Apple fans won’t have to wait much longer for a new budget tablet. Reports suggest that Apple plans to release a refreshed low-cost iPad in spring 2025. The upcoming 11th-generation iPad is expected to include significant upgrades like a faster A17 Pro chip, support for Wi-Fi 6E, and Apple’s custom-designed modem chip while maintaining an affordable price point.
This new entry-level iPad will likely be part of Apple’s broader strategy to refresh its budget device lineup in 2025. While Apple typically focuses on premium products, the company recognizes the importance of offering more affordable options to reach a wider audience. The timing suggests Apple wants this new iPad included in its second financial quarter, which ends March 28, 2025.
For consumers looking to buy a new iPad without breaking the bank, this upcoming model could be the perfect opportunity. The refreshed tablet is part of an expected lineup of eight new low-cost Apple devices coming this year, making 2025 an exciting time for budget-conscious Apple customers.
What to Expect from the 11th-Generation iPad
Apple is gearing up to release a refreshed low-cost iPad, expected to be the 11th-generation model. While it may not bring a radical redesign, Apple is likely to refine its entry-level tablet with performance improvements, better software support, and potentially new features aimed at students and casual users. Here’s everything we know so far about the upcoming budget-friendly iPad.
A Familiar Design with Subtle Tweaks
Rumors suggest that the 11th-generation iPad will retain the same general design as its predecessor, the 10th-generation model. That means a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, flat edges, and USB-C connectivity are expected to return. However, Apple may tweak small details, such as slimming down the bezels, repositioning the front camera for better landscape mode usability, or introducing new color options.
One area where changes could occur is accessory support. The 10th-gen iPad adopted the first-gen Apple Pencil with an awkward adapter solution. Apple could streamline this experience, possibly adding support for the second-gen Apple Pencil or a more seamless charging mechanism.
Performance Boost with a New A-Series Chip
Apple typically upgrades its entry-level iPads with an improved processor every one to two years. The 10th-gen iPad runs on the A14 Bionic chip, so the new model could feature the A15 Bionic or even the A16, bringing faster performance and better power efficiency. This would allow for improved multitasking, smoother gaming, and longer battery life.
Additionally, Apple might bump up the base storage from 64GB to 128GB, following recent trends in their product lineup. A larger base storage would make the iPad a more attractive option for students and professionals who rely on cloud-based apps and downloads.
iPadOS 18 and Potential AI Enhancements
With iPadOS 18 expected to launch later this year, the new iPad will likely ship with the latest software out of the box. Apple has been increasingly focusing on AI-powered features, and while the budget iPad won’t match the capabilities of the iPad Pro, it could still receive basic AI-powered enhancements, such as smarter Siri suggestions and improved handwriting recognition.
If Apple includes at least 8GB of RAM, the new iPad could support some Apple Intelligence features, which are rumored to be exclusive to certain models. However, Apple may keep these AI features reserved for higher-end iPads, reinforcing the budget model’s positioning as an entry-level device.
Pricing and Availability
Apple is expected to keep the 11th-gen iPad’s price in line with the 10th-gen model, which starts at $449. However, if Apple decides to keep the 10th-gen iPad in the lineup at a lower price, it could make the new model slightly more expensive, potentially starting at $499.
As for the release date, Apple is likely to announce the new iPad in the first half of 2025, possibly during a spring event in March or through a quiet website update. Pre-orders could start immediately after the announcement, with shipments beginning a few weeks later.
Should You Wait for the 11th-Gen iPad?
If you’re in the market for a budget iPad, waiting for the 11th-gen model might be a smart move. The expected performance boost and potential accessory improvements could make it a more compelling purchase. However, if you find a great deal on the 10th-gen iPad, it might still be worth considering, especially if your needs are basic.
Key Takeaways
- A new 11th-generation iPad is coming in spring 2025 with better performance and connectivity features.
- The budget tablet will include an A17 Pro chip and support for Wi-Fi 6E while keeping costs down.
- This release is part of Apple’s larger plan to launch eight affordable devices in 2025.
