Should I buy iPad (A16, 2025)? Wait if you can

Should you buy? No

The entry-level iPad was last updated in March 2025 and is now the oldest model in Apple’s lineup. It remains the only current iPad that doesn’t support Apple Intelligence, making it a less future-proof purchase than the rest of the range.

A replacement is expected before the end of 2026, potentially bringing Apple Intelligence support and a faster processor. Unless you can find the current model at a substantial discount, it’s worth waiting.

Should I buy iPad mini (A17 Pro, 2024)? – Wait for new model

Should you buy? No

The current iPad mini launched in October 2024 and remains an excellent compact tablet with Apple Intelligence support. However, multiple reports suggest Apple will update it later in 2026, likely with a faster A19 Pro chip.

If you need a small tablet today, the current model is still a good buy – particularly if it’s discounted. Otherwise, waiting a few months should bring a worthwhile performance upgrade.

Should I buy iPad Air (M4, 2026)? – Buy now

Should you buy? Yes

The iPad Air (M4), introduced in March 2026, is the newest iPad in Apple’s lineup. Available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, it features the M4 chip, 12GB of RAM, Wi-Fi 7, and an excellent balance of performance, features, and price.

For most people, it’s the best iPad Apple sells and is unlikely to be replaced until 2027, making now an excellent time to buy.

Should I buy iPad Pro (M5, 2025)? – Buy now if you need the power

Should you buy? Yes

The iPad Pro (M5), launched in October 2025, remains Apple’s most capable tablet. It combines the M5 chip with a stunning Tandem OLED ProMotion display, support for up to 2TB of storage, and class-leading performance. The next update isn’t expected until 2027.

That said, it’s the right choice only if you’ll benefit from its extra power. Creative professionals working with demanding apps, large media projects, or intensive multitasking will appreciate what it offers. Most other buyers will find the iPad Air delivers a very similar everyday experience for considerably less money. Likewise, children and casual users are generally better served by the standard iPad or iPad mini than by Apple’s most expensive tablet.

When is the best time to buy an iPad

Foundry

The best time to buy an iPad is during major shopping events, particularly Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day, when retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart typically offer their biggest discounts.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday (November/December)

Black Friday is usually the best time of the year to buy an iPad. In 2025, every current iPad model reached its lowest-ever price during the Black Friday sales, with discounts of up to $150. The entry-level iPad (A16), for example, fell to just $274.

If you can wait until November, Black Friday is your best opportunity to get the lowest prices on almost every iPad model. See Black Friday iPad deals.

Amazon Prime Day (June/July and October)

Amazon now holds two major Prime Day sales each year – one in June or July and another in October – and both regularly feature excellent iPad deals.

The June 2026 event was particularly significant because in the middle of the sale Apple increased iPad prices by $100 to $300, which made the discounts even larger.

The October Prime Day sale often matches or comes close to Black Friday discounts and is another excellent time to buy. It is also possible that the new iPads will have launched by then. See Prime Day iPad deals.

During Apple’s Back to School promotion

If you’re a student, teacher, or work in education, Apple’s Education Store offers year-round discounts on most iPads. During Apple’s annual Back to School promotion in the summer, eligible buyers also receive a free gift card, making it one of the best times to buy directly from Apple.

Note that the criteria are very strict for shopping in Apple’s Education Store. Customers need to verify their eligibility through UNiDAYS before accessing Education Store pricing.

When shouldn’t you buy an iPad?

The worst time to buy an iPad is just before Apple releases a new model. You’ll often end up paying full price for a device that’s about to be replaced, while retailers discount the outgoing model to clear stock.

As of July 2026, the entry-level iPad (A16) and iPad mini (A17 Pro) fall into that category, with both expected to be refreshed before the end of 2026.

There are a few other situations where it’s worth thinking twice before buying:

If a major sale is just around the corner: If Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday is only a few weeks away, it’s usually worth waiting. These sales consistently offer the biggest iPad discounts of the year, often saving you $100 or more compared with buying at full price.

If you want a laptop replacement: An iPad can replace a laptop for some people, but it becomes much less compelling once you add accessories. A Magic Keyboard or similar case can add hundreds of dollars to the cost, bringing the total close to – or even above – the price of a MacBook. With the arrival of the $699 MacBook Neo, the value equation has shifted further. A similarly equipped iPad and keyboard can cost more while still being limited to iPadOS and mobile apps rather than full desktop software.

If you’re buying an older iPad: Discounts on older or refurbished iPads can be tempting, but always check how long they’ll continue to receive software updates. iPadOS 27 drops support for several older models, including the 2018 iPad Pro (3rd generation), 2019 iPad mini (5th generation) and 2020 iPad (8th generation). Buying an unsupported model means you’ll miss future features, security updates and, eventually, app compatibility.

If you want Apple Intelligence: Apple Intelligence isn’t available on every iPad. It requires an M1 chip or later (iPad Air and iPad Pro) or the A17 Pro chip in the current iPad mini. The entry-level iPad (A16) does not support Apple’s AI features, making it a less future-proof purchase.

