In the coming days or weeks, everything points to the fact that Apple could make a move in the tablet market. ’s relationship with the announcement of two new iPad models.
Two new iPads on the horizon: base model and Air version
According to leaked information, Apple has already made significant progress in its preparations for to imminently unveil the iPad 12 and a new generation of iPad AirThese would be the next steps in the tablet range, with a continuation strategy but focused on making them more capable in everyday use.
The new iPad 12 would be positioned as the twelfth generation of the most affordable model within Apple's tablet catalog, focused on those looking for a versatile device without reaching the prices of the iPad Pro. The goal would be to maintain it as gateway to the ecosystembut updating it in power and, above all, in compatibility with the latest software features.
Meanwhile, the next-generation iPad Air would continue to serve as midway between the base model and the iPad ProCombining a lightweight design with performance that, on paper, rivals that of high-end devices, this approach is particularly appealing to university students, frequent travelers, and users who want more than a basic tablet without the high price tag of the most expensive models.
In both cases, Apple is expected to maintain a continuation of the previous line in terms of screen size and formatThere were no particularly striking changes to the chassis or external design. The big difference would be internal, with more modern chips and a wider range of features, especially related to artificial intelligence.
This renewal is being viewed with interest from Europe because iPads have become established as everyday tools This applies to both educational and light professional settings. A leap in performance and AI capabilities can make all the difference for training centers, businesses, and individual users looking to upgrade their equipment this year.
iPad 12 with A18 chip: more power and access to Apple Intelligence
One of the most relevant changes in the next basic model would be the adoption of A18 chip, the same one found in the iPhone 16 family (according Mactracker).
This processor upgrade would not only mean a notable increase in gross power and energy efficiencyBut it would also open the door to features that were previously unavailable on the entry-level iPad. The improved graphics performance would allow for better performance in games and creative applications, something increasingly demanded by younger users.
The change is especially significant considering that The last base iPad released by Apple integrated the A16 chipThat model, launched in March of last year, lacked compatibility with Apple Intelligence, leading many users to wonder whether it was worth upgrading or waiting for a generation better prepared for AI.
Many potential buyers decided to postpone their decision, aware that acquiring a device without access to the brand's new artificial intelligence features This could partially limit its lifespan. With the arrival of the A18 chip, the iPad 12 would reach the minimum level necessary to utilize these capabilities, which will likely lead many who were waiting to see this update in a new light.
In practice, this means that the iPad 12 will not only be faster, but It will be able to perform advanced content analysis functions, and it will be an intelligent assistant. and other tools that Apple is promoting within its ecosystem. For those who use the iPad as their primary device at home, this could be a compelling reason to upgrade.
iPad Air with M4 chip: one step closer to the iPad Pro
The other major protagonist of this next wave of releases would be a new iPad Air equipped with M4 chipThis processor, originally designed for high-end computers and devices, would bring the Air to a performance level very close to that of the latest iPad Pro, at least in terms of computing power.
With the M4, the iPad Air would gain much greater ease in demanding tasksThis includes tasks such as video editing, working with high-resolution photos, creating complex illustrations, or using multiple applications simultaneously in split-screen mode. This can be especially appealing to professionals seeking a lightweight device to complement, or in some cases replace, their laptop while on the go.
In addition to the increased power, the use of the M4 would result in improved capabilities for running artificial intelligence functions locallywithout relying so heavily on the cloud. This opens the door to more advanced productivity tools, assisted editing, and content analysis directly on the device, something Apple has been promoting for some time.
In the European context, where hybrid and remote work has become established, a iPad Air with near-computer performance It could be a good fit for those who need mobility, long battery life, and access to a well-established app ecosystem. While a drastic redesign isn't expected, the combination of power and form factor will remain one of its biggest selling points.
However, no clear details have yet emerged about Possible changes to the screen, battery life, or accessoriesMost of the leaks focus on the chip upgrade, so we'll have to wait for the official announcement to see if Apple introduces any surprises in areas like connectivity, compatibility with keyboards or styluses and multimedia capabilities.
