Next entry-level iPad rumored to get A18 chip with Apple Intelligence support
A new leak claims that Apple's next entry-level iPad will get an A18 chip, which could add support for Apple Intelligence to Apple's budget tablet.
Apple's entry-level iPad could get a speed boost.
The current 11-inch iPad sports the A16 chip, and the upgrade to an A18 would bring with it various improvements. While apps and games will run more smoothly, the addition of Apple Intelligence support is likely behind the upgrade.
The A18 debuted with the launch of the iPhone 14 Pro a few years ago and includes a 16-core Neural Engine. That component is designed to increase the performance of AI-specific features and apps.
Apple would also need to give the new iPad at least 8GB of RAM for Apple Intelligence support. The current model sports 6GB of RAM.
If the A18 upgrade comes to fruition, the 11-inch iPad will be an even better value for potential buyers. It's a thoroughly modern tablet with an all-screen design -- and it could soon have a modern chip to go with it.
It's also clear that Apple's focus on Apple Intelligence is key to this decision. With CEO Tim Cook circling the wagons on the company's AI stance for the future, Apple can't continue to sell a tablet that doesn't support its headline AI features.
News of the iPad's A18 upgrade comes via a MacRumors report based on Apple's accidental leaking of code that references it. The same leak also contained an upgraded iPad mini with an A19 Pro chip. The current model has an A17 Pro chip.
As for timing, Apple's current 11th-gen iPad debuted in March 2025, so an updated model isn't expected soon. Previous reports suggested that the 12th-gen model could break cover in 2026.
Apple fans won't have to wait that long for new hardware, though. The company is expected to announce the iPhone 17 lineup in September, as well as at least two new Apple Watch models.
We have no way to verify the provenance of the leak on Wednesday. However, the leak is logical, and has been said before. Plus, our friends at MacRumors do their job well, and wouldn't publish this from their own sources if they had any real doubts about it.
Rumor Score: Likely
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