Islamabad, Dec 26: Apple’s entry-level iPad is expected to receive an update in Spring 2025, following the recent release of the iPad mini 7 with iPadOS 18. The new iPad model will reportedly run on iPadOS 18.3, which introduces Apple Intelligence features an advanced AI integration currently available on the iPad mini 7. However, there remains uncertainty about whether the new entry-level iPad will fully integrate these features, given the hardware requirements for Apple Intelligence.
Apple Intelligence requires a minimum of the A17 Pro chip paired with 8 GB of RAM, as seen in the iPad mini 7. This presents a challenge for the entry-level iPad, typically positioned as a more affordable option in Apple’s product lineup. If Apple incorporates the A17 Pro chip and 8 GB of RAM in the new model, the distinction between the entry-level iPad and the iPad mini 7 would blur, making the latter potentially redundant. On the other hand, using an older chip, such as the A16 series, would raise questions about the lack of Apple Intelligence on older devices like the iPhone 15 and iPhone 14 Pro, which also use the A16 chip.
The report, citing a reliable tipster, also suggests that the updated iPad will not feature Apple’s custom 5G modem. Instead, this technology will debut with the iPhone SE 4 and iPhone 17 Air. Alongside the iPad’s launch, Apple is expected to release the M3-powered iPad Air and the iPhone SE 4, making Spring 2025 a significant period for the company’s tablet and smartphone lineups.
