Last updated: . This article is reviewed whenever Apple makes an announcement or reliable reporting changes the expected iPad 12 timeline. Unconfirmed details are clearly labeled as rumors.
Quick Answer
Apple has not announced the iPad 12, and the latest reliable reporting says the entry-level tablet is now expected in the first quarter of 2027 at the earliest—not in 2026.
The biggest expected upgrade is an A18 or A19-class chip with Apple Intelligence support. If you need an affordable iPad now, the current iPad with A16 is still suitable for school, streaming and everyday tasks. If Apple Intelligence and longer-term performance matter more, waiting may be worthwhile.
The iPad 12 was originally rumored for Apple’s spring 2026 product cycle. Apple launched a new iPad Air and other hardware instead, leaving the entry-level iPad unchanged.
Early reports then suggested an April or May release. That window has also passed, and newer reporting now points to a substantially longer delay.
When Is the iPad 12 Coming Out?
The iPad 12 currently has no official release date. Apple has not confirmed the product name, specifications or launch schedule.
The latest reporting cited by MacRumors says the next entry-level iPad is planned for the first quarter of 2027 at the earliest.
That means a September or late-2026 launch is no longer the most likely scenario. “At the earliest” is also important: early 2027 is a reported window, not a confirmed Apple release date.
Updated iPad 12 timeline
- Early 2026: Rumored to launch alongside Apple’s spring products.
- March 2026: The new iPad Air arrived, but the base iPad was absent.
- April–May 2026: The revised rumored window passed without an announcement.
- Latest expectation: First quarter of 2027 at the earliest.
The delay should not be interpreted as a cancellation. Current reports still indicate that Apple is developing a replacement for the entry-level iPad with A16.
What Upgrades Are Expected for the iPad 12?
The iPad 12 is expected to be an internal upgrade rather than a major redesign. Its most important change would be a newer chip capable of supporting Apple Intelligence.
| Feature | Latest expectation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Release date | First quarter of 2027 at the earliest | Reported, not confirmed |
| Processor | A18 or A19-class chip | Reports currently conflict |
| Apple Intelligence | Expected to be supported | Likely, but not announced |
| Memory | Expected increase to 8GB | Rumored |
| Display | Approximately 11-inch Liquid Retina LCD | Expected to remain similar |
| Design | Flat edges, Touch ID top button and landscape camera | No major redesign expected |
| Connectivity | Possible newer Apple wireless or cellular chips | Unconfirmed |
| Starting price | No official price | $449 is a possible reference point, not a confirmed price |
Will the iPad 12 use an A18 or A19 chip?
This is still unsettled. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman previously reported that the entry-level iPad would use the A18 chip, while separate reporting has pointed to an A19 chip.
Both options would represent a meaningful upgrade over the current A16. They would also give Apple a path to add Apple Intelligence to its least expensive iPad.
Will the iPad 12 support Apple Intelligence?
Apple Intelligence support is expected, but Apple has not confirmed it for the iPad 12.
The current entry-level iPad with A16 is the main model in Apple’s modern iPad lineup that does not support Apple Intelligence. The iPad Pro, iPad Air and current iPad mini offer support on compatible hardware.
If the new base iPad receives an A18 or A19 chip with the expected memory upgrade, it should be capable of features such as Writing Tools, notification summaries, Image Playground, Genmoji and supported Siri enhancements.
Feature availability can still vary by language, region and software version.
Will the iPad 12 have a new design or OLED display?
A major redesign is not currently expected. Reports suggest Apple will continue using an approximately 11-inch LCD display, flat-sided enclosure, Touch ID top button and landscape front camera.
OLED, ProMotion and a fully laminated display remain more likely to be reserved for higher-priced iPad models.
iPad 11 vs iPad 12: Should You Buy Now or Wait?
The current model is officially sold as the 11-inch iPad with A16 and is commonly called the iPad 11th generation.
It already includes an 11-inch Liquid Retina display, 128GB starting storage, USB-C, landscape Center Stage camera and Apple Pencil support. Apple’s official specifications confirm that it uses the A16 chip and does not list Apple Intelligence support.
| Buying question | iPad with A16 | Rumored iPad 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Can you buy it now? | Yes | No; not announced |
| Chip | A16 | A18 or A19 expected |
| Apple Intelligence | Not supported | Expected |
| Display upgrade | 11-inch LCD | Major change not expected |
| Best for | Buying now, school, streaming and everyday use | AI features, newer games and longer-term performance |
Wait for the iPad 12 if:
- You already have a usable tablet and can wait until at least early 2027.
- You specifically want Apple Intelligence on the least expensive iPad.
- You want a newer chip for demanding games or longer software longevity.
- You would regret buying the A16 model shortly before its replacement appears.
Buy the current iPad now if:
- You need an iPad now for school, work, travel or entertainment.
- Your main tasks are browsing, video, reading, notes and regular apps.
- You do not consider Apple Intelligence essential.
- You find the A16 iPad at a meaningful discount.
If you need Apple Intelligence immediately, an iPad Air, iPad mini or iPad Pro with supported hardware is a more direct option than waiting for an unannounced product.
What is confirmed? Apple confirms the current base iPad’s A16 chip, 11-inch display and other specifications. The iPad 12 name, early-2027 release window, A18/A19 chip, 8GB memory and price remain based on reporting or industry expectations until Apple makes an official announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iPad 12 coming out in 2026?
The latest reliable reporting no longer points to a 2026 release. The next entry-level iPad is now expected in the first quarter of 2027 at the earliest.
When will Apple release the iPad 12?
Apple has not announced a release date. Early 2027 is the current reported window, but it should not be treated as a confirmed launch date.
Why was the iPad 12 delayed?
Apple has not provided an official explanation. Claims involving component costs, product scheduling or supply constraints remain speculation unless Apple or stronger supply-chain reporting confirms them.
Will the iPad 12 have an A18 or A19 chip?
Reports currently conflict. Some point to the A18, while others suggest the A19. Apple has not confirmed either processor.
Will the iPad 12 support Apple Intelligence?
Apple Intelligence support is expected because both rumored chip options can support it. However, the feature remains unconfirmed until Apple announces the device.
Should I buy the iPad 11 or wait for the iPad 12?
Buy the current A16 iPad if you need an affordable tablet now and mainly use standard apps, video and school tools. Wait if your current device still works and Apple Intelligence or longer-term performance is important to you.
Will iPad 11 cases fit the iPad 12?
The design may remain similar, but case compatibility cannot be guaranteed before Apple confirms the new model’s exact dimensions, camera position and button layout.
