Tech media Macworld published an analysis on December 10, based on a leaked internal Apple code file from an early build of iOS 26, shedding light on Apple’s core 2026 iPad lineup plans.
Entry-Level iPad: A19 Chip and 8 GB RAM
The 2026 entry-level iPad (internal codenames J581 and J582, also referred to as iPad 12 or 12th-generation iPad) is expected to receive its most significant upgrade ever. According to the code, this model will be powered by the A19 chip, the same chip used in the current iPhone 17 series. Compared to the existing A16 chip, the A19 is reported to offer roughly 50% faster performance.
Notably, the base model’s memory will be increased from 6 GB to 8 GB to support Apple's Intelligent Features better and enhance multitasking performance. This upgrade should help bring the entry-level iPad closer in capability to higher-end models.
iPad Air: Upgraded to M4 Chip
The leaked code also indicates that the next-generation iPad Air (with internal codenames spanning J707 to J738) will move from the current **M3 chip to the new M4 chip. While the performance jump from M3 to M4 may not be as dramatic as the entry-level upgrade, it should still provide a noticeable performance boost for everyday tasks and creative workflows.
Apple-Designed N1 Wireless Chip for Both Models
Both the new entry-level iPad and the updated iPad Air are expected to include Apple’s self-developed N1 wireless chip, which was first introduced with the iPhone 17 lineup. This chipset aims to improve connection stability and reduce wireless latency compared to third-party solutions.
Design Likely Unchanged
Despite these internal hardware improvements, the leaked information suggests that neither the basic iPad nor the iPad Air will see significant external design changes. Screen sizes, body design, and rear camera modules are likely to remain essentially unchanged from the current models.
No iPad Pro or iPad mini Details Yet
Notably, the leaked code did not include information about new iPad Pro or iPad mini models. Given the irregular update cycles for these product lines, Apple may delay their refresh until later in 2026 or in a future iOS build.
The above content is compiled by ModeZone, a fashion and entertainment magazine.
