Roblox’s new AI game creation tool Build lets iPhone users turn a text prompt into a playable game. Give it a try!
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
Every iPad is rumored to get an upgrade in the next year. It all starts with an OLED iPad mini, and here's what's coming across the lineup.
(via Cult of Mac - Your source for the latest Apple news, rumors, analysis, reviews, how-tos and deals.)
I had a simple task that involved Apple Home. If you use Apple Home, you know what happened next. Tears, frustration, the arrival of batteries, paperclips pushed into hard-to-reach holes, many online searches, and—if you are lucky, as I was—success.
My goal was straightforward: can I know if the garage door is open without going to look? Early in the pandemic, we occasionally forgot to close it. While there was a locked door between the garage and the house, it still felt like we were playing with fire, as someone could steal a bike or other lesser goodies from the garage.1 The garage is on our basement floor (ground level on one half of the house), and the last thing I enjoy doing at night is walking downstairs before bed to check the door.2
I purchased an Eve Door & Window Contact Sensor to have this capability reported by Apple Home, joining a growing set of HomeKit devices, including our front-door deadbolt. Because of our old-style single-piece swing-up garage door, I had a heck of a time finding the right place and right adhesive to stick the sensor where it was close enough for the two components to register.
I spent enough time on the vagaries of physics and materials that I was probably more frustrated than I needed to be when I tried to make a workflow with the danged thing. An Automation wouldn’t work because I wanted an alert, not for the sensor to trigger other Home devices. A Shortcut should have worked, but after many hours of trying over weeks, I was unable to get anything reliable to happen. The Automation was quite simple: at 9 p.m., check the state of the sensor, and send me a message if the sensor shows Open rather than Closed. I left it in place and walked away for literally years.
After recently installing a back-driveway camera, I was determined to get this sensor online.3 First, I replaced the battery, which had died during my period of disinterest. The Eve sensor uses a weird, tiny battery: a 3.6V 1/2 AA (ER14250). After that arrived, using some better adhesive—thin-film 3M 468MP—I positioned the sensor pieces in a better location and more securely.
Now it should work! Except that after adding it, I saw Characteristic in red text on a pink background in Shortcuts. Some online research led me to reset the sensor by inserting a paperclip into a hole I hadn’t noticed. After re-pairing the sensor, I was in business! Or was I?! The sensor wasn’t responding, despite recent status updates.
This led me to the next culprit: the garage is too far away (one floor and the other end of the house) from my Apple TV, which acts as a Matter controller, while the Eve sensor relies on Thread as its communication protocol. What’s a Matter controller?4 And what’s Thread?
Matter is an overarching standard, painstakingly developed even as low-power sensing devices and other equipment proliferated in silos. Matter enables Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings devices to communicate across a network, regardless of the network transport medium (Ethernet, Thread, or Wi-Fi). This prevents you from needing ecosystem-specific hubs and lets manufacturers build to a common standard.
Thread fits into this mix as a low-power, wireless networking standard for sensors, allowing them to communicate their status without rapidly draining their batteries, as would happen with Wi-Fi.5 Apple initially supported Thread with a proprietary standard, HomeKit-over-Thread, and later added direct Matter support. The Eve sensor was just old enough that it was running on the older standard, but the Eve app allowed me to apply a firmware upgrade. I could then migrate the sensor to Matter, which seems to be more reliable.
Apple made things a little confusing here, too. The 1st-generation Apple TV 4K supports Matter, but lacks a Thread radio, so it can’t work with Thread-based devices. The 2nd generation added that radio, so you can do Matter over Thread. But then, with the 3rd generation, Apple bifurcated Thread hardware support: the 64 GB Wi-Fi only model lacks a Thread radio; you have to spend the now-whopping $249 for a 128 GB Wi-Fi + Ethernet version if you want to use Thread.
Failing an Apple TV 4K with Thread, you can use a Thread border router (TBR), which sometimes comes with sensor kits. This plugs into your network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet and bridges to the Thread network, allowing the Apple TV’s Matter controller to work with the Home app on your devices for automations, notifications, and so forth.
It’s that easy, folks. Sigh.
