iPad 12th Gen: Is It the Most Affordable AI Tablet? A18, Release Date & Full Details
The Apple iPad 12th Generation is expected to arrive in 2026 with major performance upgrades, smarter AI features, and improved multitasking capabilities. Positioned as Apple’s most affordable tablet, this upcoming iPad aims to deliver powerful performance while maintaining a budget-friendly price.
Here’s a complete breakdown of the latest rumors, expected specifications, and key upgrades of the Apple iPad 12th Generation.
iPad 12th Generation Latest Rumors
12th-Gen iPad: Release Date and Specifications
iPad 11th Generation (A16) (2025) vs. iPad 12th Generation (A18) (2026)
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Apple iPad 12th Generation Release Date
The Apple iPad 12th Generation is widely expected to launch in Spring 2026, possibly between March and April, aligning with Apple’s typical refresh cycle for its entry-level iPad lineup.
Apple iPad 12th Generation Price in Bangladesh:
Apple iPad 12th Generation expected price range of BDT 45,000 – 55,000 depending on import costs, taxes, and local retailer pricing.
Display & Design:
The upcoming iPad 12th Generation is expected to retain the popular 11-inch Liquid Retina display with slim bezels and USB-C support — just like previous models. There likely won’t be drastic design changes, but Apple may make subtle refinements to keep the tablet sleek and modern.
Performance & Processor:
Unlike previous entry-level iPads, the 12th Gen model could include a more powerful chip. Some reports suggest the iPad 12 may use the Apple A18 chip — the same class of processor found in devices like the iPhone 16 series — offering a significant speed boost over the A16 chip in the current model. There are also stronger rumors about an A19 chip possibly being used, which would mark a rare case of a flagship-level chipset in Apple’s budget tablet lineup.
Apple Intelligence & AI Features
With newer chips such as A18 or possibly A19, the iPad 12th Generation could support Apple Intelligence features — including improved Siri interactions, smart writing help, and other on-device AI tools not available on earlier base iPad models.
RAM & Memory Upgrades
Leaks indicate Apple may increase RAM to 8GB to better handle multitasking and AI-based features. This would be a noticeable improvement over the 6GB RAM found in the 11th Gen iPad.
Camera & Multimedia Updates
While major camera hardware upgrades are not anticipated, software-driven enhancements could improve photo and video performance. Minor tweaks to speakers and microphone quality could also make media and video calls better.
Potential Software and Feature Additions
The iPad 12th Gen is expected to launch with iPadOS 26, bringing smarter performance and productivity improvements. A rumored Stage Manager 2 could enhance multitasking, especially when using external monitors. Apple may also improve battery management and AI-powered features, making the iPad feel more intelligent and efficient without extra user effort.
iPad 11th Generation (A16) vs iPad 12th Generation (A18)
The iPad 11 runs on the A16 chip, handling daily tasks smoothly but without Apple Intelligence support. The iPad 12, with the A18 (or A19) chip and rumored extra RAM, promises faster performance and better multitasking. See the table below for a direct A16 vs A18 comparison.
| Feature | iPad 11th Gen (A16) | iPad 12th Gen (A18 or A19, Leaks) |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | A16 Bionic, 6‑core CPU, 5‑core GPU | A18 or A19 class chip with higher performance |
| Apple Intelligence | No Apple Intelligence features available | Apple Intelligence support planned through newer SoC and Neural Engine |
| RAM | 6 GB RAM configuration | 8 GB RAM |
| Display | 11‑inch Liquid Retina LCD, laminated panel | 11‑inch Liquid Retina LCD, panel structure |
| Storage | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB options | Similar storage tiers, exact sizes still unspecified |
| Apple Pencil | USB‑C Apple Pencil, 1st gen via adapter | Apple Pencil Pro and USB‑C Pencil support |
| Wireless | Wi‑Fi 6, optional 5G cellular | Wi‑Fi 7 and newer cellular modem generation |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – iPad 12th Generation
Q1: Does an iPad 11th Gen (A16) case fit the 12th Gen (A18)?
No, cases are model-specific. Always get a case made for iPad 12th Gen.
Q2: Do I need a case or screen protector?
Yes. A case protects from drops; a screen protector prevents scratches.
Q3: When is the best time to buy a new iPad?
After new Apple launches — older models often drop in price.
Q4: Which chip powers the iPad 12th Gen?
Rumored A18 (or A19) chip for faster performance and AI features.
Q5: Does iPad 12 support Apple Intelligence / AI?
Yes, the A18 chip enables AI-based apps and smarter system behavior.
Q6: What software does iPad 12th Gen run?
Expected iPadOS 26, with Stage Manager 2 for enhanced multitasking.
Q7: Will it work with existing Apple Pencil & keyboards?
Yes, it supports Apple Pencil (USB-C) and compatible keyboards.
Q8: Estimated price in Bangladesh?
Around BDT 45,000–55,000 (based on global pricing trends).