iPad 11 Rumors: Everything We Know About Apple’s Next Budget Tablet
Apple’s most affordable iPad has gone over two years without a major upgrade, still running on the aging A14 Bionic chip from 2020. While Apple did lower its price from $449 to $349 last year, a true refresh has been long overdue. Fortunately, that wait may soon be over.
This spring, Apple is expected to unveil the iPad 11, bringing much-needed upgrades to its entry-level tablet for the first time in over two years. Here’s what we might see in this long-awaited update.
Apple Intelligence Coming to the Next-Gen Entry-Level iPad
The upcoming 11th-generation iPad is expected to bring a major performance boost, likely featuring the A17 Pro chip from the iPhone 15 Pro. With this upgrade, the new iPad could support Apple Intelligence, unlocking a range of powerful AI-driven features.
Users may get access to tools like notification summaries, Image Playground, Genmoji, an upgraded Siri, and ChatGPT integration, making the iPad more intuitive and capable than ever. If Apple sticks to its expected spring launch, these AI features should be fully rolled out by then, ensuring the new iPad is ready to take full advantage of them.
Upgraded Connectivity for the iPad 11
The next-generation entry-level iPad is expected to receive a significant connectivity upgrade, with support for Wi-Fi 6E (or possibly Wi-Fi 7) and Bluetooth 5.3.These improvements would enhance wireless performance, reduce latency, and provide a more reliable connection compared to the current model, which is limited to Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.
Additionally, the cellular version of the iPad 11 may introduce Apple’s first in-house 5G modem, marking a major step toward reducing reliance on third-party suppliers. If this happens, it could lead to better power efficiency and improved network speeds, setting the stage for Apple to expand its custom modem technology to higher-end devices in the future.
A New Magic Keyboard for the iPad 11?
Apple is reportedly developing a more affordable Magic Keyboard for iPads, and the upcoming iPad 11 could be one of the first devices to support it. Unlike the folio-style keyboard used with the iPad 10, this new accessory is expected to feature a more traditional laptop-like design, offering improved typing comfort and stability.
If released alongside the iPad 11, this keyboard could make the entry-level iPad a more versatile option for students, professionals, and everyday users looking for a budget-friendly productivity setup.
Expected Release Date for the iPad 11
The iPad 11 is anticipated to launch this spring, alongside other Apple devices like the new iPhone SE and iPad Air. While the design is expected to remain similar to the 2022 model, the biggest upgrade will likely be a faster processor for improved performance.
If Apple sticks to this timeline, the current entry-level iPad will have gone 2.5 years without an update, making this refresh long overdue. With new features and better hardware, the iPad 11 could be a solid upgrade for those looking for an affordable Apple tablet.
