Apple's next low-cost iPad is reportedly set to receive a substantial hardware upgrade, with details found in Apple code pointing to an A19 chip, 8GB of RAM, the company's C1X modem, and an N1 networking chip. The information was identified by Aaron Perris and largely matches specifications previously discussed in rumors.

The device is expected to be the 12th-generation standard iPad. Apple has not announced a release date, and current expectations point to a launch in spring 2027 rather than later this year.

A19 chip brings Apple Intelligence support

The current 11th-generation iPad uses Apple's A16 chip and includes 6GB of RAM. Moving to the A19 would provide a notable performance improvement, but the more important change may be support for Apple Intelligence.

The A19 supports Apple's artificial intelligence features, while the existing iPad 11 lacks access to Apple Intelligence and related Siri capabilities. The reported increase to 8GB of RAM is also significant because that is the minimum memory requirement for Apple Intelligence.

Additional memory could improve general responsiveness as well, although the available details do not specify any other performance changes.

C1X modem and N1 chip expand connectivity

The reported iPad 12 specifications also include Apple's C1X modem. The modem supports sub-6GHz 5G networks and is more power-efficient than the Qualcomm modem used in the current iPad.

Apple's N1 networking chip is expected to add support for Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread. Those connectivity upgrades would give the entry-level iPad access to newer wireless standards, although the code details do not indicate whether every model will include cellular connectivity.

Possible price and release timing

Apple raised the current iPad's starting price to $449 in June 2026. The next model will likely retain that starting price, but Apple has not confirmed pricing or availability.

New colors are also possible, though no color information was found in the code. Until Apple makes an announcement, the reported hardware details and timing should be treated as unconfirmed.

Apple is expected to update the iPad mini before the end of October. That model is reportedly being prepared with an A20 Pro chip, a new speaker system, and a landscape-oriented front camera. Earlier rumors have also pointed to an OLED display as the iPad mini's main upgrade.