Apple Intelligence: the big difference compared to the previous model
One of the key aspects of this update is that the The iPad 12 would become compatible with Apple IntelligenceThe company's artificial intelligence platform was unveiled in mid-2024 with great anticipation, but its rollout has been marked by some ups and downs and a somewhat uneven adoption rate.
Until now, the lack of support in the base model with the A16 chip left a significant portion of users outside of the new AI featuresTools such as assisted text generation, intelligent content classification, or some improvements in native applications were reserved for devices with newer processors.
With the arrival of the A18 in the iPad 12 and the M4 in the new iPad Air, Apple's tablet range It would align better with Apple Intelligence's technical requirements.This would allow more users to access these tools without having to upgrade to the Pro range. This could significantly change the perception of the iPad as a device for more than just entertainment.
In day-to-day operations, the integration of Apple Intelligence can mean more precise help in writing, task organization or document editing, which is especially useful for students and professionals who use the iPad as a digital notebook or work tool. The fact that many of these functions are processed on the device itself also has implications for privacy and response speed.
Despite everything, there are still users who remain cautious about these AI promises, remembering that The first versions of Apple Intelligence did not meet all expectations. generated in its announcement. Many expect that, with this new wave of compatible hardware, the company will take the opportunity to refine and expand its real-world capabilities.
User expectations: Is it enough to just change the chip?
Among the brand's followers, there is some debate about whether An update focused almost exclusively on the processor is sufficient. to justify the jump to these new models. Part of the community expected more noticeable improvements in aspects such as the screen, battery, or advanced imaging features.
One of the recurring wishes is the arrival of displays with ProMotion and 120Hz refresh rates This feature, previously reserved primarily for iPad Pro models, is now available on more affordable models. This technology makes the user experience smoother, especially when scrolling, playing games, and writing with the Apple Pencil.
The demands of larger batteries or more efficient systems that would allow for even longer usage hours, something especially valued by those who spend entire days away from home or the office. For now, leaks don't point to any major changes in this area, leaving some users with the feeling of limited development.
In terms of design, no major changes are expected, so those looking for a radical change in the external appearance of the iPads You probably won't find it in this generation. Apple seems to be opting for a more conservative update cycle, maintaining a familiar visual language and focusing on improving the internal components.
Even so, for some members of the public, the combination of greater power, access to Apple Intelligence, and relatively affordable prices This might be enough to make you consider buying one. Especially for those upgrading from older models or for families looking for a primary tablet for shared use at home.
Apple's stance and how it fits into its current catalog
The company's strategy seems to be in line with to reinforce what already works in its range of tabletsInstead of launching completely different products, Apple believes its iPads adequately meet the needs of most users, from those who simply want a device for entertainment to those who use it as a work tool.
This would explain why, at least for now, There are no apparent major efforts to revolutionize the design or introduce groundbreaking, exclusive features in these new models. The company is reportedly opting for a more gradual evolution, with performance improvements, AI compatibility, and minor adjustments to the user experience.
In Europe and in Spain, where Price remains a key factor when upgrading devicesMaintaining an accessible iPad with a relatively controlled cost can be crucial to remaining a popular option compared to tablets from other brands with different operating systems.
It remains to be seen how these new models will be officially positioned in the catalog, especially in relation to the iPad mini and the Pro versionsCurrently, reports indicate that the mini will receive an OLED screen sometime this year, making it the only iPad with this technology during 2026, but this move would follow a different schedule than the imminent releases.
In any case, the refresh of the iPad 12 and iPad Air comes at a time when Competition in the tablet segment remains intenseWith proposals based on Android and other systems that try to occupy similar price and performance niches, the European market's response will largely depend on the final balance between features, software support, and price.
Given this scenario, the general feeling is that Apple is about to take another step in updating its iPad lineup, prioritizing power and access to its artificial intelligence platform over dramatic design changes. For those who were planning to upgrade their tablet, These two new models could become an option to consider.provided that the official announcement confirms the expected improvements and maintains reasonably low prices for the current context.