Apple’s Low-Cost iPad Strategy
Apple’s refresh of its low-cost iPad ensures that casual users, students, and families continue to have an affordable entry point into the Apple ecosystem. As we approach the official announcement, more leaks and details will emerge, so stay tuned for the latest updates.
Apple’s approach to affordable tablets balances price with features, creating entry points for new customers while maintaining premium brand value. The company has refined this strategy over time, adjusting specifications and pricing to respond to market needs.
Market Positioning
The low-cost iPad serves as Apple’s gateway product for tablet users. Priced at around $449, it sits well below the iPad Air and Pro models, making Apple’s ecosystem accessible to budget-conscious consumers.
This pricing strategy targets several key markets. Students, schools, first-time tablet buyers, and families looking for shared devices find the basic iPad appealing.
Apple carefully selects which premium features to include and which to reserve for higher-end models. This creates clear separation between product tiers while still delivering core iPad experiences.
The upcoming 11th-generation model continues this approach by including meaningful updates like a faster chip and Wi-Fi 6E support, without crossing into iPad Air territory.
Previous Models and Evolution
The basic iPad has undergone significant changes since its inception. Early models featured thick bezels and home buttons, while the current 10th-generation iPad adopted a more modern design with flat edges and USB-C.
Each generation has brought measured improvements. The 9th-gen maintained the classic design but upgraded processors, while the 10th-gen delivered a full redesign with landscape front camera and better screen.
Pricing has fluctuated slightly, with the 10th-gen seeing an increase before retailer discounts brought it down to as low as $279. This pricing pattern shows Apple’s willingness to adjust based on market conditions.
The expected spring 2025 release for the 11th-gen iPad aligns with Apple’s typical two-to-three-year refresh cycle for this product line, demonstrating the company’s consistent commitment to its entry-level tablet.
Anticipated Features and Specifications
The upcoming 11th-generation iPad is expected to receive several notable upgrades while maintaining its budget-friendly position in Apple’s lineup. The new model will likely feature important hardware improvements and software enhancements to keep it competitive in 2025.
Hardware Enhancements
The new low-cost iPad will likely sport a faster processor, possibly an A15 or A16 Bionic chip, bringing a significant performance boost over the current model. This upgrade would improve gaming, multitasking, and overall responsiveness.
Apple might upgrade the display while keeping the same 10.9-inch size. The tablet is expected to support Wi-Fi 6E for faster, more reliable wireless connections.
Storage options may start at 64GB, with 128GB and 256GB tiers available. The base iPad could also get:
- Improved front-facing camera
- Better battery life
- USB-C port (maintaining the design from previous generation)
- Possible support for Apple Pencil 2
The new model will likely keep the Touch ID sensor in the power button rather than moving to Face ID, helping maintain its lower price point of $400-$500.
Software and Operating System
The refreshed iPad will come with iPadOS 18 out of the box, bringing new productivity features and improvements. Users can expect better multitasking capabilities and refined home screen widgets.
Apple’s focus on AI integration might bring new intelligent features to even this budget model. These could include:
- Enhanced Siri capabilities
- Smarter text predictions
- Improved photo organization
- Basic on-device AI tools
The new iPad will maintain compatibility with key Apple services like iCloud, Apple TV+, and Apple Arcade. It will also support the latest versions of popular apps like Pages, Numbers, and GarageBand.
Apple’s software support typically extends for 5+ years, making this a solid long-term investment despite its budget status. The device will receive regular security updates and new features throughout its lifespan.
Projected Release Timeline
Apple’s new low-cost iPad is expected to hit stores this spring, following established patterns and manufacturing schedules. Supply chain reports and historical data point to a March or April 2025 launch window.
Manufacturing and Supply Chain Considerations
Production of the 11th-generation iPad is reportedly already underway. Industry insiders note that Apple’s suppliers have ramped up component production since late 2024.
The company appears to be integrating its custom-designed modem chip into this new model, which may have impacted manufacturing timelines. This addition represents a significant upgrade for the entry-level tablet.
