Apple’s cheaper iPads could be stuck on hold for another year

Anyone hoping Apple would refresh its entry-level iPad or iPad Air before the end of next year may need to be patient.

According to Bloomberg, Apple is planning a rollout that begins with a new iPad mini in October 2026. This will be followed by a refreshed entry-level iPad in the first quarter of 2027. Updated iPad Air models are then expected to follow in spring 2027.

The base iPad appears to be getting the most meaningful upgrade of the bunch. While it will not receive a redesign or an OLED display, the report claims it will move from the current A16 chip to an A19 processor. This change would bring support for Apple Intelligence. As a result, it would become the last iPad in Apple’s lineup to gain access to the company’s AI features.

The rest of the lineup looks set for more modest changes. Bloomberg says neither the 11-inch nor 13-inch iPad Air is expected to receive a major visual overhaul. However, previous reports have suggested Apple is preparing an OLED version of the tablet. Samsung is reportedly due to begin mass-producing those panels in late 2026. This points to a possible launch around March 2027.

The iPad Pro is also expected to return around the same time. While the latest report doesn’t mention any significant design changes, earlier rumours have claimed Apple is working on vapor chamber cooling for the premium tablet. That could help sustain performance during heavier workloads.

The only iPad expected to arrive sooner is the iPad mini. Rumours have consistently pointed to an October 2026 launch. The compact tablet is tipped to become the next model in Apple’s lineup to adopt an OLED display. If that proves accurate, it would make the iPad mini the second OLED-equipped iPad after the current iPad Pro.