Apple's iPad roadmap: What to expect from next year's lineup
What's the story
Apple officially launched the new M5 iPad Pro last month, signaling the start of a new iPad series. While the latest model doesn't come with any major upgrades, it does give us an idea of what to expect from future releases. The first major launch in 2026 is expected to be the next iPad Air model, which will likely feature Apple's M4 chip for improved performance and connectivity.
Performance boost
iPad Air to get Apple's M4 chip
The upcoming iPad Air is expected to be powered by Apple's M4 chip, which would offer a 10-20% performance boost over the current M3. The device may also get Apple's in-house modem and networking chips for improved cellular connectivity and Wi-Fi 7 support. However, apart from these internal chip upgrades, there are no major changes expected for the M4 iPad Air model.
Spec upgrade
Budget iPad to receive A18 chip
The budget iPad, which usually retails at $349 but often goes on sale for $299, is expected to get an upgrade with the A18 chip. This wouldn't just be a spec bump, but would also bring Apple Intelligence capabilities to the device for the first time. Like iPad Air, this model is also likely to get Apple's in-house N1 chip and C1X modems for improved performance and connectivity.
Mini upgrade
iPad mini to get A19 Pro chip
The iPad mini, which hasn't been refreshed since 2024, is expected to get a major upgrade with the A19 Pro chip. The device is also likely to feature OLED technology for the first time. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has reported that Apple is considering the iPad mini as its next major product for this transition, which was first introduced in early 2024 with the M4 model of iPad Pro.