Apple could be preparing a major refresh of its iPad lineup. According to new information shared by tipster Gurman, the 12th-generation entry iPad and the 8th-generation iPad Air may arrive very soon. The leak also hints at a possible display upgrade for the iPad mini.
Here’s what might be coming.
iPad 12 May Finally Get Apple Intelligence
The biggest surprise is for the budget iPad.
Reports suggest the entry-level iPad 12 will feature the A18 chip, a huge jump from the previous A16 model. If true, this would allow the tablet to support Apple Intelligence for the first time.
Earlier base iPads were left behind in AI features, but this upgrade would bring them closer to the rest of Apple’s ecosystem.
Expected highlights:
- A18 processor
- Apple Intelligence support
- Performance closer to premium iPads
This could make the affordable iPad much more attractive for students and casual users.
iPad Air 8 Could Jump to the M4 Chip
The iPad Air 8 is rumored to receive a serious power boost by moving directly to Apple’s M4 chipset.
That would mean laptop-class performance in a thinner and lighter design, ideal for creators and multitaskers.
However, not everything may change.
Leaks say Apple might still keep the same 60Hz IPS display, as the overall design and manufacturing mold are reportedly unchanged.
What to expect:
- Apple M4 chip
- Big performance upgrade
- Likely still 60Hz LCD panel
iPad Mini May Bring the Biggest Visual Change
If you are waiting for a display revolution, the iPad mini might be the device to watch.
Rumors indicate Apple could finally switch to an OLED screen this year. That would mean:
- Better contrast
- Deeper blacks
- Improved colors
But there is still uncertainty about whether the refresh rate will remain 60Hz.
Launch Timeline
While an exact launch date is not confirmed, sources suggest the announcement could happen soon, possibly within the next Apple hardware cycle.
What This Means for Buyers
If these leaks are accurate:
- Budget buyers get AI features.
- Air users get massive desktop-class power.
- Mini fans may enjoy OLED quality.
Apple would be aligning its entire iPad family more closely than ever before.