I do own a 3rd-generation Apple TV 4K with Wi-Fi + Ethernet, because I am a fancy man and a big spender, but I really wanted the reliability of plugging it into my Ethernet network. Yet, I couldn’t get the Eve sensor’s Thread radio to reach across my house to talk to the Apple TV. I bought a TBR, thinking it would solve the problem.
By the time the TBR was delivered, however, the garage door sensor magically connected via Thread to the Apple TV and has been rock solid. The TBR that arrived, on the other hand, I was unable to pair and get working, so back it goes for a refund.
Now my nightly Shortcut works! The only fly in that ointment is that the sensor status reports as Closed or Open in iOS and iPadOS, but as 0 (closed) or 1 (open) in the macOS Home app, in both macOS 26 and the beta of 27. I can live with running the Shortcut from my phone.
[Got a question for the column? You can email glenn@sixcolors.com or use /glenn in our subscriber-only Discord community.]
My beloved sister-in-law-in-law (my wife’s brother’s spouse) texted me with an important problem. Her mother had managed to delete the App Store from her Home Screen. How to restore it? While this is a common problem, I realized that the process is completely unintuitive.
For her mother’s particular situation, the answer felt like a cheat code for a video game: unlock, swipe left (once or more), search, touch and hold, drag. Done.
It’s worth a full review of how modern Home Screen management even works in iOS (and iPadOS), with the App Library view off some people’s radar entirely. Apple has, fortunately, not changed this process so far in the iOS 27/iPadOS 27 betas.
I don’t use the term baroque lightly. However, Apple’s flowchart for choices you can make when deleting an app and what happens next has added some curlicues and ornamentation that can confuse the best of us.
It works like this:
First, touch and hold an app. That’s the easy part.
Now we fork into various swirls and pathways. Choose either Remove App or Require Face ID.
Remove App: You can pick from two options (or tap Cancel):
Delete App: Deleting an app removes the app from your device and its data stored on the device. This shouldn’t affect iCloud-synced data if you use the app on other platforms or other identical devices.
Require Face ID: Enabling Require Face ID hides content within the app from Spotlight results. You can add Hide to Require Face ID and also hide the app itself from Spotlight searches. Here are the two Face ID variations:
Hide and Require Face ID: One step further, the app icon isn’t actually hidden! It remains in “obscured” fashion on the Home Screen, and appears in Hidden Apps in App Library. A hidden app that produces notifications, handles calls, or sends critical alerts has those suppressed as well. (Despite the statement that “This app will be obscured on your Home Screen,” it was simply removed for me.)
So, let me get this straight. If you remove the app from the Home Screen or Require Face ID, you can still search for it in Spotlight. If you delete it, it’s gone (though Spotlight may show it as a tap-to-download option from the App Store in results). If you Hide and Require Face ID, you can’t search for it or its contents, but you can find it in a Hidden folder in App Library. Got it, got it.
Despite the above, I have to throw in a big HOWEVER.1 If the app is one of a few made by Apple and preinstalled, you can only remove it from the Home Screen. For instance, touch and hold Settings, Camera, Safari, and a few others, and then choose Remove App: only Remove from Home Screen appears; you can’t delete it, and you can’t use Hide and Require Face ID. Other Apple apps, like Stocks or Weather, may be freely tossed. Perfectly consistent and clear.
Since you now have perfect knowledge of all of these states and interactions, let’s look next at App Library, your Home Screen away from Home Screen.
I have used a succession of apps that I call, with affection, my “junk-drawer” apps. If you don’t have a drawer in your kitchen that is full of miscellaneous crap that you nonetheless occasionally or regularly need, but which has no place in any other drawer or organizational system, congratulations: you’ve just outed yourself as an extraterrestrial and Earth’s First Contact Committee is on its way.
For example, I throw in every piece of text, PDF, photo of receipt, file, and other detritus that I need to keep handy and email or a folder isn’t accessible enough. Then I can search within the app—convenient since everything is now OCR’d by default, so I can find any word or phrase across all media in the app.2
App Library is the equivalent of this, but just for apps. Do you find Spotlight too effusive in its results? Want to have an organizational scheme for apps you don’t have to set up or maintain? Swipe left until you get to the App Library page. You can scroll through pseudo-folders, from which you can tap to launch apps with full-size icons or tap groups of tiny icons to open the pseudo-folder categorizing those apps. You can also use the search field at the top to search only for apps, as opposed to using Spotlight. At the very bottom of the library is where you find Hidden, the not-exactly hidden set of Hide and Require Face ID apps.
