Apple’s rumored new low-cost iPad could come with two big changes that current devices can’t touch. Rumor has it that Apple’s low-cost iPad will come with an A18 chip, based on code references leaked on Wednesday. MacRumors reported the rumor on Thursday, just weeks ahead of Apple’s rumored Sept. 9 event, where the iPhone 17 is expected to be revealed.
Here’s what we’ve gathered so far, but we won’t know the details until Apple makes its official announcement.
The big difference from the current iPad
The latest iPad has an A16 processor, which is faster than previous generations but doesn’t support Apple Intelligence, which is Apple’s own AI.
There’s a rumor that the upcoming iPad could bring the best of both worlds together, if Apple adds the A18 chip to give the new iPad more functionality.
What’s so special about the A18 chip?
The A16 chip is already a faster processor with better performance compared to previous versions, but it’s not enough for Apple Intelligence. The upgrade could mean even better speed and performance, but the big difference is the capability for Apple Intelligence features that the A16 chip cannot handle.
The A18 chip isn’t new to Apple. It’s already in the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus and iPhone 16e. Apple’s upcoming low-cost MacBook is also expected to have the A18 Pro processor, a report says.
When will Apple release its new iPad?
Apple hasn’t confirmed that the new low-cost iPad is coming, but MacRumors pointed out that Apple usually releases iPads in the first half of the year. The current 11th generation iPad was released in March 2025. It’s likely we’ll know more about the cost, features and specs soon.
