Apple’s budget iPad gets a 2026 refresh: A18 performance, 8 GB RAM, Apple Intelligence, Wi‑Fi 7 via N1, and efficient C1 modem—same $349 price and spring release.
© A. Krivonosov
Apple is preparing an update to its most affordable tablet—the 12th‑generation iPad—slated for spring 2026. While a sweeping overhaul isn’t on the cards, a handful of meaningful upgrades could make it a more appealing choice for anyone seeking a low‑priced yet capable Apple slate.
Based on current information, Apple doesn’t plan to rework the exterior. The iPad will retain its familiar 11‑inch display, wide bezels, and the side‑mounted Touch ID button. The budget line last saw a visual refresh with the 10th generation, so the 2026 model will likely stick with the same layout—a pragmatic decision for a device that leans on value.
It will also remain the thickest in the family at around 7 mm. The screen is expected to be a LED Retina panel without ProMotion, P3 color, or full lamination—consistent distinctions between the base iPad and pricier models. Fresh, brighter finishes are on the table: today’s palette includes blue, pink, silver, and yellow, and next year’s lineup may add new shades.
No notable changes are anticipated for the cameras or I/O: expect the same modules, a USB‑C port, and compatibility with existing accessories, including Apple Pencil. Stability here keeps costs in check and avoids accessory churn.
The headline upgrade is the move to the Apple A18 chip, already used in new iPhone models. Built on a 3‑nm process, it delivers a clear bump over the A16 in both speed and power efficiency.
With Apple A18, the entry iPad would for the first time support Apple Intelligence—AI features not available on the 2025 model. It should be able to take on more complex tasks and content processing and gain expanded gaming capabilities thanks to hardware ray tracing. For a budget device, that’s a meaningful leap.
Memory is also expected to increase from 6 GB to 8 GB, a necessary step to enable Apple Intelligence to run properly.
Apple plans to equip the 12th‑gen iPad with its in‑house N1 communications chip, the same component used in new iPhone and iPad Pro devices. It supports Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and the Thread protocol for smart‑home gear. Compared with the current Wi‑Fi 6 setup, this would be a substantial upgrade, allowing connections to faster networks and delivering better connection speeds.
Cellular models could gain Apple’s own C1 or C1X modem, designed to reduce power consumption while maintaining high data speeds. For mobile users, lower power draw without sacrificing speed is the practical win.
Early indications suggest pricing will hold steady—starting at $349 for the 128 GB configuration. Apple rarely adjusts the budget iPad’s price, so a change seems unlikely.
The tablet could debut between late March and June of next year. March or April look the most likely, and Apple may update the iPad Air lineup at the same time.