If you don’t need cellular: Think carefully before paying extra for a 5G cellular model. Cellular connectivity typically adds more than $100 to the purchase price, and you’ll usually need a separate data plan. If you already carry an iPhone, using Personal Hotspot is often a far cheaper alternative.

If fast wired transfers matter: Most people won’t notice USB speeds, but they matter if you regularly transfer large files via cable. The standard iPad is limited to USB 2.0 (480Mbps), the iPad mini supports 5Gbps, the iPad Air 10Gbps, while the iPad Pro offers Thunderbolt speeds of up to 40Gbps.

What is the best iPad price right now?

Apple rarely discounts iPads. In fact, in June 2026, Apple increased iPad prices by $100 to $200, citing unprecedented component cost increases. The price rise came in the middle of Amazon’s Prime Day sale, during which we saw record-low prices. Prices that low are unlikely to return until a major sales event such as October Prime Day or Black Friday.

Right now, the best U.S. deals we are seeing are:

• $200 off iPad Pro, 13-inch, M5, 512GB at Amazon
• $200 off iPad Air, M4, 13-inch, 512GB at Amazon

In the U.K., the standout deal is:

• £35 off iPad Pro M5, 11-inch, 256GB at Amazon

Other ways to save money when buying an iPad

If you’re flexible about where and when you buy, there are several ways to reduce the cost of a new iPad.

Buy a refurbished iPad: Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store is one of the best places to save money. Refurbished iPads undergo Apple’s full testing process, receive a new battery and outer shell where required, include the same one-year warranty as a new device, and are eligible for AppleCare+. Prices are typically around 15% lower than buying new, with savings of up to $450 on some iPad Pro models.

Use Apple’s Education Store: Students, teachers, and education staff can save 5–15% through Apple’s Education Store all year round. During Apple’s annual Back to School promotion, qualifying purchases also include a free gift, such as AirPods or an Apple Pencil. In the U.S., eligibility now needs to be verified through UNiDAYS before accessing Education Store pricing. . Read: How to shop at Apple’s Education Store.

Trade in your old iPad: Apple’s Trade In programme can significantly reduce the cost of a new iPad. For the highest trade-in value, upgrade before Apple announces a replacement model, as trade-in prices typically fall once new devices are released.

Shop during major sales: The biggest discounts usually come from retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart during Prime Day and Black Friday. Apple itself rarely discounts iPads, instead offering gift cards during promotions such as Black Friday and Back to School. While those offers can be worthwhile, third-party retailers almost always provide larger cash discounts.

Is buying a refurbished iPad a good idea?

Apple

Buying a refurbished iPad is one of the best ways to save money. You can often afford a model with more storage or even an iPad Pro for the price of a new entry-level iPad.

The key is to buy refurbished, not simply used. A properly refurbished iPad has been tested, repaired if necessary, and checked to ensure it works like new. A used iPad sold privately is typically sold “as is”, with no warranty, and could even be locked to the previous owner’s Apple ID.

Buy from Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store

The safest option is Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store. Every refurbished iPad is fully tested, fitted with a new battery and outer shell where required, cleaned, and repackaged with all original accessories. You also receive:

• A one-year warranty, just like a new iPad.
• The option to purchase AppleCare+.
• Original accessories and packaging.
• Prices are typically around 15% lower than buying new.

What to look for

If you’re buying from a third-party retailer, pay attention to a few key details:

• Software support: Choose a model that will continue receiving iPadOS updates for several years. Older devices, such as the 2018 iPad Pro (3rd generation) and 2020 iPad (8th generation), no longer support iPadOS 27.
• Storage: Aim for at least 128GB. Older 32GB and 64GB models can quickly run out of space with modern apps and games.
• Condition: Check the retailer’s grading system so you know what cosmetic wear to expect.
• Warranty: Buy from a seller that includes a warranty—ideally for at least one year.

Where to buy

Apple Certified Refurbished: The safest choice, with the same warranty and support as a new iPad.

Reputable refurbishers: Retailers such as Back Market, Best Buy, and Amazon Renewed often offer deeper discounts, but always check the condition grading and warranty before buying.

If you buy from a trusted retailer and choose a model that still has years of software support ahead of it, a refurbished iPad can offer excellent value while saving you a significant amount of money.

Do you need to upgrade your current iPad?

Whether it’s time to replace your iPad depends on four things: software support, performance, battery life, and whether you’re missing features you actually want.

Your iPad no longer receives updates

The most important reason to upgrade is when your iPad stops receiving software and security updates. Apple typically provides major iPadOS updates for around six to eight years, with security updates often continuing for a while afterwards. See: How long does Apple support iPads?

As long as your iPad still receives security updates, it’s generally safe to keep using. Once those updates end, however, you’ll eventually lose app compatibility and expose yourself to increasing security risks.

As of 2026, iPads with an A14 chip or newer, or any M-series iPad, support iPadOS 27. Older models, including the 2018 iPad Pro and 2019 iPad Air, have reached the end of major software support.

