Apple last refreshed its entry-level iPad in October 2022, marking the most significant update to this base model since its reintroduction in 2017. This update showcased the iPad’s 10th generation, and although 2.5 years have passed, the upcoming 11th generation model is not expected to feature any major changes, primarily due to one key factor.
Key Confirmed Upgrade: New Chip
Similar to the recently released iPad mini 7, the iPad 11 is anticipated to be little more than a minor specifications upgrade. Specifically, it is set to transition from the A14 Bionic chip to the A17 Pro chip, based on current rumors.
This change will elevate it from the chip that was launched in 2020 with the iPhone 12 to one that debuted in 2023 with the iPhone 15 Pro. This upgrade is expected to deliver around a 40% boost in speed, at least regarding CPU performance.
Additionally, there will be an increase in system memory from 4GB to 8GB, enhancing multitasking capabilities and overall performance.
There’s also near confirmation of Apple Intelligence being included in the iPad 11, bringing Apple’s latest AI features to the most economical iPad for the first time. These features will comprise Genmoji, Image Playground, ChatGPT support, and a revamped Siri.
Possible Upgrades
Regrettably, there are few other notable upgrade rumors circulating. There might be slight changes in available colors, and Apple could potentially enhance connectivity options. Speculations suggest the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
One wildcard feature could be Stage Manager. This feature was introduced with iPadOS 16 and requires at least an A12X (or newer) iPad Pro or an M1 (or newer) iPad Air. Although Apple hasn’t extended this feature to other iPads yet, it’s arguable that an A17 Pro with 8GB RAM would handle it better than an A12X with only 4GB RAM. Ultimately, only time will reveal the outcome.
Conclusion
In conclusion, despite the lengthy interval between updates, this will merely represent another modest specification enhancement for the iPad. A notable upgrade across the iPad range in 2024 was relocating the camera to a landscape position, a feature the base model already received in 2022.
Hopefully, Apple will raise the base storage from 64GB to 128GB to add some excitement. The new iPad model is projected to launch this spring.
What are your thoughts on Apple’s upcoming iPad? Share your opinions in the comments.
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