Apple is preparing a new generation of its most affordable tablet. The new iPad 12th generation is expected to be a fairly evolutionary update, although it could introduce several important improvements in performance, connectivity, and artificial intelligence features. The device is expected to arrive in 2027 and, although a major redesign is not anticipated, it could offer a significant evolution compared with the current model.
These are all the features currently rumored for the upcoming iPad 12.
The iPad 12 Design Is Expected to Remain Largely Unchanged
One of the main new features of the iPad 12 may actually be related to what Apple does not change: its design. Everything suggests that Apple will maintain an aesthetic very similar to the current generation, with an 11-inch display, relatively thick bezels, and a side button with Touch ID.
The current design was introduced with the 10th-generation iPad and represented a major change compared with previous models. Since then, Apple has maintained this design language on its most affordable tablet, differentiating it from the more advanced designs of the iPad Air and iPad Pro.
The display is expected to continue using LED Retina technology, although it would still lack features such as ProMotion, a wide P3 color gamut, and a fully laminated panel. These technologies would remain exclusive to higher-end iPad models.
Apple could also introduce new color options. The current entry-level model is available in several finishes, including blue, pink, silver, and yellow, so the company could expand or refresh the color lineup with the arrival of the new iPad.
The Biggest Upgrade Could Be the Processor
The main improvement in the iPad 12 could be found inside the device. Apple may equip the tablet with an A18 chip or even an A19 chip, depending on the company’s final strategy.
Either option would represent a significant performance boost compared with the A16 chip used in the current generation. In addition to offering more power, newer chips would also be more efficient and better equipped to run advanced artificial intelligence features.
The arrival of an A18 or A19 processor would allow the new iPad to support Apple Intelligence. The current model cannot use these features because of limitations related to its processor and memory, making this one of the most important upgrades expected with the new generation.
Graphics performance could also improve, including support for technologies such as hardware-accelerated ray tracing. This could be particularly beneficial for gaming and applications that require greater graphical performance.
More RAM for Apple Intelligence
To ensure that Apple Intelligence works properly, the iPad 12 could increase its RAM to 8 GB. The current model has 6 GB, which would not be enough to run Apple’s artificial intelligence features.
The additional memory would not only improve Apple Intelligence performance. It would also allow users to keep more applications open simultaneously and provide a smoother experience over several years.
Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 with the N1 Chip
Another possible feature of the new iPad could be the inclusion of Apple’s N1 wireless chip. This component could provide support for Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread, a technology that is particularly important for smart home devices.
The current model is limited to Wi-Fi 6. Therefore, the arrival of Wi-Fi 7 would enable faster speeds and better performance on compatible networks. Bluetooth 6 would also represent an upgrade over the Bluetooth 5.3 technology found in the current generation.
However, there is still some uncertainty about whether Apple will include the N1 chip in its most affordable tablet or reserve it for higher-end devices.
A Possible Apple-Designed Modem
Cellular versions could receive another important upgrade. Apple is developing its own modems, and the iPad 12 could feature a new generation of this technology.
Apple-designed modems are intended to provide strong power efficiency and competitive performance. Their inclusion would allow the company to gradually reduce its dependence on external suppliers.
Price and Release Date
The starting price of the new iPad could be around $449 for the 128 GB storage version, although the final price could vary depending on the market.
As for the release date, everything points to Apple potentially introducing the iPad 12 during the first quarter of 2027. Therefore, users considering purchasing the current model may want to wait a few more months.
Ultimately, the new iPad does not appear set to revolutionize the design of Apple’s tablet lineup, but it could become a very important update thanks to a more powerful processor, Apple Intelligence support, additional RAM, and possible connectivity improvements. The iPad 12 could therefore become one of Apple’s most interesting tablets for users looking for an affordable device with a longer useful life.
