Apple released the latest versions of the iPad Pro and iPad Air in May 2024, but the last update to the regular iPad was the 10th generation model, back in October 2022, and the iPad mini sixth-generation came out in September 2021. Both seem due an upgrade, no? Here’s what we’re expecting and when.
iPad mini And iPad Expected In October
There were no iPads seen at the September special event. October seems likely, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. He said recently, “There are also new iPads in the works, including an upgraded mini version. They’re on deck for Apple’s October event alongside the M4 Macs.”
Apple iPad
Apple phased out the iPad ninth-generation when the Pro and Air launched. This was the only iPad with a Home Button on the front. The 10th-gen model was already in the range but this dropped in price significantly. It’s possible that the launch of an 11th-generation iPad will see the 10th-gen retire, or it could stay in the range at its lower price and the new model could arrive with a higher price sticker.
After all, every model of the iPhone 16 series is capable of Apple Intelligence, and Apple might want to add this to the new iPad, which would mean a much more powerful processer than the current model, either the A17 Pro or A18, I would guess. Either way, that suggests a higher price than the current 10th-generation iPad.
Apple iPad mini
The mini has always had a longer time between updates. Previous reports have said that the main selling point of the new mini will be the processor, suggesting both that the processor will be a big leap forward and the design will not change (as that would be a major selling point, too, if it did). My guess is the mini will have a more powerful processor than the iPad, likely the A18 or (less likely) the A18 Pro.
iPad mini And iPad 11th-Generation Release Date
Gurman has predicted an October event. Last year, this was held on October 30, just before Halloween, lending the keynote the tagline “Scary fast”. I’d expect the same sort of timeframe this year, perhaps on Monday, Oct. 28 or the week after, Monday, Nov. 4. Apple Intelligence arrives at some point in October and it makes sense to me that new hardware that’s Apple Intelligence-capable should arrive at or after the software is released.
Reports from display expert Ross Young have suggested that the screens for the regular iPad will start shipping in October. That’s a timeline that could mean the 11th-gen model might not reach stores until 2025. Which could mean we’ll only see the iPad mini (plus new Macs) at the next special event.