It feels slow or the battery no longer lasts

Performance and battery life naturally decline with age. If apps take a long time to open, crash frequently, or the interface feels sluggish even after restarting, your iPad may be struggling to keep up.

Which are the best retailers to buy an iPad from?

Aside from Apple (View the iPad in the Apple Store and View the iPad in the Apple Store U.K). There are a number of third-party reseller that frequently discount the different iPad models.

Best for Lowest Prices

• Amazon
• B&H Photo
• Walmart
• Best Buy

Best for U.K. Buyers

• Laptops Direct
• Amazon
• KRCS
• John Lewis
• Currys

Similarly, if the battery no longer lasts through a typical day or the iPad shuts down unexpectedly, it may be time to replace the device – or at least the battery.

You want Apple Intelligence

One of the biggest reasons to upgrade today is Apple Intelligence. Apple’s AI features require an M-series chip or an A17 Pro processor.
If you own the current entry-level iPad (A16) or an older model, you won’t be able to use features such as Writing Tools, Priority Notifications, or Clean Up in Photos.

When you probably don’t need to upgrade

If your iPad still runs the latest version of iPadOS, performs well, and meets your needs, there’s little reason to replace it.

Owners of the M1 iPad Air or newer, as well as recent iPad Pro models, are unlikely to notice a dramatic difference in everyday tasks by upgrading to the latest generation. Unless you need a specific new feature or substantially more performance, you’re usually better off keeping your current iPad for another year or two.

How we find the best iPad deals

Britta O’Boyle

We identify the best iPad deals by combining our expert knowledge of Apple’s product lineup (which we have throughly review, and use daily) with specialized tools that monitor prices across a wide range of retailers. By tracking discounts over time, we understand what truly great deals look like and can quickly spot offers that deliver exceptional value.

In assessing deals, we look beyond the price tag to consider overall value. For example, while the M5 iPad Pro is a premium device, a substantial discount on a slightly older model may provide better value for many users. Likewise, we may highlight a strong deal on a basic iPad, pointing out that it can handle most everyday tasks for a fraction of the cost of a Pro model.

Because we understand Apple’s current iPad lineup, the features of previous generations, and what’s expected from future models, we’re well equipped to advise you on which iPad to buy and the best price to pay for it, especially in the wake of Apple’s price hikes.

Our process for identifying the top deals involves several key steps:

1. We use specialized tools: We have tools that allow us to see the best deals across multiple resellers at any given time.
2. Tracking historical prices: We track discounts and price drops throughout the year, so we know each model’s all-time low price. This helps us distinguish a genuine deal from a price that just looks good.
3. Leveraging product expertise: Our extensive knowledge of the entire iPad lineup, including past generations and future expectations, allows us to assess the true value of a deal. For example, we consider whether a discount on an older model is significant enough to justify missing out on features available in a newer version.
4. Monitoring key retailers: We constantly watch major retailers like Amazon and Walmart for bargains, especially during major sales events like Prime Day and Black Friday.

Is now a good time to buy a new iPad?

Prices are unlikely to come down significantly until Prime Day in October or Black Friday in November, but that’s not the only reason to wait. We also recommend reading the advice below to understand whether Apple is likely to update the iPad you’re considering. This can help you avoid purchasing an iPad shortly before a new model is released – a situation that often leads to regret, not only because a better version arrives, but also because retailers typically discount older models once an update occurs. However, if you’re hoping to get a deal on one of the newer models, be prepared to wait.

With that in mind, half of Apple’s iPad product line is due a refresh, with rumors indicating that a new iPad and iPad mini are coming before the end of 2026.

Brady Snyder / Foundry

Here’s a breakdown of the current iPad models to help you decide if now is the right time for you to buy:

iPad (A16): This is the cheapest iPad you can buy new from Apple, starting at $449/£429 (up from $349/£329) for the 128GB model. It was updated in March 2025, at which point Apple doubled the storage at the entry level without reducing the price (at that time), making it even better value for money – obviously that’s changed now that Apple’s pushed prices up by $100. Before choosing this iPad., there are important factors to consider. While the A16 chip delivers solid performance for daily activities, such as web browsing, streaming, light gaming, it doesn’t support Apple Intelligence (the suite of AI-powered features available on other current Apple products), plus the screen isn’t as high quality as the other iPads. If you want to ensure that your iPad is future-proofed we’d recommend spending a little more to get an alternative iPad, or waiting – a successor is anticipated in late 2026.

iPad mini (A17 Pro): The current model was released in October 2024 and was a significant upgrade, featuring Apple’s A17 Pro chip. This processor is powerful enough to support Apple Intelligence features, future-proofing the device for upcoming software innovations. The base model now starts with 128GB of storage, a welcome increase from the 64GB offered in previous generations. While the current iPad mini is a solid buy, there are rumors about a future model. Internal code leaks suggest a potential future update to an A19 Pro chip, which would offer a performance boost. We expect an update until later in 2026, but still recommend buying the current model at a good price.

