Apple’s entry-level iPad stands on the cusp of a major upgrade that could mirror the transformative boost seen with the iPhone 17. Recent leaks from an internal pre-release version of iPadOS 26 suggest the iPad 12, expected in 2026, will integrate the powerful A19 chip currently driving the standard iPhone 17. This shift promises to elevate the base iPad from a budget content consumption device to a more capable performer, potentially outshining its pricier siblings in value.
The current iPad 11, launched earlier this year, relies on the A16 chip from the 2022 iPhone 14 series, paired with 6GB of RAM and 128GB storage at a $349 starting price. While sufficient for streaming videos, web browsing, and light tasks, it trails behind the iPad Air and Pro models optimized for productivity, especially with iPadOS 26 enhancements that bring Mac-like multitasking. An A19 upgrade would deliver roughly a 50% performance leap, but the real game-changer lies in the expected 8GB RAM and advanced N1 wireless modem, enabling smoother Apple Intelligence features and faster connectivity without inflating costs.
iPhone 17’s Standout Features
The iPhone 17 has captivated buyers since its release, maintaining a $799 starting price despite premium upgrades that rival Pro models. It boasts the same high-refresh-rate display as the Pro variants, doubled base storage to 256GB, and the efficient A19 chip for superior multitasking and battery life. Camera enhancements on both front and rear deliver sharper photos and videos, while 8GB RAM ensures seamless AI processing. This specs surge, without a price hike, has led to consistent sell-outs, underscoring Apple’s strategy to deliver flagship experiences across its lineup.
Rumors swirl around the iPhone 18 potentially delaying to spring 2027, placing extra emphasis on the iPhone 17 to sustain excitement. For the iPad 12, similar motivations apply: future-proofing against advancing AI demands. Apple Intelligence lags competitors in some areas, prompting hardware investments like 16GB minimum RAM in Macs and 8-12GB in recent iPhones. The M3 iPad Air starts at 8GB, while M5 Pros scale to 16GB, so equipping the base iPad with A19 and 8GB would align it perfectly with iPhone 17 value, keeping the $349 tag intact.
iPad Lineup Comparison
| Model | Chip | RAM (Base) | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPad 11 (Current) | A16 | 6GB | $349 | Media consumption |
| iPad 12 (Leaked) | A19 | 8GB (expected) | $349 (expected) | AI tasks, multitasking |
| iPad Air (M3) | M3 | 8GB | $599 | Productivity, editing |
| iPad Pro (M5) | M5 | 12GB | $999 | Pro workflows |
Implications for Buyers and Apple Strategy
With iPadOS 26 blurring lines between tablet and laptop functionality, the A19-equipped iPad 12 could emerge as the sweet spot for most users, handling demanding apps, Stage Manager, and on-device AI without the Air’s premium. This move reflects Apple’s pattern of trickling high-end iPhone tech downward, as seen with the iPad 11’s RAM bump from 4GB. It counters Android tablets’ value propositions while bolstering ecosystem loyalty amid AI races.
Privacy-focused processing keeps data secure on-device, a hallmark of Apple’s approach. For students, families, or casual users, this upgrade means fluid performance at entry-level pricing. If leaks hold, 2026 heralds the iPad’s “iPhone 17 moment,” redefining budget tablets as intelligent powerhouses. Enthusiasts should watch WWDC 2026 for confirmations, but excitement builds for a device that punches far above its weight.
