# Apple’s Base iPad: What’s Causing the Hold-Up in Refresh?
Last week, Apple captured attention by unveiling the updated iPad mini, now featuring the A17 Pro chip along with support for Apple Intelligence. However, the lack of an update for the base model iPad has many scratching their heads. The current base iPad has been available for over two years, prompting inquiries about Apple’s choice to leave it behind.
## A Snapshot of the Base iPad’s Evolution
The entry-level iPad, which we now identify as the base iPad, was first launched in 2017. While the current iteration is the 10th generation, the cost-effective appeal of this series began with the 5th generation. Following the 2013 release of the iPad Air, the iPad 4 was phased out, creating a notable hiatus between iPad updates.
With the launch of the 5th generation iPad, Apple sought to develop a device appealing to a broad audience, especially in educational settings. This model removed non-essential features and concentrated on the basics, providing a modest 32GB storage option at a price of $329, making it a compelling choice for thrifty shoppers.
Later generations received annual refreshes, including the introduction of Apple Pencil support, upgraded chipsets, and enhanced display technologies. The most notable update arose with the 10th generation iPad, which embraced a contemporary aesthetic, offered lively color choices, and transitioned to USB-C. Nevertheless, it continued to use an older chipset and did not support the Apple Pencil 2, necessitating the use of the first-generation Apple Pencil with an adapter.
## Why Is There No Refresh?
The existing base iPad, equipped with an A14 chip, is now over two years old. Apple generally updates the base model with a chipset that is roughly two years old at the time of release. The absence of a new iPad this year might be related to Apple’s aim to synchronize its product lineup with the arrival of Apple Intelligence, which has emerged as a central element in its marketing initiatives.
If Apple were to unveil a new base iPad, it would likely incorporate the A16 chip, which would lack the capability to support Apple Intelligence. Although it is technically possible to outfit the device with an A16 chip and 8GB of RAM, Apple may be reluctant to tailor Apple Intelligence for lower-tier hardware, particularly if it would be confined to a single device.
With the current price of the base iPad set at $349, it is improbable that Apple would integrate a newer chipset beyond the A16. Moreover, considering that the iPad mini employs the A17 Pro chip, Apple may be cautious about overloading its second-generation 3nm process, which likely has limited production resources. Therefore, rolling out the latest chip in its most budget-friendly product might not be feasible.
Taking all these aspects into account, it seems that a refresh for the base model iPad that also supports Apple Intelligence was unlikely this year, resulting in the choice to forgo an update for the second year in a row.
## When Should We Anticipate the iPad 11?
Given the current situation, many are curious about when Apple will finally refresh the base model iPad. Initially, there were hopes for a release in the fall, but that expectation did not materialize. Display analyst Ross Young noted that panel shipments are on the way, hinting at a potential spring update. However, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has offered a more reserved timeframe, estimating that an update for the entry-level iPad might not appear until later in the year.
This could imply a refresh in fall 2025, aligning with the introduction of the iPhone 17, which would allow for production capacity to be allocated for Apple’s flagship iPad to use the older A18 chip from the iPhone 16. This would permit the integration of Apple Intelligence, though it may seem odd for the base iPad to feature a more advanced chip than the iPad mini.
## Conclusion
To conclude, it appears that Apple’s choice to forgo a refresh of the base iPad is primarily influenced by its dedication to Apple Intelligence. With the likelihood of a refresh not occurring until late 2025, Apple will continue to market a product that is three years old, paired with a chipset that will be five years old by then. This raises concerns regarding the longevity of software support, but it seems to be the current landscape.
In the meantime, Apple may see a boost in sales of the iPad Air as consumers seeking the features of Apple Intelligence still look for budget-conscious alternatives.
What are your thoughts regarding Apple’s commitment to Apple Intelligence? Share your views in the comments below.