iPad Air (M4): The current models, which feature the powerful M4 chip, were released in March 2026. We think the M4 iPad Air is the best choice for most people, striking a perfect balance between performance and price. It offers superb processing power, a premium lightweight design, and great battery life, making it a versatile device for everything from streaming and gaming to more demanding work. If you need a new iPad now we recommend the iPad Air as a great buy – if you can find it at a good price.

iPad Pro (M5): Now is an excellent time to buy a new iPad Pro; the current models with the M5 chip arrived in October 2025 and it is not expected to be updated again until 2027. The iPad Pro offers the most up-to-date technology on the ultimate iPad. Indeed, the M5 iPad Pro is considered the best tablet on the market, featuring a stunning Tandem OLED display, outstanding performance, and a super slim, lightweight design.

Release dates and expected refreshes aside, if you are wondering if there is a good time to shop for deals on a new iPad that’s a little more straightforward. The best time of year to get a deal is when the big sales happen, such as Black Friday in November or Amazon Prime Day sales in June or July and October. Some years there is also a Spring Big Deals event on Amazon. Those are when we see the biggest discounts, but if you can’t wait for one of those sales, don’t despair: we see price drops all year round and when we see a good deal we record it here.

Does Apple have sales?

The deals rarely come from Apple itself. While Apple will sometimes offer vouchers as an incentive to buy a new iPad (that’s Apple’s usual Black Friday giveaway), the company never discounts prices. Apple does sell refurbished iPads at a lower price though, so that might be something to consider.

If you are a student you can take advantage of Apple’s education discounts and save a little money on the full price of iPads (and Macs). And in the summer months Apple usually gives away Apple Pencils or AirPods with the sale of certain iPads (and Macs) to students in it’s Higher Education Sale.

Apple

Best refurbished iPad deals

The deals you will see above are generally from Apple resellers rather than Apple itself, which very rarely drops the prices. Apple does, however, sell reconditioned iPads in its Certified Refurbished store. So you might be able to grab a bargain.

The iPads in Apple’s refurbished store may be ex-display stock, or they may have been returned to Apple due to a fault, but they are fully reconditioned now and come with a full year’s warranty. It’s not like buying secondhand.

The U.S. refurbished store has a selection that includes:

• 10-inch iPad Air (5th generation), up to $200 off
• 11-inch iPad Air (M2, M3), up to $130 off
• 13-inch iPad Air (M2, M3), up to $210 off
• 11-inch iPad Pro (4th generation), up to $410 off
• 12.9-inch iPad Pro (6th generation), up to $450 off

Compared to the original price, you can save as much as $320 on a 12.9-inch iPad Pro.

In the U.K. you’ll find a similar selection of iPads available from Apple’s refurbished store. You’ll find the following:

• iPad Air (5th generation, M2 & M3), up to £200 off
• iPad mini (6th generation), up to £90 off
• 11-inch iPad Pro (3rd generation, 4th generation), up to £680 off
• 12.9-inch iPad Pro (5th generation, 6th generation), up to £450 off

Top refurbished deal: 11-inch, iPad Air M2, 256GB for £549, £100 off.

Another place to look is BackMarket US and BackMarket UK, which sells refurbished Macs and other Apple products. Amazon also has a certified refurbished store for Apple products, but we would advise against buying any products that are older than five years. Most of the products we see on the Amazon refurbished store are unfortunately very old.

We have an article that explains what you need to know about buying a refurbished iPad. It includes the best refurbished iPad resellers and lots of advice about how to find the perfect refurbished iPad.

OUR NUMBER ONE TIP: If you are buying an old refurbished iPad our number one recommendation is that you don’t buy one with less than 64GB storage – ideally, get 128GB or more.

There is a large refurbished market for the iPad. We’d recommend taking a look at these refurbished resellers for iPad offers:

U.S. refurbished resellers

• Amazon Renewed
• Back Market
• Best Buy
• Gazelle
• Mac of all Trades
• RefurbMe
• Walmart
• AlloAllo
• eBay
• JemJem
• Reebelo

U.K. refurbished resellers

• Affordable Mac
• Amazon
• The Big Phone Store
• Envirofone
• Hoxton Macs
• The iOutlet
• MusicMagpie
• 4Gadgets
• Big Phone Store
• Tech Trade
• Handtec
• Laptops Direct
• Preloved

We also have a guide to buying a refurbished iPhone.

Macworld’s top 5 tips for finding the best iPad deal

When you are searching for a deal keep the following points in mind and you should be happy with your purchase.

