Leak: Apple is preparing iPads with faster hardware in 2026

A look at Apple's iPad plans for 2026 reveals the extent to which the tablet line is being further developed. An internal code discovery suggests that the entry-level iPad will receive a significant performance upgrade, and the iPad Air will get a new generation of chip. Both models will thus move closer to the premium devices and are expected to be better equipped for Apple's intelligence features.

Apple recently unveiled the new iPad Pro with the M5 chip. Earlier this year, the M3-based iPad Air and an iPad with an A16 processor were released. Now, a leaked internal code document from an early version of iOS 26 provides clear clues about what's coming in 2026. It mentions an iPad with an A19 chip, an iPad Air with an M4 chip, and the new N1 wireless chip. The document originates from internal Apple software that Macworld was able to review.

A19 iPad

The entry-level iPad is expected to receive a significant upgrade in 2026. Internal code mentions two model variants, designated J581 and J588. According to the findings, both will run on the A19 chip, which is also used in the current iPhone 17. The difference compared to the current A16 chip in the eleventh-generation iPad is substantial. The A19 is expected to be about 50 percent faster and will come with 8 GB of RAM, while the current model uses 6 GB. This will increase the performance headroom for multitasking and AI-based functions. Apple is thus moving the entry-level model closer to the mid-range market and laying the foundation for future Apple Intelligence features.

No major design changes are planned. According to the code, the display, casing, and cameras will remain unchanged. At the same time, the device will receive the new N1 wireless chip. This chip was first used in the iPhone 17 series and is expected to provide more stable connections, lower latency, and overall improved wireless performance.

M4 iPad Air

Internal code also reveals a new iPad Air, internally designated J707, J708, J737, and J738. As expected, the design will remain the same, and according to the document, the display and cameras will also be identical to the current generation. The most significant upgrade lies in the chip. The device is expected to upgrade from the M3 to the M4. The performance difference isn't huge, but it will be particularly noticeable in older Air models. The M4 offers significantly higher CPU and GPU performance and is more energy efficient. Just like the new entry-level iPad, it will also feature the N1 wireless chip, which standardizes the connection technology and is designed to provide lower latency.

Apple iPad: More power and new wireless technology as core strategy

Evidence from internal code suggests that Apple plans to significantly boost performance in its entry-level and mid-range iPads in 2026. The focus is clearly on improved chips, increased capacity for AI features, and a new wireless technology that will provide a more unified foundation for future Apple devices. If the information proves accurate, the iPad lineup can expect a substantial performance update next year, bringing it closer to the premium models. (Image: dontree / DepositPhotos.com)