Apple is preparing to launch new iPad models in the near future, including the 12th-generation iPad and 8th-generation iPad Air, according to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman. The upcoming devices will focus primarily on processor upgrades rather than design changes, with the entry-level iPad receiving the A18 chip and the iPad Air getting the more powerful M4 chip.

These processor updates are particularly significant for the iPad, which will gain Apple Intelligence support for the first time. The current 11th-generation iPad, released in March 2025 with the A16 chip, notably lacks this capability despite Apple Intelligence being available across other Apple devices. The iPad mini is expected to receive a more substantial upgrade later this year with a transition to OLED display technology.

The timing of these updates comes as the iPad saw strong holiday sales, driven largely by the entry-level model. Apple reportedly plans to market the new entry-level iPad heavily to enterprise customers, suggesting a strategic push into business markets. The iPad Air's upgrade to the M4 chip represents a significant performance boost that could help Apple compete more effectively in the mid-range tablet market.

These updates reflect Apple's strategy of maintaining its tablet lineup's competitiveness through regular processor refreshes while reserving more dramatic changes for specific models. The addition of Apple Intelligence to the iPad lineup addresses a notable gap in the company's ecosystem and could help drive upgrades among existing iPad users who have been waiting for this capability.

Quick Fact: Apple announced the 11th-generation iPad in March 2025 with the A16 chip.