Supply chain reports indicate that Apple has secured adequate chip supplies despite ongoing industry challenges. The company typically begins mass production 2-3 months before launch, which aligns with the expected spring release.
Apple likely started final assembly in January 2025, with units now being shipped to distribution centers worldwide.
Historical Release Patterns
Apple has maintained consistent iPad release cycles in recent years. The base iPad models typically receive updates every 12-18 months.
The most telling pattern is Apple’s preference for spring iPad announcements:
- 9th-gen iPad: September 2021
- 10th-gen iPad: October 2022
- 11th-gen iPad: Expected Spring 2025
Multiple reports specifically point to April 2025 as the likely launch window. With Apple having just released the iPhone 16E via press release in February, the company will likely unveil the new iPad through a similar announcement rather than a dedicated event.
The timing aligns with Apple’s focus on low-cost devices in 2025, as the company aims to strengthen its affordable product lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple’s refreshed budget iPad will bring several improvements to the entry-level tablet line with a possible spring 2025 release window. Consumers can expect updated specs, design changes, and new accessories at competitive price points.
What are the anticipated features of the upcoming low-cost iPad model from Apple?
The new 11th-generation iPad will likely feature an updated design with slimmer bezels and possibly a larger display. Apple may move the front camera to the landscape edge for better video calls.
The budget iPad might include a faster chip, possibly the A15 or A16 Bionic, for improved performance over the current model. It will almost certainly support Apple Pencil and may work with a new Magic Keyboard accessory.
USB-C charging will continue to be standard, replacing the Lightning port that was phased out in previous models.
When can consumers expect the release of Apple’s updated budget-friendly iPad?
The refreshed low-cost iPad is expected to launch in Spring 2025, likely around March. This timeline aligns with Apple’s typical early-year product refresh cycle.
The new iPad may debut alongside other budget-friendly devices like the iPhone SE 4. Apple often holds product events in March or April to showcase its first wave of annual updates.
Pre-orders will likely begin shortly after the announcement, with devices shipping within two weeks of the reveal.
How does the soon-to-be-released low-cost iPad compare to the current iPad Air?
The new budget iPad will bridge some gaps with the iPad Air but maintain key differences to justify the price difference. The entry-level iPad will likely use an older-generation chip than the current Air.
Display quality will be good but may lack the anti-reflective coating and P3 wide color gamut of the Air. The base iPad typically has less RAM and storage options start at 64GB.
Both will use USB-C and support Apple Pencil, but the Air may retain advantages in camera quality and speaker performance. The iPad Air will likely remain thinner and lighter overall.
Will the new affordable iPad be available in all countries where Apple products are sold?
The 11th-generation iPad should be available in most countries where Apple has an official presence, though the exact launch timing may vary by region. Major markets like the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU countries will receive the device first.
Some regions may face short delays due to regulatory approvals or supply chain considerations. Apple typically announces specific country availability during their product launch events.
Pricing will vary by country due to taxes, import duties, and currency exchange rates.
What can we expect in terms of performance improvements with the new entry-level iPad?
The new iPad will likely feature a significant performance boost over the current 10th-generation model. Expect up to 20-30% faster CPU performance and improved graphics capabilities for games and creative apps.
Battery life may see slight improvements through chip efficiency rather than increased battery size. The device will probably run iPadOS 18 or newer, bringing enhanced multitasking features.
App loading times and overall system responsiveness should improve noticeably. The updated iPad will better handle demanding tasks like video editing and latest games, though not at the level of Pro models.
Has Apple announced any special programs or discounts for the refreshed iPad?
Apple hasn’t officially announced any special programs for the upcoming iPad refresh. Education discounts will likely continue, offering reduced pricing for students and educational institutions.
Apple may offer trade-in programs where customers can exchange older iPads for credit toward the new model. The company typically provides these details at product launch.
Seasonal promotions might include free Apple TV+ or Apple Arcade subscriptions with purchase. Authorized retailers like Best Buy and Amazon often offer their own deals shortly after launch.
