Apple keeps its most affordable iPad stuck in the past, still using the aging A14 chipset introduced over four years ago. While the company did drop its price from $449 to $349 early last year, a meaningful update has been long overdue.
Thankfully, it looks like the wait is almost over. This spring, we’re expecting the iPad 11 to make its debut—marking the first major refresh to Apple’s entry-level tablet in two and a half years. Here’s what could be in store.
Apple Intelligence
The next-gen entry-level iPad will likely support Apple Intelligence, though no one knows yet which chipset it will use. Most signs point to the A18 chip, as the first-generation 3nm process is expensive, and Apple likely wants to reserve the A17 Pro for devices like the iPad mini. Reports suggest Apple had leftover binned A17 Pro chips from iPhone 15 Pro production, which might explain the decision.
If the iPad 11 does get Apple Intelligence, it’ll bring features like notification summaries, Image Playground, Genmoji, the redesigned Siri, ChatGPT integration, and more. Assuming it launches this spring, Apple should have rolled out all its Apple Intelligence features by then, making this refresh a significant upgrade for the entry-level iPad.
Improved Connectivity
The iPad 11 is expected to support newer connectivity standards like Wi-Fi 6E (or possibly Wi-Fi 7) and Bluetooth 5.3. This would be an upgrade from the current entry-level iPad’s Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, offering improvements like lower latency and better overall performance.
Additionally, cellular versions of the iPad 11 might be the first to feature Apple’s in-house 5G modem. According to Bloomberg, Apple plans to introduce its custom modem in lower-end iPads next year, with a rollout to Pro models of the iPhone and iPad expected by 2026. This would mark a significant milestone for Apple’s wireless technology.
New Magic Keyboard
Apple is reportedly working on a new, more affordable Magic Keyboard for iPads, and the iPad 11 might be one of the first to support it. Unlike the folio-style keyboard that comes with the iPad 10, this new accessory will feature a more traditional keyboard design, making it a better fit for productivity-focused users.
Release Date
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is planning to launch the iPad 11 this spring alongside other devices like the iPhone SE and iPad Air.
The new iPad is expected to keep a similar design to the 2022 model but will come with a much-needed speed boost. If the timeline holds, Apple’s most affordable iPad will have gone 2.5 years without a refresh by the time the iPad 11 finally hits shelves.
