Apple is reportedly preparing to launch up to three new iPad models early next year, following the release of the iPad mini and the iPhone Duo, according to a report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman via Engadget. The upcoming devices are expected to refresh the remainder of Apple’s tablet portfolio, which includes the entry-level iPad, the mid-range iPad Air, and the flagship iPad Pro.
Upgrades for the Base iPad and iPad Air
The standard, entry-level iPad is expected to receive support for Apple Intelligence by upgrading to the A19 processor alongside 8GB of RAM. Engadget notes the device will also incorporate Apple’s new N1 chip and C1X modem, providing capabilities such as Wi-Fi 7, sub-6 GHz 5G, faster network speeds, and lower battery consumption. Meanwhile, the iPad Air is set to transition to an OLED display to align with the iPad mini, alongside standard processor enhancements.
Performance and Cooling Improvements for the iPad Pro
The high-end iPad Pro will receive a processor upgrade from the M5, with potential movement toward an M6 or an unreleased M7 chip. To manage increased thermal output, especially during intensive artificial intelligence processing, the new model is expected to feature a vapor chamber for improved internal cooling, a feature initially rumored last year.
Apple continues to sell approximately 60 million iPads annually, securing their importance in the company’s hardware ecosystem despite potential market overlap from new touchscreen MacBook Pro models, the iPhone Duo, and the HomeView smart display.
