Apple is working on a successor to its entry-level iPad, with the 12th-generation model reportedly in development for a spring 2027 release, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman and other supply-chain sources.
When Could It Launch?
Reports point to a spring 2027 timeframe, positioning the new iPad alongside other refreshes expected across Apple’s Mac and iPad roadmap that year. That would put roughly two years between this model and the current 11th-generation iPad, which launched in 2026.
A Faster Chip Is Coming
The current entry-level iPad runs on the A17 Pro chip. For the 12th-generation model, Apple is reportedly weighing either an A18 or A19 chip, both of which would bring faster performance, improved graphics, and better power efficiency, along with stronger on-device processing specifically for Apple Intelligence tasks.
This mirrors a broader pattern across Apple’s 2026-2027 hardware plans: much like the rumored jump to an A19 Pro chip in the next MacBook Neo, Apple appears to be pushing newer silicon further down its product lineup rather than reserving it for flagship devices alone.
RAM Could Jump to 12GB
The current model ships with 8GB of RAM, which Apple says is enough for existing Apple Intelligence features. But reports suggest the next iPad could move to 12GB, a change that would put it in line with rumors that all four iPhone 18 models are also standardizing on 12GB of memory. If both moves happen, it would suggest Apple is establishing 12GB as its new baseline for AI-capable devices going forward, not just an occasional upgrade for premium hardware.
Apple Intelligence Front and Center
Expect continued support for Writing Tools, Image Playground, Genmoji, smarter Siri integration, and AI-assisted notifications all of which benefit directly from extra memory and faster chips. The pattern across Apple’s current rumor mill is consistent: nearly every upcoming device, from iPhones to MacBooks to iPads, is being upgraded primarily to support heavier on-device AI workloads.
Design Stays Familiar
Don’t expect a visual overhaul. The 12th-generation iPad is expected to keep its roughly 11-inch Liquid Retina display, USB-C port, Touch ID in the power button, a landscape front camera, and Apple Pencil support. Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular options should continue, possibly with updated wireless standards.
Software and Pricing
The tablet should launch with the latest iPadOS version available at the time, bringing improved multitasking and deeper Apple Intelligence integration. On pricing, there’s no indication Apple plans to raise the entry-level cost, though nothing is officially confirmed.
What’s Still Unconfirmed
Apple hasn’t announced the device, its chip, RAM, pricing, or launch date. Everything currently comes from analyst and supply-chain reporting rather than Apple itself.
Discover more from Phoonomo
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