To reverse previous choices from an app, App Library, or via Spotlight if the app is searchable:
If you deleted an app, you can search for its name in Spotlight, and you may see it in a list with a cloud download icon; you can tap that to restore it, but not its data, which you might be able to recall via logging into an account or it syncing with iCloud. You can also tap Search App Store in Spotlight. Or, launch App Store, search for the app’s name, and tap the cloud download button.
Reader Peter wrote in with a related question I can answer briefly: “No.” I’m sad about that, though. His question? He has a weirdly undeletable app—he can delete it, but it always reappears immediately and persists across migrations and devices. He wondered whether, after he triggered Settings: General: Transfer or Reset Phone: Reset: Reset Home Screen Layout, he could restore his painstakingly set-up Home Screen layouts.
If you have a suggestion, write me, or post in the Six Colors Discord, available to members. Discord is also where you can send a question for the column directly by using /glenn.
My Codex setup.
In the current era of coding agents becoming productivity assistants, iPadOS’ limitations are no longer defined by the lack of desktop-class multitasking or access to external peripherals. A new class of iPadOS shortcomings looms large on the horizon: the iPad’s app sandboxing and the absence of an open filesystem have relegated it to acting as a remote control for agents.
I’ve been ruminating on this thought for some time. I, of course, am very satisfied with the improvements Apple brought to the iPadOS platform throughout the 26 cycle: between new windowing, local capture, a menu bar, and the improved Files app, I can get most of my old-school work done on the iPad Pro without begrudging the experience like I used to a few years ago. What I’ve noticed this year, however, is that iPadOS 26 was an update designed to address the pre-existing low-hanging fruit of quasi-desktop efficiency; by design – and we have Craig Federighi on the record saying as much – it wasn’t intended to reinvent the wheel in any meaningful way.
That would have been fine a few years ago. The problem is that the productivity wheel is literally being reinvented by other companies as we speak. And in an unsurprising turn of events, the Mac is at the forefront of that reinvention, while the iPad is being left behind once again.
I’m writing this as someone who likes to be on the bleeding edge of AI tools. Since the release of Claude Code in early 2025, I (and, realistically, millions of other nerds whose taste aligns with mine) have increasingly moved a lot of my research, automation, coding, and other tasks considered “productivity” to desktop agents. These are powered by the same underlying technology as chatbots, but they’re considerably more powerful: Claude Code and Cowork, Codex, Perplexity’s Personal Computer, and self-hosted agents like OpenClaw and Hermes can understand intent and perform long-running tasks on your computer. They can write code, stay on a task for hours (or even days) at a time, analyze the contents of your screen, and even use a computer on their own. To believe that these AI tools are still a fad and chatbots are useless is misinformation at this point.
As of June 2026, I spend most of my days with two apps constantly open on my M4 Pro MacBook Pro: Codex and Notion. I’m a huge fan of what OpenAI has accomplished with Codex for Mac; their all-in-one package that combines thread-based chats with skills, plugins, connectors, computer use, memories, and system-wide filesystem access has genuinely allowed me to produce content for my audience that I wouldn’t have even dreamed of years ago. Since I started working with Codex, I’ve released a major update to Apple Frames, two CLIs (with two more coming soon), Shortcuts Playground, and a brand new MacStories Shortcuts Archive. These are actual products that are used by thousands of people and are generating real revenue for MacStories. I’ve also created an entire suite of MacStories-only internal apps (now used by our whole team) and am currently in the process of researching my iOS 27 review, creating an app for Shortcuts Playground, and brainstorming a different product altogether for MCP.
I’m doing all of this on a Mac because the true Codex experience isn’t even “desktop-only”: it’s Mac-only.
