The next low-cost iPad will be equipped with an A19 chip, C1X modem, N1 networking chip, and 8GB RAM, according to details found in Apple's code by MacRumors contributor Aaron Perris.
We've heard some of these same specifications in prior rumors, so this is more of a confirmation than a new leak. The iPad 11 has an A16 chip, so the upgrade to the A19 in the 12th-generation iPad will bring a noticeable improvement in performance. More importantly, the A19 supports Apple Intelligence, so the iPad 12 will have all the Apple Intelligence and Siri AI features missing from the iPad 11.
The iPad 11 has 6GB RAM, but 8GB RAM is the minimum for Apple Intelligence, and the RAM boost will also speed things up.
Apple's C1X modem supports sub–6GHz 5G networks, and it is more efficient than the Qualcomm modem used in the existing iPad. The addition of the N1 networking chip will bring support for Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread.
Though not included in the code, it's possible the iPad 12 will be available in new colors.
There is no word on when Apple will release the new iPad, and at this point, we're not expecting it until spring 2027. The current iPad is priced starting at $449 after a June 2026 price hike, and the new model will likely have the same starting price.
There's no low-cost iPad coming this year, but Apple is expected to refresh the iPad mini before the end of October. We discovered new details about the iPad mini just this morning. It will have an A20 Pro chip, a new speaker system, and a landscape front-facing camera. Prior rumors say it will feature an OLED display as the main upgrade.
We also found official images of the Apple TV 4K and the HomePod mini, including its colors. The HomePod mini will come in green, pink, blue, white, and black.