1. Check the storage: Some older iPads only had 32GB or 64GB storage. We don’t think that’s enough. The good news is that Apple’s current iPad line up has 128GB storage or more, so, unless you are buying an older model, this won’t be an issue. Just make sure that if you see a deal on an old model with less storage it is priced accordingly. Some of the best deals are on higher capacity iPads.
2. You probably don’t need cellular: You might intend to use your iPad when you are out and about. In that case spending more to get a model with cellular might appeal. Our opinion is that you can just hotspot from your iPhone to get on the internet from your iPad. You won’t need to pay for a data contract and your’ll also save yourself money on the price of the iPad itself. Check the deal you are looking at isn’t for a cellular model because a non-cellular deal will be even better!
3. Consider refurbished: If you want a bargain and don’t mind that it’s not the latest model buying a refurbished iPad can be a great way to save money. We recommend using Apple’s refurbished store because every product is throughly tested before being sold, and you get a one year warranty with it. If you want to save more money, companies like BackMarket and Declutter. There’s more information about buying a refurbished iPad below.
4. Shop around: If you want a deal then don’t shop at Apple! The best deals come from the various resellers who often battle it our to undercut each others prices for Apple products. Amazon is usually the best, but make sure to check the likes of Walmart, B&H and Best Buy in the U.S., and AO, Argos, Currys in the U.K. We have a list of the best places to buy an iPad below.
5. Wait, if you can: If it’s not Black Friday or an Amazon Prime Sale keep in mind that there could be even better bargains coming. Also, if Apple is likely to be announcing new products soon, be aware that it may mean that the current range will soon be discounted even more.

Apple

Which iPad should you buy?

The answer to this question really depends on what you need your iPad for.

I want the cheapest iPad you can buy

Consider the standard iPad. The cheapest iPad is the 128GB A16 iPad, which costs from $349 / £329. It’s a good option if you are likely your iPad is destined for general use, such as emails, one taking, web browsing, social networks, watching movies and reading books. It’s got a great sized screen and is light enough to pop in a bag and not feel weighed down.

Britta O’Boyle

I’m for an iPad to use instead of a computer

If you are just planning to edit documents and spreadsheets, any iPad can be a good supplement for a computer. If you need something with a little more power then the iPad Air or iPad Pro might be a better option. Apple and other companies sell iPad cases that come with built in keyboards, so you can turn your iPad into a laptop. Read our round up of the best iPad keyboards.

Foundry

I want an iPad that won’t weigh too much

The iPad mini is a great choice if you value portability and power. Its compact 8.3-inch screen and is the lightest iPad you can get (weighing around 0.65 pound or 293g). This makes it perfect for travelers, commuters, or anyone who values a device that can easily fit in a bag or even a large pocket.

If you need a bigger screen the iPad Air is a good choice. The 11-inch iPad Air weighs just over 1 pound or 462g and is 6.1mm thick, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods and easy to take anywhere. What may surprise you is that the newest 11-inch iPad Pro is actually lighter and thinner than the 11-inch Air, at 444g and 5.3mm thick.

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

I want an iPad to use for gaming

If you are wanting to play the latest games on your iPad then the iPad Pro may be the one to choose. Other iPads will be able to play casual games, but to be sure of getting the power and graphics prowess necessary to play the latest games. The iPad Pro also offers a better screen with the 120Hz refresh rates that serious gamers will want.

However, even the A17 Pro chip in the iPad mini ensures that the latest games and apps run smoothly, making it a powerful portable console. The Liquid Retina display is sharp and vibrant, with the highest pixel density of any current iPad.

I want an iPad so I can draw

The iPad is a great device for artists. Any iPad, accompanied with an Apple Pencil or other iPad stylus, will allow you to draw using an app such as Adobe’s Sketchpad (now called Adobe Fresco) which can be used for free, but has in-app purchases.

If you are really serious about your art you may prefer an iPad Pro though, and you may even consider the nano-texture display option for less glare and reflections.

Petter Ahrnstedt

For Kids: The iPad mini is great option for Kids because its small, lightweight frame is easy for small hands to hold, and its power makes it a capable device for entertainment and learning.

For Seniors: The iPad mini’s light weight makes it easier to hold for extended periods.

For Students and Note-Takers: The iPad mini screen size is perfect for reading and taking notes, especially when paired with an Apple Pencil Pro or Apple Pencil (USB-C).


For more information read our full guides to the best iPad for students, best iPad for kids and best iPad for the elderly.

If you still aren’t sure read our guide that examines which iPad is best for you in more detail.

Where to get an iPad deal

You don’t have to buy directly from Apple. There are resellers that will sell you and iPad, and the best thing is that they frequently offer discounts, where Apple never does.

We recommend the stores below.

U.S. retailers

• Apple
• Amazon
• Best Buy
• Costco
• Target
• Walmart

U.K. retailers

• Apple
• Amazon
• Argos
• Currys
• John Lewis
• Very

Apple has a number of Apple Premium Resellers who stock iPads in the U.K., and also offer other services, try the following:

• KRCS, often the first to discount new products
• iStore
• Select
• Western Computer

Where to buy the iPad on contract

If you are looking to buy a cellular iPad, so you can always get on the internet, you may want to buy the iPad on contract from one of these networks:

U.S. network carriers

• AT&T
• Verizon
• T-Mobile
• Spectrum
• Optimum
• US Cellular
• Xfinity

U.K. network carriers

• EE
• O2
• Sky
• Vodafone
• Virgin Media
• Three

AppleCare+

AppleCare+

2026 iPad mini release date: When will the new iPad mini launch?

