Apple’s cheapest iPad might finally catch up on performance

Apple’s entry-level iPad has always been about value, but performance wasn’t its strongest suit. The company’s Pro models offered much higher horsepower with their M-series chips.

But the 2026 iPad might finally be getting the boost it needs.

A new report suggests that the upcoming 12th Gen iPad will feature Apple’s A18 chipset, marking a significant jump in performance over the current model’s A16 chip. So it’s shaping up to be one of the more meaningful upgrades Apple’s bringing to its base iPad in years.

What to expect from Apple’s 2026 iPad?

The details were revealed in an ESR tech listing for a ‘paper-feel’ screen protector for the new iPad’s 11-inch display. And it even leaked the processor details.

The big new change is the A18 chip that could bring a 20%+ jump in performance over the previous generation. Even with single-core gains potentially reaching up to 30%. That’s a substantial leap for a device that’s typically aimed at students, casual users, and first-time iPad buyers. With the A18 Pro powering Apple’s cheapest MacBook, the capable 3nm chip with a 6-core CPU should bring better multitasking and smoother everyday performance.

Apple Intelligence might finally reach the cheapest iPad

It’s not just about the faster chip. The bigger implication of the upgrade is AI.

The new iPad might pack 8GB of RAM, enabling support for Apple Intelligence features. This is currently missing on the base iPad. Apple has been rolling out AI features across devices, and this update could finally bring it to the same level as Apple’s more premium devices.

No redesign in sight

But if you’re hoping for more substantial changes, visually speaking, the 2026 iPad might disappoint. Apple seems to be focusing on performance, since the listing showcases a familiar design consistent with the 2025 iPad.