Apple's next entry-level iPad could drop numbers entirely and adopt a new naming scheme inspired by the recent MacBook Neo, according to comments from senior executives in a Tom's Guide interview. The company hasn't refreshed the base iPad – currently running an A16 chip – in over a year, with an A18-powered model expected in the coming months.

During the interview, Greg Joswiak explained why Apple avoided simply calling the new laptop 'MacBook.' He said doing so would have 'left it without an identity,' and they wanted something short that fit alongside Air and Pro while conveying newness. Since Neo literally means new or reinvention, it was the perfect fit. This marks a clear shift from Apple's vague naming approach.

The base iPad has suffered from this identity crisis – it went from numbered generations to simply 'iPad (A16)' with no clear place in the lineup. The iPhone 16e already ditched the SE moniker using similar logic. However, one complication remains: the next iPad won't feature a new design, as the current look dates back to 2022, which could mean Apple holds off on the Neo branding until a more substantial redesign arrives.