• October 2026 is the reported timeframe

Apple has not officially announced a specific launch date for a new iPad mini. However, industry analysis and leaks suggest that a refresh is likely to occur before the end of 2026. In October 2025, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that a new iPad mini featuring an OLED screen is among the devices Apple is expected to launch before the end of 2026. In July 2026, Gurman reported that the OLED iPad mini is scheduled for an October 2026 release.

Several factors could influence the timing of its release and cause delays, though, including:

• Erratic release cycle: The iPad mini doesn’t follow a fixed update schedule and can go several years between refreshes. While some reports suggest Apple is aiming for a “sooner-than-later” update to bring it in line with newer chips, its history of two-year (or longer) gaps suggests another update isn’t imminent following the October 2024 model.
• Component shortages: Apple’s plans may be affected by demand for the A18 Pro chip expected to power the device. This processor also powers the hugely popular MacBook Neo, which has led to reports that Apple could prioritise these chips for the Neo over the iPad mini. In addition, there are industry-wide supply pressures affecting RAM and other components which Apple CEO Tim Cook alluded to during the company’s first-quarter 2026 results announcement.

2026 iPad mini: Performance and specs 

• A19 Pro chip
• C1X modem
• N1 chip for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6

Since it hasn’t been updated in over a year, the next iPad mini is expected to receive several silicon upgrades. The current model features an A17 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, and Apple Intelligence support. Most rumors suggest Apple will upgrade the device to the A19 Pro.

In August 2025, MacRumors reported that Apple code inadvertently revealed an A19 Pro-powered iPad mini, although the publication noted that the chip could also have been intended for the iPhone Air. Additional evidence emerged in December 2025, when Macworld reported seeing internal Apple code indicating that the entry-level iPad would launch with an A19 chip. Because Apple has traditionally equipped the iPad mini with a more powerful processor than the standard iPad, this lends further support to the A19 Pro rumor.

An A19 Pro would represent a substantial upgrade over the current A17 Pro. Users could expect faster on-device AI processing, improved gaming performance, and quicker photo and video editing. The A18 Pro, which powers the MacBook Neo, is often compared to the M1 chip and can rival the M3 in some single-core workloads. An A19 Pro-powered iPad mini would push the device even closer to iPad Air-level performance.

There are also reports that Apple could use the A20 Pro in the iPad mini instead. The likely chip may depend on launch timing. If the new iPad mini arrives before the iPhone 18 Pro, which is expected to debut the A20 Pro, the A19 Pro remains the most likely option. However, if the launch slips into late 2026 or beyond, an A20 Pro-equipped iPad mini becomes increasingly plausible.

A less ambitious upgrade to the A18 Pro remains possible. While the performance gains would be smaller, the chip still offers meaningful improvements over the A17 Pro thanks to architectural enhancements and a more powerful GPU configuration. In benchmarks, it would outperform the current model, though the difference would be less dramatic than with an A19 Pro or A20 Pro.

The popularity of the MacBook Neo could also influence Apple’s chip strategy. Reports suggest demand for the Neo has been strong enough to create pressure on A18 Pro supply, which could affect the availability of chips for other products.

Alongside processor upgrades, Apple is expected to bring its latest wireless technologies to the iPad mini. With the iPhone 17 lineup, Apple introduced the N1 chip, which supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread. The company has already added the N1 to the M4 iPad Air and is expected to roll it out across the iPad lineup through 2026 and 2027, including the iPad mini. Cellular models are also expected to adopt Apple’s C1X modem.

2026 iPad mini: Display

• OLED display upgrade

Mahmoud Itani / Foundry

The biggest display upgrade rumored for the next iPad mini is the adoption of OLED technology. Following Apple’s transition of the iPad Pro to OLED in 2024, multiple reports have suggested that the iPad mini will be the next iPad to make the switch. Ross Young of DSCC was first to claim, in a tweet in October 2024, that the next iPad mini would have a OLED.

The current iPad mini, released in October 2024, still uses a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, but industry sources, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, indicate a move to OLED is increasingly likely.

The transition from LCD to OLED would represent one of the most significant upgrades in the iPad mini’s history. Unlike LCD panels, which rely on a backlight, OLED displays illuminate each pixel individually. This allows pixels to switch off completely when displaying black content, resulting in deeper blacks, higher contrast ratios, and improved HDR performance.

Key benefits of OLED include:

• Superior contrast and true blacks: Individual pixel control delivers inky blacks and virtually infinite contrast.
• More vibrant colours: OLED panels typically offer wider colour gamuts and greater colour accuracy, producing richer and more immersive images.
• Faster response times: Reduced motion blur and ghosting improve the experience when gaming or watching fast-moving content.
• Better viewing angles: Colours and brightness remain consistent even when viewed from the side.
• Improved efficiency: OLED can be more power-efficient when displaying darker content and allows for thinner display assemblies.

