Multiple reputable tech outlets report that iPad 12 could be unveiled as early as next week, likely as part of Apple’s early spring product refresh cycle. While Apple has not officially confirmed the event, several industry sources suggest a quiet press release launch or a short online announcement format.
At a Glance: iPad 12 Expected Specifications
| Feature | iPad 11 (2025) | iPad 12 (2026 Rumored) |
| Processor | A16 Bionic | A19 (3nm Process) |
| RAM | 6GB | 8GB (Required for Apple Intelligence) |
| AI Support | No | Full Apple Intelligence Support |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7 (N1 Wireless Chip) |
| Base Storage | 128GB | 128GB |
| Price | $349 | $349 (Expected) |
Expect Release Date
Industry analysts, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, suggest the iPad 12 will be announced via a press release on Monday or Tuesday (March 2–3), with hands-on sessions following on Wednesday.
What’s New? Key Features and iPad 12 Rumors You Need to Know
1. The Powerhouse Update: A19 Chip & 8GB RAM
The most disruptive rumor from sources like MacRumors is the jump to the A19 chip. Built on the advanced N3P (3nm) process, this puts the entry-level iPad 12 on the same performance tier as the iPhone 17.
To support the full suite of Apple Intelligence (including the new Siri 2.0 and Image Wand), Apple is expected to upgrade the memory to 8GB of RAM. This 33% increase from the previous 6GB ensures that the iPad 12 remains a high-performance multitasking machine for years to come.
2. Introducing the N1 Chip
For the first time in the base model's history, the iPad 12 is rumored to feature Apple's custom N1 Wireless Chip.
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Wi-Fi 7 Support: Experience the next generation of home networking with lower latency and higher speeds.
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Bluetooth 6.0: More stable connections for your AirPods and the Apple Pencil (USB-C).
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Efficiency: The N1 chip isn't just faster; it's more power-efficient, helping to maintain all-day battery life despite the more powerful A19 processor.
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3. Display and Design: Mostly Unchanged
Don’t expect a major redesign. Rumors suggest the iPad 12 will retain:
- 11-inch LCD display
- Similar resolution (~2360 × 1640)
- Flat-edge modern design
- Landscape front camera
- No OLED upgrade is expected at this price tier.
4. Cameras
The camera system is likely to remain unchanged:
- 12MP rear camera
- 12MP front-facing camera
This setup continues to support video calls, scanning documents, and basic photography without pushing into premium territory.
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5. Apple Intelligence Support
Perhaps the most important strategic shift: the iPad 12 is rumored to support Apple Intelligence.
If accurate, this would mark the first time Apple’s entry-level iPad fully supports the company’s on-device AI features, including:
- Smarter Siri capabilities
- AI-assisted writing tools
- Image and content generation features
- Context-aware system suggestions
This could make the base iPad far more future-proof than previous generations.
iPad 12 Price Rumors: What to Expect for Apple’s Most Affordable AI Tablet
There is currently no strong evidence suggesting a major price hike. However, based on the latest supply chain reports, users should expect Apple to maintain the $349 starting price
Given Apple’s strategy in recent years, analysts expect the iPad 12 to maintain a similar starting price to its predecessor, likely keeping it as the most budget-friendly option in the iPad lineup.
If Apple manages to add A19 + 8GB RAM + Apple Intelligence without increasing price significantly, this could become one of the best value tablets in 2026.
Should You Wait for iPad 12?
If you’re currently considering buying an entry-level iPad, waiting a few days may be wise.
The rumored upgrades — especially the A19 chip and AI support — suggest that iPad 12 could offer significantly better longevity compared to older models.
For students, families, and everyday users, this may become the smartest budget tablet option of 2026.
Final Thoughts
The iPad 12 isn't about a new look; it's about new brains. By bringing Apple Intelligence to its most affordable device, Apple is ensuring that "AI for the rest of us" is a reality in 2026.
