The wait for a new budget tablet from Apple now stretches well over two years, but the iPad 11 is apparently finally drawing near.
Here’s what to look forward to from the affordable slate expected to launch by spring.
This post contains affiliate links. Cult of Mac may earn a commission when you use our links to buy items.
iPad 11 rumors: The same, but faster
iPad revenue grew 15% year-over-year during the holiday shopping quarter, and Apple CEO Tim Cook partially credited the budget iPad 10 for the increase. That’s somewhat surprising considering the tablet launched in 2022. It clearly has enduring appeal.
An “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” attitude could explain the somewhat minimal changes rumored for the upcoming iPad 11. Expect the primary enhancements to be internal, including upgrades to the processor and RAM so it can run the suite of AI-powered features dubbed Apple Intelligence. These include tools that tweak users’ grammar and images, and can generate cutesy pictures based on user prompts.
The chip is almost certainly going to be the Apple A17 Pro — the same one popped into the new iPad mini 7 to give that model Apple Intelligence. For perspective, the current 10th generation version runs an A14 Bionic from 2020, so it would bring a significant speed boost. Just don’t expect an M-series processor, as those are reserved for pricier tablets.
And RAM should double from 4GB to 8GB.
Just don’t expect a full external redesign. The current model brought a larger, 10.9-inch screen, USB-C and other enhancements while kicking out the Home button. Rumors indicate iPad 11 keeps that design.
Coming soon-ish
Information leaking out of Apple indicates that the speed-boosted iPad 11 will be on the market by April. Theoretically, it could be the mystery product Tim Cook promised to launch on Wednesday, February 19, but that’s considered unlikely.
The previous model launched at $449 before permanently dropping the official price $100 last spring. The next-generation model could well debut at a lower cost, or it could go back to the higher one. Rumors have been quiet on this.
In the mean time, both Amazon and Best Buy offer 20%-off deals on the iPad 10, reducing the cost to $279.
Best budget iPad for years
Apple iPad (10th Generation)
4.5
The iPad 10th-generation is Apple’s best entry-level iPad for years. Completely redesigned, it has a modern, all-screen design, faster processor and better cameras. Everything you want in an iPad at an affordable price.
- Cool modern design
- Big 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display
- 12MP front and back cameras
- Wi-Fi 6 for fast streaming
- Limited 64GB storage
- No Apple Intelligence
