The basic iPad is about to take the biggest step in recent years. While the iPad Pro and iPad Air receive constant updates, the base model has always maintained a more conservative profile. And although in 2022 the design has completely changed, its A14 processor was somewhat laggingsince it integrated a two-year-old processor (2020 and iPhone 12). This means that in 2025 the base iPad will not be compatible with Apple Intelligence and, according to Mark Gurman, the new 11th generation iPad will break this trend with an update that will place him on the same level as his older brothers.
An unprecedented leap in power for the most basic iPad
Mark Gurman confirmed that the upcoming 11th generation iPad will feature the chip A17 Pro and 8 GB of RAMthe same assembly that assembles the current iPad mini. This change is not a simple update. That means moving from an A14 Bionic with 4GB of RAM to a configuration that will allow Apple Intelligence to work flawlessly. This power gain will not only improve overall performance, but will open the door to new features which until now were reserved for the highest models, such as the iPad Air or the iPad Pro.
Apple will keep the current iPad design with its 10.9-inch screen, which makes sense given that it was completely renewed in 2022. The current design, which has already removed the Home button and adopted straighter edges, will continue to serve as the basis for this new generation. However, we could see new colors, as happened with the renewal of AirPods Max, moving towards more pastel or deeper tones (like the iPhone 16), instead of such intense colors.
The internal innovations of the iPad 11 are the ones that will really make the difference
After more than two years without an update, many are waiting for this iPad with great desire. And even more so after reading the data on iOS 19 and iPadOS 19, where the compatibility of at least one iPad model will be reduced. Rumors suggest that the iPad 11 will have these specifications:
- A17 Pro chip and 8 GB of RAM for compatibility with Apple Intelligence
- Wi-Fi 6E for faster, more stable connections
- Apple's first 5G modem, like the iPhone SE 4
- Possible increase in base storage to 128 GB
The big unknown is the price. The current iPad 10 fell to 399 dollars in May 2024, positioning itself as a really attractive option on the market. With the substantial improvements that the new model will incorporate, notably the A17 Pro chip and the 8 GB of RAM, the question arises whether Apple will maintain this very aggressive price or increase it again. Regardless, even with a slight increase, the the value for money looks exceptional. This is perhaps between 429 and 459 dollars.
Apple iPad 10.9-inch (Wi-Fi, 64GB) – Silver (10th generation)
*Some prices may have changed since the last review
iPad 11 production is about to begin
According to Bloomberg sources, Apple would launch the new base iPad in spring 2025, probably between March and April. Along with the device there will also be a new Magic Keyboard specific to this model. This accessory could turn the basic iPad into a real laptop alternative for many users, including students and professionals looking for versatility at a reasonable price.
This update to the base iPad is crucial for several reasons: First, because it democratizes Apple Intelligence. This will bring Apple's AI features to a more accessible price point, providing the cheapest way to access Apple's artificial intelligence. In addition, The jump from A14 to A17 Pro is huge in terms of power. And we already know that a more powerful chip guarantees updates for several years. All of this will help Apple maintain its dominance in the tablet market.
A14 vs. A17 Pro Geekbench score
For those who don't need features as professional as the iPad Pro (or iPad Air), this new basic iPad and its probable price around 400 dollars They can become the perfect option to enter the Apple ecosystem or update a previous model. The combination of a powerful chip, compatibility with Apple Intelligence and a more than reasonable price could make this iPad one of Apple's most important launches in 2025.
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