Alright, let’s get started, shall we? Apple has produced a staggering 10 different versions of their standard iPad since its debut in 2010. Yes, it’s quite astonishing.
While the more advanced iPad Mini, Air, and Pro models get most of the attention, Apple isn’t ready to abandon the trusty standard model just yet. Whispers suggest there’s an 11th-gen version stealthily on its way, and there’s abundant speculation about what features it might bring when it finally arrives.
When Is the 11th-gen iPad Launching?
Hey, Apple! What’s taking so long? We’ve seen new *ahem* *fancy* [iPad Air](https://www.gadgetlad.co.uk/article/746484/ipad-air-6-2023-all-there-is-to-know-about-the-next-ipad.html) and [iPad Pro](https://www.gadgetlad.co.uk/article/2064894/apple-ipad-pro-7th-gen.html) models roll out this year with all their bells and whistles, but guess what? No sign of the regular 11th-gen iPad. And don’t even get me started on the absence of the iPad Mini 7—nowhere to be found!
Some of us thought we’d catch a glimpse when Apple unveiled the [iPhone 16](https://www.gadgetlad.co.uk/article/2023751/iphone-16-3.html), but nope! Instead, they surprised us with new shades for the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and flaunted some sleek new AirPods.
Rumor has it, thanks to Mark Gurman from [Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-03-28/when-is-the-new-ipad-pro-ipad-air-coming-out-apple-plans-early-may-launch), that the 11th-gen iPad and Mini will likely not debut until the year’s end at the earliest. Thanks, Mark, you’ve dashed my hopes once more.
What’s the Price Tag on This?
Let’s discuss the cash side, shall we?
Here’s a rundown of how much Apple’s previous iPads cost upon release:
- 10th-gen iPad – $449/£499
- 9th-gen iPad – $329/£319
The 10th-gen hit the wallet harder compared to the 9th-gen, didn’t it? But don’t get too riled up; according to Gurman again (yes, he’s involved in everything), it should be less pricey this time. He suggests it will be a “cost-effective” iteration of the 10th-gen, which is about as thrilling as unwrapping socks for Christmas.
Still, if that holds true and they include a processor upgrade, it’s not all doom and gloom, right?
What’s Inside? Specs and Features
Okay, if you’re hoping for major upgrades, maybe temper your expectations a bit. Back in January 2023, Gurman—yes, him again—hinted that the 11th-gen iPad update wouldn’t be a significant leap. They might just reconfigure some internal components. Fantastic.
Remember that Twitter guy [Majin Bu](https://twitter.com/MajinBuOfficial/status/1534539757237194754?s=20)? He always seems to have the scoop on Apple leaks from out of nowhere. He suggested the upcoming iPad might come with an M2 chip, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage. Sounds impressive, right? But let’s be honest—that’s about as over the top as a Sunday roast with all the extras and a Yorkshire pudding the size of your noggin.
Realistically, we’re likely looking at the 11th-gen iPad featuring the usual A15 Bionic chip. Makes sense, doesn’t it? Apple prefers to equip their budget iPads with slightly older processors. The 10th-gen was outfitted with the A14, so having the A15 for the 11th-gen feels appropriate.
Oh, and Majin Bu is back with more intel. Back in October, he suggested the 11th-gen would maintain the same design as the 10th-gen, which honestly sounds plausible—Apple enjoys reusing designs. And hey, your old accessories? They’re likely still compatible. Small victories, right?
So, what’s on the horizon? We might see updates like second-gen Apple Pencil support, which could be quite handy if that’s your thing. But other than that? Well, it might roll out with the snazzy new iPadOS 18, which is pretty much a slightly revamped version of [iOS 18](https://www.gadgetlad.co.uk/article/2223293/ios-18.html) from the iPhone 16 series. Exciting? Nah, not really.
As always, I’ll be keeping my ear to the ground and will refresh this article when I gather something worthwhile.
Summary: Apple’s Never-Ending Wait
To summarize, who really knows when we’ll actually catch sight of the 11th-gen iPad? It could be this year; it could be longer. Pricing remains uncertain, but hopefully not as outrageous as last time. And specs? Well, if luck is on your side, you might see an A15 chip and perhaps a few new features. However, it’s probably wise not to hold your breath for anything groundbreaking.
In the meantime, if the anticipation is too much to bear, I’ve got guides on the [best iPads](https://www.gadgetlad.co.uk/article/724909/best-ipads.html) and [best tablets](https://www.gadgetlad.co.uk/article/723368/best-tablets.html) that might help pass the time. Just saying.
GadgetLad—signing off.
