iPad 11th Gen: What to Expect from Apple’s Next Entry-Level Tablet Apple is preparing to launch the iPad 11th gen, continuing its commitment to delivering a powerful yet affordable tablet experience. The 10th-generation iPad, released in 2022, introduced a refreshed design, a USB-C port, and improved performance. However, with the tablet lineup becoming increasingly diverse, Apple is expected to refine and enhance the entry-level iPad further in 2025. From potential chip upgrades and design tweaks to software improvements, here’s a deep dive into what the iPad 11th gen could offer and how it might fit into Apple's expanding iPad lineup.

Apple’s base-model iPad has always been the go-to choice for students, casual users, and budget-conscious buyers. Over the years, Apple has consistently upgraded this model while keeping it affordable and functional.

• iPad 9th gen (2021): Retained the classic Home button design, featured the A13 Bionic chip, and supported Apple Pencil (1st gen).
• iPad 10th gen (2022): Introduced a redesigned look with flat edges, removed the Home button, upgraded to a USB-C port, and moved the front camera to the landscape position.

With these significant changes already made, what could the iPad 11th gen bring to the table?

Potential Features of the iPad 11th Gen

1. Performance Boost: A Faster Chip

The most obvious upgrade for the iPad 11th gen would be a new processor. The current 10th-gen iPad runs on the A14 Bionic, which, while powerful, is starting to show its age compared to newer Apple chips.

Apple could opt for:
✔ A15 Bionic (from iPhone 13 & iPad mini 6) – A modest upgrade that improves efficiency and battery life.
✔ A16 Bionic (from iPhone 14 Pro) – Less likely but would provide a noticeable performance leap.

With a new chip, the iPad 11th gen could handle:
✔ Better multitasking in iPadOS.
✔ Faster app performance, especially for education and creative tools.
✔ Enhanced gaming and augmented reality (AR) experiences.

2. A Smoother Display: 120Hz ProMotion?

One of the biggest drawbacks of the 10th-gen iPad was its non-laminated display, which resulted in a visible air gap between the glass and the LCD.

For the iPad 11th gen, Apple might:
✔ Improve the display quality by offering laminated glass for better visuals.
✔ Introduce ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate) – though this is usually reserved for iPad Pro models.
✔ Keep the 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, ensuring it remains the same size as its predecessor.

3. Design Tweaks: Slimmer Bezels & New Colors

The 10th-gen iPad introduced a fresh design with flat edges, following the iPad Air and Pro models. While the iPad 11th gen isn’t expected to drastically change its design, Apple might refine it further.

✔ Slimmer bezels for a more modern look.
✔ New color options – Apple could add Midnight or Starlight, following recent trends.
✔ Better speaker placement for improved stereo audio performance.

4. USB-C & Accessory Compatibility

Apple transitioned all iPads to USB-C, and the iPad 11th gen will continue this trend. USB-C offers:
✔ Faster data transfers and better accessory compatibility.
✔ Easier charging with universal cables.

The question remains whether Apple will improve keyboard and stylus support. Some possibilities include:
✔ Adding support for Apple Pencil (2nd Gen) – allowing for magnetic charging.
✔ Introducing a new keyboard case with improved typing functionality.

5. Software & iPadOS Enhancements

Apple’s iPadOS 18 is expected to further improve multitasking, making the iPad 11th gen even more capable for work and school. Potential enhancements include:
✔ More advanced widgets for customization.
✔ Improved Stage Manager support for better multitasking.
✔ Refined Apple Pencil features, enhancing note-taking and creative tasks.

How the iPad 11th Gen Fits into Apple’s Lineup

Apple’s iPad lineup is getting increasingly complex, with multiple models catering to different users. Here’s how the iPad 11th gen fits into the lineup:

✔ iPad 11th Gen (Entry-Level): Affordable, great for students, casual users.
✔ iPad Mini (6th Gen & Beyond): Smaller, more portable, but more expensive.
✔ iPad Air (M1 & Future Models): Offers M-series performance with a slim design.
✔ iPad Pro (M2 & Beyond): The ultimate iPad, with high-end performance and ProMotion display.

The iPad 11th gen will remain the best choice for budget-conscious consumers who don’t need advanced features like Face ID, M-series chips, or high refresh rates.

Potential Pricing & Release Date

1. Expected Pricing

Apple’s entry-level iPad has historically been the most affordable tablet in its lineup. While inflation and component costs fluctuate, Apple will likely keep the price competitive:

✔ Wi-Fi Model: Starting around $449 (same as the iPad 10th gen).
✔ Wi-Fi + Cellular Model: Around $599, following previous pricing trends.

Apple may adjust prices slightly if major hardware upgrades, such as a better display or Apple Pencil 2 support, are introduced.

2. Release Date Expectations

Apple typically releases new iPads in the fall, alongside new Macs or iPhones. If history repeats itself, the iPad 11th gen could launch:

✔ October 2025 – aligning with previous entry-level iPad launches.
✔ Early 2026 (March event) – if Apple pushes its timeline further.

Why the iPad 11th Gen Matters

The iPad 11th gen represents another incremental upgrade to Apple’s most affordable tablet. While not a revolutionary redesign, it will likely bring:

✔ A faster A15 or A16 chip for better performance.
✔ A more refined display with better visuals.
✔ USB-C and enhanced accessory support.
✔ iPadOS improvements to boost productivity.

For students, families, and those looking for a reliable tablet without breaking the bank, the iPad 11th gen will continue to be one of the best budget-friendly tablets on the market.