A report from MacWorld suggests that the upcoming iPad 12th generation could see significant performance improvements with a new chip.
The new model is expected to include several upgrades that will bring its performance closer to the mid-tier iPad Air. The report indicates that it will feature Apple’s forthcoming 3nm A19 chip, which is also anticipated to be used in the standard iPhone 17. This marks a manufacturing advancement from the current 11th generation model, which employs the 4nm A16 Bionic chip.
Additionally, the device is rumored to increase its RAM from 6 GB to 8 GB. This change could enable more advanced on-device artificial intelligence capabilities that are currently available in higher-end iPad models. While there may be no change in storage capacity for the 2025 model, the new iPad might include Apple’s N1 wireless chip with support for WiFi 7, enhancing connectivity features comparable to the iPad Air.
Apple usually follows an annual release cycle for its base iPad, with the last model launching in March 2025. Thus, the 12th generation iPad is expected around March 2026. However, industry experts note that ongoing memory supply constraints could impact this timeline.
Current market conditions with rising memory prices may also lead to increased manufacturing costs. If these predictions hold true, the 12th generation iPad would represent one of the most significant updates in recent years, providing improved processing power, increased memory, and updated wireless connectivity while maintaining its position in Apple’s tablet lineup.

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