Summary created by Smart Answers AI
In summary:
- Macworld reports that Apple’s entry-level iPad may soon receive Apple Intelligence features powered by a new A18 processor, upgrading from the current A16 chip.
- The update aims to expand the availability of artificial intelligence among Apple’s best-selling devices, bringing the low-cost iPad in line with iPhones and Macs that already support the features.
- No major design changes are expected, with an emphasis on internal upgrades that will boost AI adoption among mainstream users.
Apple boss Tim Cook has repeatedly stated that the company is committed to (and excited about) AI technology, but not every Apple product has gotten that message. While every iPhone and Mac currently sold supports Apple Intelligence, the entry-level iPad is still unable to run any of Apple’s AI features.
However, according to a new report, the base iPad will soon receive an update that will give it the capacity to run Apple Intelligence features, bringing it in line with the rest of Apple’s lineup (minus the Apple Watch, of course). And most importantly, encourage a large portion of the company’s customers to use its AI technology.
In the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman discusses at length what he describes as a “bunch” of product launches that Apple has in store for us “over the next few weeks.” That includes updates to the iPhone, Mac and iPad lines, but most iPad announcements will be fairly small, he warns.
“For those waiting for design changes,” writes Gurman, “prepare for disappointment: Little is new to the iPad family this year except for faster processors.”
The exceptions, he writes, are the OLED screen coming to the new iPad mini (probably later in the year) and the upgrade of the standard iPad to AI-ready status thanks to the inclusion of Apple’s A18 processor over the current A16. Gurman predicts that this upgrade will be the centerpiece of the iPad’s marketing campaign.
It makes sense that Apple would like to finally complete the suite and bring the standard iPad to Apple Intelligence. The company’s cheapest products are its best sellers for obvious reasons, so the best way to increase usage of the new feature is to make sure those products support it. Hence the (somewhat unreasonable) push to get Apple Intelligence on the iPhone 16e last year.
In fact, it was a surprise in many ways that the iPad 2025 No get AI and make it more expensive. More than a year ago, the source confidently predicted that it would. That source’s name was Mark Gurman.
So it pays to remain skeptical until the announcement is actually made… but this time he’s probably right. Keep up with all the latest news and rumors with our frequently updated New iPad 2026 Super Guide.