Apple has reportedly confirmed the hardware specifications for its next low‑cost tablet, the 12th‑generation iPad, after a MacRumors contributor examined the company’s internal code. The findings indicate that the new iPad will be powered by an A19 processor, paired with 8 GB of RAM, a C1X 5G modem and an N1 networking chip. These components represent a step up from the current model, which uses an A16 chip and 6 GB of RAM.
Hardware upgrades and AI capabilities
The shift from the A16 to the A19 silicon is expected to deliver a noticeable performance boost. More importantly, the A19 chip supports Apple Intelligence, the company’s suite of on‑device artificial‑intelligence features that include an upgraded Siri. The earlier iPad, equipped with the A16, lacks these AI capabilities. Apple Intelligence also has a minimum memory requirement of 8 GB, making the RAM increase from 6 GB to 8 GB a necessary change to enable the new features.
According to the code review, the extra memory will not only satisfy the AI requirement but also improve overall responsiveness and multitasking speed. The combination of a newer processor and additional RAM positions the iPad 12 as a more capable device for both everyday tasks and AI‑driven applications.
Connectivity and potential design changes
Connectivity receives a parallel upgrade. The device will incorporate Apple’s C1X modem, which supports sub‑6 GHz 5G bands and is described as more power‑efficient than the Qualcomm modem found in the current iPad. In addition, the inclusion of the N1 networking chip adds support for Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth 6 and the Thread protocol, broadening the tablet’s wireless capabilities.
While the code does not disclose any new color options, analysts suggest that the iPad 12 could appear in fresh finishes once it reaches production. The confirmed hardware upgrades, however, are the primary focus of the leak.
Pricing, timeline and related product updates
Apple has not announced a release date for the iPad 12, and industry observers do not expect the tablet to appear before spring 2027. The existing low‑cost iPad currently starts at $449 following a price increase in June 2026. The new model is projected to maintain the same entry price, though official confirmation is still pending.
Although a low‑cost iPad is not slated for launch this year, Apple is expected to refresh the iPad mini before the end of October. Rumors indicate that the refreshed mini will feature an A20 Pro chip, an upgraded speaker system, a landscape‑oriented front‑facing camera and possibly an OLED display as its main visual upgrade.
In related news, Apple has also released official images of its latest Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini. The HomePod mini will be available in five colors: green, pink, blue, white and black.
Mitchell Landsberg is a Senior Technology Correspondent at News Raise. He covers consumer electronics, artificial intelligence, software developments, and digital privacy trends.
