Apple is preparing to launch a refreshed low-cost iPad next week with meaningful internal upgrades while keeping the familiar design. The 12th-generation model will retain the same 11-inch edge-to-edge display with Touch ID Side Button and thick bezels that debuted with the 10th-generation version. This marks Apple's first major update to its affordable tablet since 2025.

Under the hood, the new iPad will likely feature Apple's A19 chip, the same processor used in the iPhone 17. Built on a 3-nanometer process, the A19 brings significant improvements over the current A16 chip, including support for Apple Intelligence features that were unavailable on last year's model. The upgrade also includes hardware-accelerated ray tracing for better gaming performance, though Apple will need to increase RAM from 6GB to 8GB to fully support Apple Intelligence capabilities.

The device is expected to maintain its current $349 starting price for the 128GB model, with no major changes to the rear camera, front camera, USB-C port, or accessory compatibility. While the N1 chip with Wi-Fi 7 support might be reserved for premium devices, the addition of Apple's A19 processor represents the most significant upgrade to Apple's entry-level tablet in years, bringing it closer to feature parity with higher-end models.