Apple's Next Entry-Level iPad Tipped for A19 Chip, 8GB Memory and Wi-Fi 7

The device Apple sells today is the A16 iPad, which has gone untouched for well over a year and remains the only product in Apple's core lineup without Apple Intelligence support. Rumors had circulated for some time about an A18 model arriving this year. The newer leak points to a larger step than that.

The A19 details come from MacRumors contributor Aaron Perris, as cited by 9to5Mac. The same report says the tablet will be equipped with 8GB of memory, which is enough to run Siri AI but not the most capable local models or the more advanced dictation models, both of which require 12GB.

On timing, 9to5Mac suggests the launch delays are likely tied to the memory crisis affecting the electronics industry, and speculates that Apple may have roadmapped an A18 refresh for earlier this year alongside the debut of the M4 iPad Air before pushing it back. Apple raised the price of the base iPad from $349 to $449 this summer along with its other memory-related price increases, returning the device to the price it launched at in 2022.

A name change is also possible. After the debut of the MacBook Neo, Apple marketing executive Greg Joswiak said that calling the machine simply "MacBook" would leave it without an identity. 9to5Mac writes that it hopes the next entry-level iPad receives a comparable label such as "SE" or "Neo" so there is something specific to call it.

The report says buyers should not expect a redesign or display improvements, and possibly nothing beyond new color options. 9to5Mac's writer adds that he would like Apple to bring USB 3 to the product so users avoid its slow transfer speeds, arguing it would help justify the higher starting price.

On availability, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has said the next budget iPad should be released next spring, alongside products including the M6 MacBook Air, an A19 Pro MacBook Neo and an M7 14-inch MacBook Pro.