An OLED panel could also enable Apple to reduce bezel sizes, potentially increasing the display area slightly without significantly changing the tablet’s overall dimensions. Some reports suggest the screen could grow from 8.3 inches to around 8.5 inches as a result – more on that below.

While the iPad mini is unlikely to inherit premium display technologies such as ProMotion or the tandem OLED architecture used in the iPad Pro, the move to OLED would still deliver a noticeable improvement in visual quality, with richer blacks, better contrast, improved colour reproduction, and stronger HDR performance.

For users who prioritise display quality, an OLED iPad mini would address one of the most frequently cited limitations of the current model and bring the compact tablet much closer to the viewing experience offered by Apple’s premium devices.

2026 iPad mini: Design

• Same size, bigger screen possible
• More water-resistant design rumored

Apple

The iPad mini has retained the same design since its major redesign in 2021, and the 2026 model is expected to keep that overall look. However, Apple could increase the display size slightly while maintaining the device’s current dimensions.

In December 2024, analysts at Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) suggested in a supply chain analyst report that the next-generation iPad mini could feature an 8.5-inch display, up from the current model’s 8.3-inch panel. The reports indicated that the chassis size would remain unchanged, meaning Apple could achieve the larger screen through slimmer bezels rather than a larger body.

A larger display may also help the iPad mini maintain its place in Apple’s lineup as foldable devices arrive. Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone – often referred to as the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra – is expected to feature an inner display measuring between 7.6 and 7.8 inches with a 4:3 aspect ratio, putting it close to the iPad mini’s screen size. While still smaller than the iPad mini, such a device could appeal to some users who currently favour Apple’s smallest tablet.

Another rumor gaining traction is that the new iPad mini will be more water-resistant. That rumor comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who in October 2025 claimed Apple was developing a next-generation iPad mini with a significantly more water-resistant chassis.

The design changes could include:

• Redesigned casing with improved sealing around ports.
• A new speaker system that uses vibration-based audio technology to eliminate traditional speaker holes.

There’s also a strong possibility of new colour options. Apple currently offers the iPad mini in Blue, Purple, Starlight, and Space Gray, while the previous generation was available in Pink, Purple, Starlight, and Space Gray.

2026 iPad mini: Cameras 

• Little or no camera upgrade expected

Foundry

Apple’s iPads currently feature a 12MP Center Stage front-facing camera and a 12MP wide rear camera, and there are no credible reports suggesting major camera system upgrades for the next iPad mini.

The most likely change concerns camera placement rather than camera hardware. Apple has moved the front-facing camera to the landscape edge on its latest iPad models, and the iPad mini could follow suit to improve the experience during video calls and FaceTime sessions when used with a keyboard or stand.

While the cameras themselves may remain unchanged, image quality could still benefit from improvements to the image signal processor and computational photography capabilities of a newer A-series chip.

2026 iPad mini: Price 

The iPad mini has had the same $499 price tag since its 2021 redesign. In 2026 we could see a price increase as a result of the OLED display upgrade.

Component costs could also drive up the price. During Apple’s first quarter 2026 financial results announcement, CEO Tim Cook said that Apple is now “in a supply chase mode” due to industry-wide constraints. Thus, tariffs, the rising cost of RAM, and other increases in supply-chain costs could impact pricing for some higher-end storage options.

The price may remain the same though, with Apple wanting to keep the price of this niche product attractive.

2027 iPad release date: When will Apple launch the next entry-level iPad?

• Early 2027 launch predicted

In a July 2026 report, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said that Apple has scheduled the release of the entry-level iPad for “as early as the first calendar quarter next year.” Previously, Gurman reported that the new entry-level iPad is “on the roadmap for a release in the iOS 26.4 timeframe, which runs until May.” Apple released iOS 26.4 on March 24, and the iPad was not released.

Why the later ship date? It’s possible that Apple needs to ensure sufficient supply of whichever chip it chooses (A18, A19, or A20) and may also be waiting for its Apple Intelligence features to be fully ready. This includes ongoing work to improve next-generation Siri AI, which is part of the iPadOS 27 update that will be released in the fall.

A delay is more likely to be strategic than technical. Apple did not update the base iPad during its March 2026 launch event, despite releasing the M4 iPad Air. Holding back the entry-level iPad helps avoid cannibalising sales of more expensive models, and staggered releases like this are typical of Apple’s product strategy.

Should you wait?

We recommend waiting for the 2027 iPad if you’re considering an upgrade. The next-generation iPad is expected to deliver a meaningful upgrade with a faster chip, more RAM, and support for Apple Intelligence, making it a much more future-proof choice.

2027 iPad chip: Will the new iPad use the A18 or A19 chip?

• A18 chip most likely
• 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU
• N1 chip for Wi-Fi 6E/7 and Bluetooth 6

The biggest upgrade coming to the 2027 iPad will be a new processor, but reports are divided on exactly which chip Apple will use.

