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The most affordable iPad is set to receive its most significant update in years: a chip that finally supports Apple Intelligence. However, the release date keeps getting pushed back. After spring and fall 2026, the beginning of 2027 is now being discussed.
Apple last updated its entry-level iPad in March 2025, with an A16 chip and an 11-inch display. It's a solid device for everyday use, but the A16 doesn't support Apple Intelligence. This makes the cheapest iPad the only model in the current lineup that lacks precisely the features Apple has been making central to its software since 2024.
The 12th generation iPad is intended to fill this gap. While the device's features are now fairly well defined, the release date remains the main question. OuriPad buying guide shows how the current model compares to the iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Detail | Expectation |
|---|---|
| Chip | A19 according to Apple's code; previously it was called A18. |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Display | 11-inch LCD, 60 Hz, unchanged |
| Design | No changes expected |
| Radio and mobile communications | Apple's N1 chip, in mobile phone models the C1X modem |
| Apple Intelligence | Yes, for the first time in the entry-level iPad |
| Release | Early 2027, according to the latest report |
| Price today (previous price) | from 499 euros |
Chip: A19 instead of A18
The most important aspect is the chip, as Apple Intelligence is tied to it. For a long time, the A18 chip from the iPhone 16 was considered likely, as reported by Mark Gurman of Bloomberg. However, at the end of September, a different entry appeared in Apple's own code: it listed the A19 chip for the new entry-level iPad, paired with 8 GB of RAM.
The code is stronger evidence because it comes from shipped software and not from the supply chain. The A19 chip is from the iPhone 17. If the iPad 12 doesn't appear until 2027, it will, as usual, be one generation behind the current iPhone chip.
Both chips support Apple Intelligence. For everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, note-taking, and light office work, the difference between the A18 and A19 is negligible anyway.
Display: LCD remains
The display is not expected to change. According to all current reports, the iPad 12 will retain the 11-inch Liquid Retina LCD display with a 60Hz refresh rate. OLED, ProMotion, and a laminated display will remain exclusive to the iPad Air and iPad Pro.
The current model features True Tone display, the extended P3 color gamut, and 500 nits of brightness. For the price, that's still a solid performance.
Design: familiar form
Externally, everything will remain the same: flat edges, Touch ID integrated into the power button, USB-C, and stereo speakers. The front camera will still be located on the long side. New colors are possible; the current model is available in blue, pink, yellow, and silver.
Radio, mobile communications and accessories
According to Apple code, the iPad 12 will feature Apple's own N1 chip for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread. The cellular models are expected to use the C1X modem, also an Apple in-house design.
No major changes are expected for cameras and accessories:
- Rear camera: 12 MP wide-angle
- Front camera: 12 MP with follow mode, on the long side
- Apple Pencil: Apple Pencil (USB-C) remains compatible
- Keyboard: Magic Keyboard Folio will continue to be supported.
Release: from spring through autumn to 2027
The release date has been postponed several times. In March 2026, Gurman reported that the device was finished and would be released that year. While the iPad Air with M4 was released that same month, the entry-level iPad was not.
On April 30, Apple's CFO Kevan Parekh hinted at a delay for the next iPad in a conversation with analysts. He said that comparing it to the same quarter of the previous year was difficult because that quarter saw the introduction of the iPad with the A16 chip. At that time, a launch in fall 2026 was considered likely.
That won't happen either. The entry-level iPad isn't planned for either the event on October 13th or the second round at the end of October. According to Gurman's report from October 11th, it's not expected until early 2027, the same year as an iPad Air with OLED and a new iPad Pro.
Price: The current model costs 499 euros
In the German Apple Store, the current iPad costs from €499 for the 128GB version and €629 for the 256GB version. Apple raised the prices for Macs and iPads in June.
With Apple Intelligence, the iPad 12 would be the most affordable iPad to support these features. Currently, this class starts at €679 with the iPad mini.
Apple Intelligence and Siri AI in the EU
Apple Intelligence runs on the iPad in Germany and Austria. Siri AI, however, is not yet available on iPadOS in the EU, a decision Apple cites as a reason for the Digital Markets Act. Switzerland is exempt from this restriction because it is not an EU member. Regardless, Siri AI does not yet speak German.
Who is the iPad 12 intended for?
Users of a 9th or 10th generation iPad will receive a significant upgrade with the iPad 12: faster chip, Apple Intelligence, more RAM, and modern wireless chips. The difference is noticeable in everyday use when switching from an older iPad with Lightning to USB-C.
Those who own the current iPad with the A16 chip have little reason to upgrade. The design and display remain the same; the only real improvement is Apple Intelligence.
The situation remains difficult for anyone who needs an affordable iPad right now. I only think waiting until 2027 makes sense if Apple Intelligence is truly essential. If you need an iPad now, go for the current model, or choose the iPad mini or iPad Air with M4, which already support Apple Intelligence.
Are you waiting until 2027 for the iPad 12 – or are you buying the current model now, even though it lacks Apple Intelligence? Let us know your prediction in the comments.
