Apple not too long ago launched a brand new iPad Professional with the M5 chip, and we additionally obtained the M3 iPad Air together with the A16 iPad earlier this 12 months. With 2026 simply across the nook, there are already rumors about what to anticipate for the iPad lineup subsequent 12 months—and Macworld now has robust proof of what’s coming.
An inside Apple code doc seen by Macworld has revealed the corporate’s plans for the 2026 iPad lineup, which incorporates an up to date entry-level iPad with an A19 chip and an iPad Air with a quicker chip.
A19 iPad
The entry-level iPad mannequin is predicted to obtain a big spec bump. In accordance with reliable Apple code for an inside pre-release construct of iOS 26 seen by Macworld, there’s a brand new model of this iPad beneath the codenames J581 and J582 that shall be powered by the A19 chip, the identical processor inside the present iPhone 17.
The Eleventh-generation iPad has an A16 chip, which is loads highly effective for on a regular basis duties, however notably lacks help for Apple Intelligence. The A19 chip is about 50 p.c quicker than the A16, and likewise has extra RAM (8GB vs. 6GB), which makes it higher for multitasking and AI-based options. This can deliver the iPad nearer to the premium fashions and future-proof it for upcoming Apple Intelligence options.
The brand new entry-level iPad mannequin can also be anticipated to characteristic Apple’s N1 wi-fi chip, launched with the iPhone 17 lineup. When it comes to design, show, and cameras, every little thing will doubtless stay the identical.
Apple
M4 iPad Air
One other spec bump confirmed by Apple’s inside code is a brand new technology of iPad Air powered by the M4 chip. The bounce from M3 to M4 isn’t an enormous one, however those that personal older iPads will definitely recognize the efficiency bump.
Underneath the codenames J707, J708, J737, and J738, the brand new iPad Air doubtless received’t have any main design adjustments and is predicted to maintain the identical show and digital camera specs as the present technology.
Similar to the brand new entry-level iPad, the M4 iPad Air may even characteristic Apple’s customized N1 wi-fi chip for higher efficiency and decrease latency.
What concerning the different iPads?
Whereas Apple is probably going additionally engaged on new variations of the iPad Professional and iPad mini, there’s no point out of them on this piece of inside code seen by Macworld. These fashions are on a extra sporadic launch schedule than the iPad and iPad Air, so it’s doable Apple’s skips a 2026 launch. Nonetheless, the code comes from an early construct of iOS 26, so Apple’s plans might have modified.
In accordance with our supply, each the A19 iPad and the M4 iPad Air are set to launch someday subsequent 12 months.
