Apple’s next budget iPad is poised to receive a major upgrade: it will include the hardware necessary to support Apple Intelligence. This development comes via code found in Apple’s systems, suggesting the upcoming 12th-generation entry-level iPad will be a notable shift from current models.
What’s Changing
According to internal code analysis, the next low-cost iPad is expected to use an A19 chip along with 8GB of RAM. These specifications align with Apple’s requirements for running its new Apple Intelligence suite, which includes enhanced machine learning and AI features tied to Siri and other smart functionalities.
Connectivity will also be a focus. The device is said to adopt a C1X modem capable of sub-6GHz 5G support. It may also feature an N1 networking chip that brings Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread compatibility. All of these would represent upgrades over many present base iPad models, particularly for wireless and network performance.
Release Window and Price
While Apple has not officially confirmed any details about when or how much this new iPad will cost, analysts believe it could arrive in spring 2027. Expectation is that pricing will start around US$449—the same starting point as the current entry-level version.
Why This Matters
The current entry-level iPad remains on specifications that do not support the newest intelligence features announced for Apple’s ecosystem. By advancing the base model to include Apple Intelligence, Apple would bring high-end AI features to a larger audience, not just those who buy premium devices.
This shift would reflect broader strategy: making generative AI, on-device processing, and smart assistant capabilities more central in everyday Apple hardware—not just its flagship models.
Looking ahead, this change will raise the bar for competitors in affordable tablets. Buyers will expect more than simply touchscreen and app access—they’ll demand on-device intelligence, smarter connectivity, and AI-enabled features baked into even the most affordable models.
