New Entry-Level iPad Expected to Feature A14 Processor, 5G, USB-C

Apple is planning to unveil a significant update to its entry-level iPad this year that will feature an A14 processor, 5G support, and USB-C connectivity, according to a new report from 9to5Mac.

This year, Apple has been working on more significant upgrades for its cheaper iPad. Information seen by 9to5Mac reveals that the new 10th-generation iPad (codenamed J272) will feature a USB-C port instead of Lightning. This means that Apple is finally planning to bring USB-C to the entire iPad lineup, as iPad Pro was updated with USB-C in 2018, iPad Air in 2020, and iPad mini in 2021.

The site says that the new iPad will feature a Retina display with the same resolution as the iPad Air, suggesting a slight screen size increase to 10.5-inches or even 10.9-inches. However, it is not expected to get other display improvements like wide color gamut with DCI-P3 or higher brightness. The A14 processor should provide about a 30% bump in performance and 5G support will enable faster network connectivity.

It's unclear if Apple will finally drop the old Home button design this year; however, it would make sense given the other changes. The new tablet is expected to launch sometime this year. The current 10.2-inch iPad 9 is on sale for $309.

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