As part of Apple’s announcement week for new products earlier this month, many anticipated an update for Apple’s most affordable iPad, alongside the iPad Air, MacBook Neo, and other MacBook upgrades. Nevertheless, the entire week concluded without any reveal of a new base iPad.
Now, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has offered a launch update, suggesting that the product is still on course for a relatively imminent release. In the latest edition of the Power On newsletter, Gurman disclosed that Apple has been intending to launch a refreshed version of the entry-level iPad within the first half of 2026. This forthcoming model is anticipated to include a significant upgrade from the A16 chip to the A18 chip, enhancing performance and introducing compatibility with Apple Intelligence.
The iOS 26.4 release cycle does not specify an exact month for the iPad’s debut, but given that iOS 26.4 has recently reached the release candidate phase, the update is expected to launch by the month’s end, paving the way for a possible release in April or potentially slipping into May due to supply chain considerations.
### What’s New with iPad (A18)
The existing base model iPad is powered by the A16 chip from the iPhone 14 Pro series. The forthcoming model will transition to the A18 chip from the iPhone 16 series, promising significant performance improvements and the introduction of Apple Intelligence features. While extensive functionalities for Apple Intelligence may not be available until the launch of iOS 26.5, this upgrade will finally bring AI capabilities to the budget iPad, which has been deficient in this regard.
Moreover, there are speculations that Apple might incorporate its proprietary C1 modem and N1 networking chip into the budget iPad, although these specifics remain unconfirmed. Overall, the A18 iPad refresh is largely recognized as a chip enhancement.
### Wrap Up
Although the new iPad may be perceived as a modest refresh, it continues to perform its designated tasks effectively. However, the recent unveiling of the MacBook Neo has brought attention to a pricing concern regarding the base iPad. Acquiring the iPad along with the Magic Keyboard Folio equals a total of $598, a mere dollar less than the MacBook Neo.
Even though the iPad itself isn’t experiencing major modifications, there is an expectation for Apple to readdress the keyboard pricing associated with the iPad. A $349 iPad combined with a $249 keyboard raises questions about overall value.
As the launch nears, many are left pondering what additional features or modifications they would like to see in Apple’s most affordable iPad.

