Apple's New Entry-Level iPad With A18 Chip and AI Support Coming Soon

Apple is preparing to launch a new entry-level iPad in the coming months. The hardware is already finished and is slated for release during the iOS 26.4 window, which runs through May, bringing Apple Intelligence support to its most affordable tablet.



The company recently refreshed its mid-tier tablet offerings with the introduction of the M4 iPad Air, but the base model was notably absent. According to Mark Gurman, the staggered rollout was planned, with the entry-level iPad long targeted for release in the iOS 26.4 timeframe. That software cycle is now nearing completion following the iOS 26.4 Release Candidate.


The key upgrade is a jump from the A16 Bionic to the A18 chip. That aligns with earlier supply chain reports indicating Apple would prioritize performance over a redesign. The current base iPad is limited to 4GB of RAM and cannot run Apple's latest generative features. Moving to A18 is expected to bring the neural engine performance and 8GB of memory required for on-device Apple Intelligence.

Adding Apple Intelligence support to the base iPad closes a gap in Apple's lineup. Until now, budget buyers and education customers have not had access to those features on iPad. Updating the entry model brings it in line with current iPhone and Mac hardware.

Gurman notes that the timing reflects a mix of supply and marketing factors. Apple has been working through existing inventory of the current model while navigating broader component constraints. The company also spaced out launches, with the iPad Air arriving first, followed by other recent releases like the iPhone 17e and the MacBook Neo.

With the hardware ready to go, the new entry-level iPad is expected to arrive before the end of the iOS 26.4 cycle. Please download the iClarified app or follow iClarified on X, Facebook, YouTube, and RSS for launch updates.