Apple plans to launch the iPad 11 in early 2025 alongside iPadOS 18.3. This entry-level model, last updated in 2022, reflects the company’s ongoing efforts to refresh its tablet lineup. According to MacRumors the device will debut in the spring, coinciding with the expected public release of iPadOS 18.3.
Anticipated features of the iPad 11
Sources say that the new iPad will be released early next year, likely during the rollout of iPadOS 18.3. This update, which supports various new features, may include vital under-the-hood enhancements to accommodate the new iPad model.
The iPad 11 is also reported to integrate Apple’s first wireless modem, providing improved Wi-Fi and 5G capabilities. While initial discussions suggested a continuation of the A14 chip from the iPad 10, additional insights confirm this was merely a prototype for testing the new modem. The final design is expected to feature a more advanced chip, possibly the A17 Pro, which aligns with the technological advancements in Apple’s iPad mini.
During the current pricing cycle, the iPad 10 is sold at $349, although prices may dip to around $279 on platforms such as Amazon. Prospective buyers might do well to forgo immediate purchases in favor of waiting for the iPad 11 release. Alongside the new iPad, Apple is rumored to unveil the iPhone SE 4 and an updated iPad Air, suggesting a strategic product launch event in the upcoming months.
In 2023, Apple refrained from introducing new iPads, despite notable updates to the iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro. The absence of updates for the standard iPad highlights a significant gap in Apple’s tablet offerings, but this is likely to change in early 2025. As previously reported by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the entry-level model’s support for Apple Intelligence indicates an upgraded chip with at least 8GB of RAM would be a necessity.
With the recent release of iOS 18.2, Apple has implemented a variety of Apple Intelligence features across devices, including Image Playground and Siri-ChatGPT integration. The forthcoming beta of iOS 18.3 may offer fewer new features, signaling potentially minor upgrades before the final version’s release.
Apple has maintained a consistent iPad lineup since the first model’s introduction in 2010. Initially featuring one size, the iPad lineup rapidly expanded with the introduction of the iPad mini and iPad Air. The reintroduction of the standard iPad in 2017 marked a renewed commitment to accessibility within its tablet offerings. As of now, the iPad continues to serve as Apple’s most affordable tablet option.
Featured image credit: Kerem Gülen/Ideogram
