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Apple introduced two new iPads on Tuesday, but without a big event. Instead, the new models were simply released in the online store. While the new iPad Air is equipped with the M3 chip, the iPad 11 is the base model and uses the A16 chip. One of the most noticeable limitations: the device does not support the new Apple Intelligence functions. This is likely to be a disappointment for many Apple users, as Apple Intelligence was announced in recent months as a central component of the new software generation. But why is this function missing from the iPad 11? What impact does this have on usage? And is the device still worth it? Here are all the details.
Apple Intelligence is one of the most important innovations that the company has introduced in recent years. The functions are based on artificial intelligence and are intended to, among other things, edit texts more intelligently, create personalized emojis (Genmoji) and significantly improve Siri. Many had expected that the new iPads would all be equipped with Apple Intelligence, especially because the feature is a major selling point for upcoming Apple products. But the iPad 11 remains excluded from this.
Why doesn't the iPad 11 support Apple Intelligence features?
The A16 chip as a limiting factor
The iPad 11 is powered by the A16 chip, which was originally introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro and is now also found in the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus. This chip is powerful and offers a significant improvement over the A13 chip in the previous base iPad models. However, it lacks one crucial feature: it only has 6GB of RAM, while Apple Intelligence requires at least 8GB. This is the main reason why the new iPad cannot access the new AI features.
Comparison with other iPad models
A look at Apple's comparison page shows that Apple Intelligence only works on devices with an A17 Pro or M1 chip (or newer). These include:
- iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max (A17 Pro)
- iPhone 16 series (A18 and A18 Pro)
- iPad mini 7 (A17 Pro)
- iPad Air with M1, M2 or M3
- iPad Pro with M1, M2 or M4
The iPad 11 falls off this list, although with the A16 chip it offers a significant improvement over the previous model.
Apple sets clear priorities
In the past, Apple has often reserved software features for certain devices. One example is the Stage Manager, which was originally only available for iPads with an M1 chip or newer. The fact that Apple Intelligence has now not been released for the iPad 11 shows that Apple reserves these functions as a premium feature for more powerful devices. This makes it clear that Apple is focusing on its Pro and Air models, while the basic model is intended more for simple usage scenarios.
Technical details of the iPad 11
The new iPad 11 brings some improvements, even though it does not offer Apple Intelligence support.
- Processor: A16 chip with a 5-core CPU and a 4-core GPU
- Memory: 6 GB RAM
- Storage space: 128 GB (twice as much as the previous model)
- Price: From 399 euros in Germany
- Availability: Pre-orders already possible, market launch on March 12th
For comparison: The A16 chip in the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 has an additional CPU and GPU core, which makes it slightly more powerful. Nevertheless, the iPad 11 offers solid performance for everyday tasks such as surfing, streaming or office applications.
Is the iPad 11 worth it despite its limitations?
The iPad 11 is a low-cost entry-level device that is particularly suitable for users looking for a solid tablet for basic applications. It offers more power than its predecessor, but without access to Apple Intelligence. If you want to use Apple Intelligence, you should consider an iPad mini, iPad Air or iPad Pro instead. The lack of AI integration could be a disadvantage in the long term, especially for users who plan to use their device for several years. For everyone else, however, the iPad 11 remains a good choice - especially due to the attractive price and improved performance. The best accessories in one place: Our Amazon Storefront offers you top products, also for your HomeKit! (Image: Apple)
