Apple not too long ago launched a brand new iPad Professional with the M5 chip, and we additionally received 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 inner 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 sooner chip.
A19 iPad
The entry-level iPad mannequin is predicted to obtain a big spec bump. Based on reputable Apple code for an inner 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 might be powered by the A19 chip, the identical processor inside the present iPhone 17.
The Eleventh-generation iPad has an A16 chip, which is a lot highly effective for on a regular basis duties, however notably lacks assist for Apple Intelligence. The A19 chip is about 50 % sooner than the A16, and likewise has extra RAM (8GB vs. 6GB), which makes it higher for multitasking and AI-based options. It will convey 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. By way of design, show, and cameras, the whole lot will probably stay the identical.
Apple
M4 iPad Air
One other spec bump confirmed by Apple’s inner code is a brand new era of iPad Air powered by the M4 chip. The soar from M3 to M4 isn’t a giant one, however those that personal older iPads will definitely recognize the efficiency bump.
Beneath the codenames J707, J708, J737, and J738, the brand new iPad Air probably gained’t have any main design modifications and is predicted to maintain the identical show and digital camera specs as the present era.
Identical to the brand new entry-level iPad, the M4 iPad Air can even characteristic Apple’s customized N1 wi-fi chip for higher efficiency and decrease latency.
What in regards to 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 inner code seen by Macworld. These fashions are on a extra sporadic launch schedule than the iPad and iPad Air, so it’s potential Apple’s skips a 2026 launch. Nonetheless, the code comes from an early construct of iOS 26, so Apple’s plans could have modified.
Based on our supply, each the A19 iPad and the M4 iPad Air are set to launch someday subsequent 12 months.
