Hold onto Your iPads, Folks! Even the Cheap One’s Getting a Brain Upgrade!
Looks like Apple’s finally decided that even its budget iPad deserves a little intelligence. Bloomberg’s own Mark Gurman, the guy who seems to have Apple’s secrets whispered in his sleep, says the cheapest iPad’s getting the “Apple Intelligence” treatment in late 2025.
So, what does this mean for all you bargain-hunting iPad users? Well, it means your next cheap iPad might not be so dumb after all. This “Apple Intelligence” thing is supposed to be in practically every Apple device with a screen by 2026.
Now, this entry-level iPad hasn’t seen an update since October 2022. They’re probably sweating over there at Apple, trying to figure out how to cram all this fancy AI stuff into a device that only costs $349. They could just slap in the same chip from the iPhone 15, but if they want everyone to experience the “Apple Intelligence” magic, they’ll probably need a beefier processor.
Funny thing is, Apple just dropped a new iPad mini with this “Apple Intelligence” and even made the old iPad 10 cheaper in Europe. They even stopped giving you a charger with it! You think they’d do that if a new iPad 11 was right around the corner?
So, while we might get some Mac news this month, don’t hold your breath for a new cheap iPad just yet. Apple’s playing the long game here, folks. They’re probably trying to make sure even your grandma’s iPad can write her a haiku.
From the sales floor to the critic's corner, I'm a former Apple Sales Specialist who's not afraid to tell it like it is. Get my honest takes on the iPhone, Mac, and everything Apple. | Los Angeles, California.