# Apple’s Base iPad: What’s Causing the Delay in Update?
Recently, Apple generated buzz with the launch of an updated iPad mini, showcasing the impressive A17 Pro chip and embracing Apple Intelligence. However, the expected refresh of the standard base model iPad was noticeably missing. This prompts a crucial inquiry: why has Apple opted to keep its entry-level iPad stagnant for more than two years?
## A Quick Overview of the Base iPad
The standard model iPad, commonly known as the entry-level iPad, made its debut in 2017. While the latest version is the 10th generation, the cost-effective essence of this line originated with the 5th generation. After the iPad Air emerged in 2013, Apple phased out the iPad 4, resulting in a substantial delay between upgrades.
The original base iPad was crafted to serve a broad audience, especially within educational environments. It eliminated superfluous features, favoring a simple design with a modest storage option of just 32GB, all priced at $329. This tactic proved fruitful, prompting Apple to refresh the model each year, adding features such as Apple Pencil compatibility, larger screens, and improved processors.
The 10th generation iPad represented the most notable update in the base model’s history. It embraced a contemporary design, presented vibrant color choices, and switched to USB-C. Nevertheless, it retained an older processor, featured a non-laminated display, and only worked with the first-generation Apple Pencil via an adapter, which restricted its allure for artistic users.
## Why the Lack of Update?
The current base iPad, powered by an A14 chip, has been around for over two years. Traditionally, Apple has updated the base iPad biennially, regularly introducing a new chip with each update. The lack of a refresh this year is perplexing, particularly as Apple has highlighted Apple Intelligence as a key aspect of its product strategy.
One potential reason for the delay might be that Apple prefers not to unveil a new iPad without integrating Apple Intelligence. Following its usual trends, the upcoming iPad would likely come with an A16 chip, which doesn’t support Apple Intelligence. Apple may be reluctant to adapt this cutting-edge feature for lower-tier hardware, especially if it would only be present on one device.
Moreover, the current pricing of the base iPad at $349 poses challenges for Apple. Upgrading the device to a newer chip like the A16 could be financially precarious. With the iPad mini 7 featuring the A17 Pro chip, Apple may be wary of overstretching its production capabilities, particularly as the second-generation 3nm process has restrictive output.
## Expected Launch Date for the iPad 11
Considering the existing circumstances, many are curious about when the base model iPad will finally be updated. Initially anticipated in the fall, insights from display expert Ross Young indicate that panel shipments are on track, hinting at a possible spring launch. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has echoed this estimate, noting that Apple intends to unveil multiple products, including the 11th-generation entry-level iPads, during the spring season.
This timeline coincides with the wrap-up of iPhone 16 production, which would release resources for the base iPad to adopt the last-generation A18 chip. This inclusion would permit the implementation of Apple Intelligence, even though it might seem odd for the base iPad to feature a more advanced chip than the iPad mini.
## Conclusion
To sum up, Apple’s choice to forgo a refresh of the base iPad appears to be a calculated strategy to uphold the coherence of its product range and assure compatibility with Apple Intelligence. Consequently, consumers will have to exercise patience until next year for an update, leaving the existing model equipped with a five-year-old chipset by the time it is upgraded.
This scenario raises concerns regarding long-term software support for the base iPad, yet it also offers Apple a chance to boost iPad Air sales among budget-aware consumers eager for the latest advancements.
What are your views on Apple’s emphasis on Apple Intelligence? Feel free to share your insights in the comments below.
