Apple plans to launch the 12th generation iPad in 2026, an entry-level model equipped with the A18 chip. The device must gain full support for Apple Intelligence, the company’s suite of artificial intelligence resources. The information came from reliable industry sources and indicates that the hardware is already finished. The announcement comes after the absence of the product in recent updates for other devices in the iPad line.
The iPad 12 maintains the general design of the previous model, launched in March 2025 as the iPad 11 with the A16 chip. The entry-level Esse continues with an 11-inch Liquid Retina screen and affordable starting prices for the Estados Unidos starting at US$349. The main expected change is the adoption of the A18, a processor already present in lines such as the iPhone 16.
Expectation for launch in the first half
The schedule points to arrival in the first half of 2026. The product is aligned with the iOS 26.4 software update cycle, which ends in May. Apple opted for a staggered launch, prioritizing other models in recent announcements.
The inclusion of the A18 resolves the current limitation of the entry-level iPad. Modelos like iPad mini, iPad Air and iPad Pro already have Apple Intelligence since their current generations. The new chip should allow on-device execution of AI tools, such as improvements to Siri and image generation.
Technical changes and AI compatibility
The A18 offers superior performance to the A16 on the iPad 11. Espera increases RAM to at least 8 GB, the minimum requirement to run Apple Intelligence efficiently. Isso includes functions such as intelligent text editing, notification summary and creative tools integrated into the system.
The external design remains similar, with thin edges and a recycled aluminum body. The battery continues to offer up to 10 hours of use. Câmeras 12 MP rear and front maintain quality for basic calls and photos.
🚨 iPad 12th gen (2026) leak
—Abhishek Yadav (@yabhishekhd)February 7, 2026
Apple’s next iPad 12th gen, expected Spring 2026 (March–May), will reportedly feature:
• Same chassis & base architecture as iPad (A16) (11th gen)
• A18 chip
• 8GB RAM
• Apple Intelligence support
Apple Intelligence comes to base iPad.…pic.twitter.com/aIVzZyhRu0
Market positioning and comparison with current line
The iPad 12 aims to attract users looking for the more affordable Apple model. With the A18, it matches premium devices in AI capabilities, closing the gap left by the iPad 11. Isso benefits students, families and consumers who prioritize value for money.
Unlike initial rumors that cited A19, recent sources confirm A18 as the choice. The processor derives from the family used in recent iPhones, ensuring future compatibility with software updates.
Details about the A18 chip and expected features
The A18 brings an improved neural engine for artificial intelligence tasks. Recursos such as smart writing, image generation and photo editing are supported directly on the device. Apple focuses on privacy, processing most operations locally without constantly sending them to servers.
The transition to the A18 aligns the entry-level iPad with the current Apple ecosystem. Modelos older versions without AI support are limited to basic iPadOS functions.
Availability and projected price
The launch should take place without major price changes compared to the iPad 11. Opções of storage starts at 128 GB, with variants Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi + Cellular. Sales begin in global markets shortly after the official announcement.
Apple maintains a strategy of regular updates to keep the affordable line competitive. iPad 12 completes the adoption of Apple Intelligence across the entire iPad family.