Most evidence points to the A18 chip, which debuted in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus in 2024. In March 2026, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that the new iPad is “ready to go” with an A18, making it the most likely candidate. The A18 would also enable Apple Intelligence, something the current A16-powered iPad cannot support.

However, there is still a possibility that Apple could opt for the A19 chip instead. As we reported in December 2025, a code-leak suggested that Apple had been testing new iPad models (codenamed J581 and J582) equipped with the same A19 chip expected in the iPhone 17 lineup.

For now, the balance of evidence leans toward the A18 as the more realistic choice. Reports of A18 Pro shortages (linked to the popularity of the MacBook Neo) are unlikely to affect supply of the standard A18 chip if Apple chooses to use that in the new iPad.

What to expect

• A18 chip: Expected to feature a 6-core CPU and a 5-core GPU, similar to its implementation in recent iPhones. Apple may use a “binned” version with one fewer CPU or GPU core, a common strategy to improve manufacturing yields and differentiate products. The A18 should deliver a 30–40 percent performance boost over the A16, along with 8GB of RAM (up from 6GB), enabling support for Apple Intelligence.
• A19 chip: Expected to feature a 6-core CPU and a 5-core GPU in the iPhone 17. Apple could use the same configuration or a slightly reduced “binned” version for the iPad. The A19 would offer an even larger jump—around 50 percent faster than the A16—while also including 8GB of RAM, which is essential for Apple Intelligence features.

Other specs

Apple is also expected to bring its new N1 connectivity chip to the iPad. First introduced with the iPhone 17 lineup, the N1 handles Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread connectivity. Its inclusion could upgrade the iPad to Wi-Fi 6E or even Wi-Fi 7, along with Bluetooth 6.x, up from the current Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3.

For cellular models, Apple will likely use its in-house C1 modem (or a variant of it), continuing its shift away from third-party suppliers while improving efficiency and integration.

Why does Apple Intelligence matter for the iPad?

Apple Intelligence introduces a range of AI-powered features designed to enhance creativity, productivity, and real-time communication, including:

• Image Generation: Tools like Image Playground and Genmoji allow users to create custom visuals and personalized emojis from text prompts.
• Live Translation: Integrated into FaceTime and Messages, this feature provides real-time translated captions during calls, effectively giving every user a personal translator.
• Photo Editing: The “Clean Up” tool uses AI to identify and remove unwanted background objects from photos, a task that previously required complex manual editing.
• Writing Tools: System-wide rewriting, proofreading, and summarization in apps such as Mail and Notes.
• Smart Shortcuts: Automation of repetitive tasks using intelligent actions and text summarization.
• Priority Management: AI-driven Priority Notifications and Priority Inbox to surface time-sensitive information.

These features require at least 8GB of RAM and a more powerful Neural Engine, which means Apple Intelligence is currently limited to M-series iPads (Air and Pro) and the A17 Pro iPad mini.

By contrast, the standard iPad with the A16 chip (released in March 2025) does not support Apple Intelligence. This is a notable limitation for long-term value, especially as future versions of iPadOS are expected to rely increasingly on AI-driven features.

2027 iPad display: No OLED or ProMotion

• Same 10.9-inch LCD
• No OLED display
• No ProMotion

While there are reports that the other iPads (mini, Air and Pro) could get new OLED panels with richer colors and deeper contrast in 2027, the base model is unlikely to evolve from its LCD panel.

We expect the upcoming iPad to have the same 11-inch Liquid Retina display 2360-by-1640 display with 500 nits of brightness and 60Hz refresh rate that it has had since 2022.

2027 iPad design: No new design

Apple

The A19 iPad is also expected to have the same dimensions: 9.79 x 7.07 x 0.28 inches (248.6 x 179.5 x 7 millimeters) and weigh 1.05 pounds (477 grams). 

We haven’t heard anything about new colors, but since Apple hasn’t changed the color palette (blue, pink, yellow, silver) since its original release, it’s possible we get a couple of new options.

2027 iPad cameras: Will Apple update the FaceTime camera?

Britta O’Boyle

• 12MP rear camera 
• 12MP Center Stage front camera 

The current iPad has two 12MP cameras, with the front ‘FaceTime’ camera having support for Center Stage. Apple isn’t expected to make changes to the camera for the upcoming iPad. 

However, the company did change the Centre Stage camera with the arrival of the iPhone 17, and the new ‘square’ 18MP camera could be used on the front of the new iPad.

This front-facing camera has a larger, square sensor that supports automatic subject framing, orientation-agnostic capture, and advanced video features. On the iPad the 18MP camera could translate to improved video quality. However, current iPads already support smart framing during video calls so that aspect of the design may not be necessary.

2027 iPad price: Will Apple keep the entry-level iPad affordable?

After launching at $449 in 2022, Apple cut the price of the entry-level iPad to $349 in May 2024, and doubled the starting storage from 64GB to 128GB with the 11th-gen model. However, in June 2026, Apple raised the price back to the to $449 level due to supply-chain shortages. It’s possible that Apple could raise the price again.