Along with the new iPad Air, Apple today also updated the base iPad model, adding an A16 chip and more memory.
The cheapest iPad now comes with 128GB of storage, up from 64GB. Buyers can also opt for a 256GB or even 512GB version (previously, there was no such option).
The A16 chip in the new iPad is up to 30% faster than the A14 chip in the previous 10th-generation iPad. Apple also claims that its cheapest iPad is six times faster than the most popular Android tablet. Of course, the company does not specify the model of the tablet.
Unfortunately, the A16 chip is still not powerful enough to support Apple Intelligence. Therefore, the most budget iPad will not have AI features.
iPad 11 of course supports Apple Pencil (USB-C) for drawing and typing with a stylus, as well as Magic Keyboard Folio for more convenient typing.
The new iPad starts at $349. The device is available for pre-order now. First shipments will begin on March 12, 2025.