Apple's recent product announcements included several new devices, but notably absent was the iPad 12. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple was expected to unveil multiple products between March 2 and March 4, including the iPhone 17e, MacBook Pros, MacBook Airs, and updated iPad models. While Apple delivered on most of these expectations, the entry-level iPad refresh did not materialize.

Instead, Apple surprised with two additional products: an updated Studio Display and a higher-end Studio Display XDR. The iPad 12, which is still forthcoming, is rumored to feature significant upgrades over the iPad 11, including a faster A18 chip and Apple Intelligence support. Some speculation even suggests it might be powered by the latest A19 chip, though this remains unconfirmed.

The current iPad 11, released in March 2025 with an A16 chip, starts at $349 in the U.S. Apple Intelligence is already available on all other current-generation iPad models, including the iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. The delay in the iPad 12's release leaves consumers waiting for the next generation of Apple's popular tablet line.