New iPad 12 Not Shown at Apple Event, AI Features Delayed for Budget Tablet

The new iPad 12 was expected but not shown at the Apple event. This means the budget tablet's AI features might come later.
By Newsroom | Technology, Apple |

The highly anticipated iPad 12, expected to usher in 'Apple Intelligence' capabilities, was conspicuously absent from a recent major product unveiling. This omission, despite prior indications and extensive rumors suggesting its imminent arrival, leaves consumers and industry watchers contemplating its future release. The device, expected to house an A18 chip or potentially an A19 chip for enhanced AI functions, failed to materialize alongside other announced hardware, including the iPhone 17e and updated MacBook models.

New iPad 12 Missing From Major Product Launch Despite AI Upgrade Rumours—Is It Coming Soon? - 1

Reports had consistently placed the entry-level iPad 12 alongside these other refreshes, with some analyses pinpointing a launch window between March 2nd and March 4th. The expectation was for this new iPad to align with the broader integration of 'Apple Intelligence' features, which are now reportedly available on existing iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro models. The lack of an updated entry-level iPad in this launch cycle raises questions about the company's strategy regarding its most accessible tablet line and its AI rollout.

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New iPad 12 Missing From Major Product Launch Despite AI Upgrade Rumours—Is It Coming Soon? - 2

The absence of the iPad 12 from this particular event has fueled speculation regarding its release timeline. Some suggest it might appear later in the spring, while others ponder if it could be held back until the autumn. The delay could potentially be linked to the pricing strategy for its AI features, hinting at a deliberate move to control the rollout and perception of these new capabilities. The current generation of iPads, including the iPad Air and entry-level models, were expected to see an update. While the iPad Air received an M4 chip, the basic iPad line saw no refresh.

New iPad 12 Missing From Major Product Launch Despite AI Upgrade Rumours—Is It Coming Soon? - 3

Further fueling the speculation are past patterns of chip upgrades for the base iPad model. The eleventh generation iPad received an A16 chip, a two-generation leap from the tenth generation's A14. This historical context makes the expected jump to an A18 or A19 chip for the iPad 12 seem plausible, aligning it with the performance demanded by emerging AI functionalities.

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Design-wise, significant changes for the iPad 12 have not been widely rumored, suggesting a continuation of the current model's aesthetic. Expected specifications for the upcoming model include an A18 chipset for improved performance and on-device AI processing, such as smarter Siri interactions and image generation tools. The display is anticipated to remain non-laminated with a 60Hz refresh rate, balancing functionality with cost-effectiveness. The budget-friendly positioning of the base iPad line, potentially around $349, remains a key consideration for its design and feature set.

Background

This situation unfolds against a backdrop of a broader product refresh event where Apple introduced new MacBook Pros, MacBook Airs, an iPhone 17e, and updated Studio Displays. The firm's reported roadmap, as detailed by sources like Mark Gurman, had strongly indicated an updated entry-level iPad would be part of this announcement. The exclusion of the iPad 12 from this significant reveal marks a notable departure from those predictions. The integration of 'Apple Intelligence' across various devices underscores the company's focus on AI-driven experiences, making the missing piece of the puzzle – the new entry-level iPad – all the more intriguing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why was the new iPad 12 not at the Apple product event on March 2-4?
The iPad 12 was not shown at the recent Apple event. It was expected to be released with new AI features, but Apple did not include it in the announcement.
Q: When will the iPad 12 with 'Apple Intelligence' be released?
The release date for the iPad 12 is not yet known. Some think it might come out later in spring, while others believe it could be in the fall. Apple has not given an official date.
Q: What does the absence of the iPad 12 mean for Apple's AI features?
The absence of the iPad 12 means that the new 'Apple Intelligence' features might not be available on the cheapest iPad model for some time. These AI features are now on other iPads like the Air and Pro.
Q: What chip was expected in the iPad 12 for AI?
The iPad 12 was expected to have a new chip, like the A18 or A19. This chip would help it run advanced AI tasks. The delay might be related to how Apple plans to price these AI features.
Q: Were other iPads updated at the event?
Yes, some iPads were updated. The iPad Air received a new M4 chip. However, the basic entry-level iPad line, which the iPad 12 would be part of, did not get an update at this event.