In his most recent report, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman disclosed a variety of new Apple products expected to debut in the upcoming year. While we anticipate new iPhones and Apple Watches to be presented in September, the journalist also suggests potential release dates for new iPad models, including the 12th-generation standard iPad.
If his report holds true, Apple is gearing up for a new budget iPad set to launch in spring 2026, approximately a year following the introduction of the current model. Although there was considerable excitement surrounding Apple’s 11th-generation tablet, it appears the company will not shy away from a substantive upgrade with next year’s version.
Given that the current model is equipped with the A16 Bionic chip, Apple faces two choices: release the identical iPad with the same chipset or enhance it with the A18. Opting for the latter could allow this tablet to integrate Apple Intelligence functionalities.
While Apple’s AI initiatives haven’t yet made a significant mark, this would at least ensure the iPad becomes “future-proof,” allowing users to take advantage of forthcoming AI capabilities. This might also necessitate an upgrade in RAM to a minimum of 8GB.
With increased power, an affordable entry price, and 128GB of storage, this may be the sole tablet worth considering. Additionally, Apple’s impending iPadOS 26 update elevates the value of this iPad even further.
iPadOS 26 will allow this budget iPad to excel
In contrast to prior software updates, iPadOS 26 genuinely improves the iPad experience. For instance, users are no longer required to have a premium M-series iPad to utilize windowing functionality. This simplifies working and studying on the iPad, with or without keyboard and pencil accessories.
Should Apple equip this iPad with the A18 chip and 8GB of RAM, it would deliver enhanced performance for background activities (now supported in iPadOS 26). Users could also gain access to essential Apple Intelligence features, which include:
– Live Translation: Instantaneous translation in Phone, Messages, and FaceTime apps.
– ChatGPT integration: Utilize Apple Intelligence powered by ChatGPT, featuring onscreen awareness, writing tools, and more.
– Image Playground: Generate images from sketches, descriptions, or photos for academic tasks, studies, and beyond.
Conclusion
With a anticipated launch in 2026, it is understood that Apple intends to retain the 11-inch display, provide at least 128GB of storage, and incorporate a faster chip. As more information becomes available, we will provide updates.
