It seems the wait for Apple’s next affordable iPad is almost over, as an unsurfaced listing points to a 12th-generation iPad launching in 2026.
The product listing from accessory maker ESR Tech references an “iPad 12th Gen (A18) 2026”, which suggests Apple’s upcoming entry-level tablet could receive a newer processor while keeping the same overall design as the current model.
According to the original listing, which has since been taken down, the new iPad will maintain compatibility with screen protectors designed for the 10th and 11th-generation iPads, indicating that Apple may not be planning a noticeable external redesign for this update.
That’s somewhat unsurprising, given that Apple has largely kept the physical design unchanged and instead has focused on internal hardware upgrades in recent entry-level iPad releases.
With that in mind, the most significant change with the upcoming iPad will likely come from the chipset, with the listing referencing Apple’s A18 processor. That’s a step up from the current entry-level iPad 11 which runs on Apple’s A16 chip.
iPad 11 Gen
Not only would this chip upgrade see a boost in performance, but it will also enable the running of Apple Intelligence, the company’s suite of AI-powered features that Apple has been gradually rolling out across newer iPhones, iPads and Macs.
Running those AI features requires a minimum of 8GB of RAM, which means the next budget iPad could also receive a memory upgrade to meet Apple’s hardware requirements for on-device AI processing.
Of course this is currently just speculation, however the boost in RAM would move the baseline iPad closer to the capabilities seen in higher-end models while still bringing features such as AI-assisted writing tools, smarter notifications and enhanced productivity features to a wider audience.
The entry-level iPad has traditionally focused on students, casual users and buyers looking for Apple’s most affordable tablet, so adding Apple Intelligence could significantly broaden what the device can handle without pushing it into premium territory.
Pricing remains uncertain, though Apple’s current entry-level iPad starts at $349/£329, and maintaining a similar price point would help keep the device competitive in the budget tablet category.
Apple has not announced the next baseline iPad yet, but the appearance of accessory listings typically signals that a launch could be approaching.
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