Apple's Cheap iPad Could Use Apple Intelligence! A18 Chip Ready to Launch 2026

Apple is preparing to change the face of its most affordable iPad line. (photo: x @MobileBitBlog)

Apple is preparing to change the face of its most affordable iPad line. The Cupertino-based technology giant is rumored to be releasing the latest entry-level iPad with significant improvements in the first half of 2026. This includes artificial intelligence support through Apple Intelligence.

A report from Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman says Apple is still on track to update the standard iPad in the near future. Although there is no exact date, the launch is said to take place around May 2026, in conjunction with their latest operating system update.

A18 Chip Upgrade Opens Access to Apple Intelligence

The main focus of this update is on performance improvements. The latest generation iPad is predicted to use the Apple A18 chip, replacing the previous generation which still relies on the A16.

This step is not just a normal speed increase. With the A18, Apple's cheap iPad can finally run Apple Intelligence features - AI-based technology that was previously only available on high-end devices.

Until now, the entry-level iPad has been the only major Apple product that has not supported Apple Intelligence. With this update, Apple is effectively "closing the gap" in its product line, following the iPad mini which has already received AI support thanks to the A17 Pro chip.

Even so, design changes or other major features do not seem to be a priority. As in previous traditions, Apple is likely to only present an increase in specifications without a massive overhaul.

This strategy shows that Apple is still maintaining a balance between affordable price and performance, while slowly bringing AI technology to more users. For consumers, this means that cheap iPads are no longer just content consumption devices, but are starting to enter the era of AI-based productivity.