New Entry-Level iPad Expected in Spring 2026 with Faster Chip
I've been following Apple's moves for years, and it sounds like they're gearing up to refresh their entry-level iPad. According to reports, we might see a new 11-inch model as early as next spring. It's interesting to think about how Apple approaches these updates. They often focus on internal improvements, like a faster chip, while keeping the external design familiar. This makes sense, because it allows them to offer a performance boost without significantly increasing production costs.
The rumor mill suggests that Apple is working on two versions of this new iPad, codenamed J581 and J582. Now, it's just speculation, but it's plausible that this could point to different storage options. Perhaps Apple is considering ditching the base-level storage and offering larger capacities as standard. The current iPad 11 offers 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB options. This makes sense because, as apps become more advanced and media files grow larger, consumers may need more storage space.
While there's no concrete information about the processor, it's likely that the new iPad will feature a faster chip. The existing iPad 11 uses the A16 processor. It's safe to assume that Apple will integrate a newer generation chip to ensure a smoother user experience.
If the rumors are accurate, and Apple plans to release this new iPad in March or April 2026, it would be a relatively quick turnaround compared to their usual product cycles. The current models were released last March, so it's possible the company wants to keep the momentum going by offering a more powerful entry-level device.
Source: Mac Rumors