Apple’s Upcoming 12th-Generation iPad: What to Expect
Apple is poised to unveil its 12th-generation entry-level iPad in the coming week, introducing notable internal enhancements while maintaining its familiar design.
Design
The forthcoming iPad will retain its 11-inch edge-to-edge display, complemented by the Touch ID Side Button and prominent bezels. This design continuity follows the significant aesthetic overhaul introduced with the 10th-generation model, aligning the entry-level iPad’s appearance with that of the iPad Pro and iPad Air. Measuring 7mm in thickness, it remains Apple’s most substantial tablet. The device will feature a Retina LCD display, lacking ProMotion support, P3 wide color gamut, and lamination—features present in higher-end models. Apple is expected to offer the device in a variety of vibrant colors, potentially introducing new shades to the existing palette of blue, pink, silver, and yellow. No alterations are anticipated for the rear and front cameras, USB-C port, or compatibility with accessories like the Apple Pencil.
A-Series Processor
The new iPad is anticipated to be powered by Apple’s A19 chip, the same processor utilized in the iPhone 17 series. Fabricated using a 3-nanometer process, the A19 chip promises enhanced speed and efficiency compared to the A16 chip found in the current model. A significant advancement is the chip’s support for Apple Intelligence, enabling features previously unavailable on the entry-level iPad. Additionally, the A19 chip offers hardware-accelerated ray tracing, enhancing gaming experiences. To accommodate Apple Intelligence capabilities, the device’s RAM is expected to increase from 6GB to 8GB.
N1 Chip
Apple’s proprietary N1 chip, introduced in the iPhone 17 models, may also be incorporated into the new iPad. This chip supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread networking technology for smart home devices. If included, the iPad would benefit from faster 6GHz Wi-Fi networks and improved Bluetooth connectivity. However, some reports suggest that the N1 chip might be reserved for Apple’s premium devices, leaving its inclusion in the entry-level iPad uncertain.
Apple Modem
The upcoming iPad could feature Apple’s in-house C1 and C1X modem chips, previously used in iPhones and iPads in 2025. These modem chips are designed to be more power-efficient than their Qualcomm counterparts while delivering comparable performance.
Pricing
The 11th-generation iPad is currently priced starting at $349 for the 128GB storage variant. There are no indications of a price change for the 12th-generation model, suggesting it will maintain the same starting price point.
Launch Date
Apple is expected to launch the new iPad next week, ahead of the Special Experience event scheduled for March 4.
