The iPad lineup saw a significant refresh in 2024 with new versions of the iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. Conspicuously absent was the standard iPad, which hasn’t seen an update in almost three years. However, this is expected to change in the coming months. Reports suggest Apple is planning to launch a new iPad alongside the iPhone SE 4 in spring 2025.
What to Expect from the 11th-Generation iPad
Details about the upcoming iPad remain scarce, but some information has surfaced. The new tablet is anticipated to support Apple Intelligence, a feature present in all 2024 iPads. This implies the 11th-generation iPad will likely boast a newer A-series chip and at least 8GB of RAM, aligning it with the current performance standards of Apple’s tablet lineup.
One feature not expected in the new iPad is Apple’s upcoming custom 5G modem. This chip is rumored to debut in the iPhone SE 4 before being integrated into the iPhone 17 series later in the fall of 2025.
iOS 18.3 and Beyond
Apple recently released iOS 18.2, introducing Apple Intelligence features like Image Playground, Genmoji, and Siri-ChatGPT integration to compatible devices. The subsequent iOS 18.3 beta suggests fewer new features in that update, although additions are possible before its official release. This likely means the focus for iOS 18.3 will be on refining existing features and improving overall system performance and stability, rather than introducing groundbreaking new functionalities.
A Brief History of the iPad
The original iPad launched in 2010, initially available in a single size. The iPad mini debuted in 2012, expanding the lineup. The first iPad Air temporarily replaced the standard iPad in 2013, followed by the introduction of the iPad Pro in 2015. The standard iPad returned in 2017 with the fifth-generation model and has seen regular updates since, with the 10th generation being the most recent. The standard iPad currently holds the position as Apple’s most affordable tablet, starting at $349.
Potential Launch Date
The new iPad and iPhone SE 4 could launch as early as March 2025, with iOS 18.3 potentially arriving even sooner, perhaps as early as next month. This timeline aligns with Apple’s traditional spring release window and suggests consumers won’t have to wait long to experience these new products.
Conclusion
While specific details are still limited, the anticipated launch of a new standard iPad in spring 2025, alongside the iPhone SE 4, promises a refreshing update to Apple’s entry-level tablet. With expected support for Apple Intelligence and other enhancements, the 11th-generation iPad is poised to offer a compelling combination of performance and affordability. The upcoming release of iOS 18.3 further adds to the anticipation, promising a refined and optimized user experience across compatible Apple devices.