The 10th-generation iPad from Apple offers excellent value at $299 (down from the regular price of $349), particularly since the next model with a similar display size starts at $600. The iPad 10 features a full-screen design, vibrant color options, Touch ID, USB-C, and impressive camera capabilities. However, there is one crucial feature that potential buyers should consider before making a purchase.
Lack of Apple Intelligence
Since the update to the iPad mini last fall, the iPad 10 stands out as the only model in Apple’s lineup that does not support Apple Intelligence. In contrast, all Mac models currently available do feature this technology.
While there are still three iPhone models lacking Apple Intelligence (the iPhone 15, iPhone 14, and iPhone SE), Apple Intelligence support is not yet standard across all of its hardware. Nevertheless, it’s reasonable to expect such a feature in new devices launching in 2025.
Apple has established a minimum specification of 8GB RAM as the threshold for devices capable of running Apple Intelligence. An 8GB RAM configuration is optimal for iPhones and iPads, enabling seamless multitasking without performance slowdown. Conversely, on Mac systems, a baseline of 16GB RAM is now standard with all new models.
Can you guess which iPad does not come equipped with 8GB RAM? That’s right—the iPad 10. Given that multitasking capabilities are more extensive on the iPad compared to the iPhone, it’s reasonable to anticipate higher RAM in a tablet than in a smartphone. Consequently, it may be wise to hold off for a revamped iPad 11 to see if it includes 8GB, potentially at a price lower than the $600 iPad Air.
Should You Purchase an iPad Without AI?
Is Apple Intelligence so critical that you should avoid buying the iPad 10? Not necessarily at this point, but the device is likely to remain useful until Apple Intelligence matures enough for your future needs. As noted earlier, having at least 8GB RAM in an iPad is increasingly sensible these days.
The real question is whether the upcoming 11th-generation iPad will support Apple Intelligence. If it doesn’t, then Apple might be better off delaying its release until it can offer 8GB RAM at a competitive price.
I’m personally invested in this dilemma. My son currently uses an aging iPad 9, and I would love to upgrade our household by moving away from the Lightning port and Home button. Nevertheless, even with a low trade-in upgrade price, I’m hesitant to bypass Apple Intelligence for his next iPad. Features like Image Playground and Genmoji feel essential to the core iPad experience once you’ve had a chance to use them.
Do you agree or disagree? Would you consider purchasing an iPad 11 that lacks Apple Intelligence? It’s still too early to say, but a significantly improved Siri might make waiting for Apple Intelligence worthwhile. Time will tell!
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