's Korean store, the Pro Keyboard easily attaches to the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra's 14.6-inch AMOLED display and offers a robust laptop-like experience.
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The most affordable iPad from Apple could finally enhance its performance.
The upcoming budget iPad from Apple may see a significant performance enhancement with the inclusion of the A18 chip, which would provide quicker speeds and improved AI capabilities.