Let me give you some examples. To make the original version of Shortcuts Playground, I had Codex with Computer Use scrape my entire library on the old MacStories Shortcuts Archive, download over 300 shortcuts, and learn my coding style. Once I had a plugin, I also had Codex create over 1,000 shortcuts on its own, install them in the Shortcuts app for Mac, and debug them visually to find issues. For the new Shortcuts Playground plugin and app, I’m going even further: Codex created over 3,500 shortcuts spanning the entire library of Shortcuts actions while simultaneously coordinating with other Codex threads – some of which are running on my Mac Studio – to build an app, train a local model for Core AI, and constantly iterate on the new harness behind the app. Meanwhile, I’m also spending time in Codex organizing sources for my iOS 27 review, managing my tasks with Reminders and my own RemCTL, and performing general research on any topic I think of. The net result of all this is that I’m shipping more things, making more money for MacStories, saving money thanks to our new internal tools, and – most importantly – learning a lot and having fun.
Working with Codex for Mac.
Some of the CLIs I’ve built. Two of them are coming soon.
In all of this, the iPad’s role is to be, once again, an accessory to the Mac – and a rather expensive one at that. I wrote last year about iPadOS’ third-party app problem, and I still think all of it applies today. What’s different in 2026 is that these powerful agentic tools that are redefining coding and knowledge work, and which are centralizing productivity inside so-called “super apps”, aren’t coming to the iPad, but not for political or financial reasons: they’re Mac-only because only macOS is mature and open enough to support them.
In a funny twist of fate, Apple spent years trying to make iPadOS catch up to macOS on the surface, only for macOS’ underlying nature to unlock a new generation of apps that are rewriting the rules of modern software. No amount of windowing and menu bars can change the fact that neither Claude Cowork nor Codex will ever be possible on the current version of iPadOS. From an open filesystem that lets agents poke around anywhere to powerful Accessibility and Screen Recording APIs for developers to features like system-wide hotkeys, dictation, and true background processes, Apple’s oldest operating system is the one that feels the freshest (and the most powerful) in the AI industry today.
In fact, the Mac is so powerful and well-equipped for this new wave of desktop agents, it even yields an amazing experience when used in a “headless” setup with no display attached to it. This may have started as a trend because of OpenClaw, but six months later, I believe that a Mac mini with Codex running on it is the best bang for your buck if you’re building an always-on agentic setup based on a frontier model that can do just about anything you throw at it.
Which brings me to the iPad’s only silver lining in this space right now.
Most of my Codex tasks are running on my Mac Studio server, but I also use Codex on my MacBook Pro. Thanks to Codex’s support for remote connections, I can chat with threads running on the Mac Studio from the Codex app on a different machine, which is a fantastic feature. Alternatively, I can use Apple’s excellent (and, again, Mac-only) Screen Sharing app to log into my headless Mac and interact with macOS with superior performance and image quality to VNC. (I also use this HDMI 2.1 dummy plug to unlock 4K resolution when headless.) Coordinating Codex threads across different projects and machines feels like the sort of thing that shouldn’t be possible, yet here we are.
If the iPad is still relevant to me in this specific new way of working, it’s entirely because of the ChatGPT app and the fact that OpenAI cared enough to design a good remote experience for iPhone and iPad users. The Codex section inside ChatGPT is a solid product and getting better every week; it’s also the only app of this kind that lets you connect to multiple computers at once and manage threads across all of them. With Codex remote on iPad, I can continue my projects from the MacBook Pro or Mac Studio, pin specific threads, and keep an eye on all my agents working in the background. In general, it’s also a way to bridge functionalities that are missing from iPadOS. Without Codex remote, I wouldn’t be able to ask my agent to reschedule my reminders and turn some emails into tasks in the same workflow; I wouldn’t be able to tell my agent to go to the Apple Newsroom, find me a specific press release, extract all images from it, and upload them to our CDN.
Codex remote on iPad.
Perhaps Siri AI will unlock similar capabilities (although I doubt to the degree of a frontier desktop agent), but it’ll still be limited to apps made by companies that decide to support App Intents. When I’m not using my Mac and I think of something I can’t do on the iPad these days, I instantly reach for Codex inside ChatGPT. I suspect this trend will only grow as more AI companies release similar remote experiences for iOS and iPadOS.
Here’s the issue, though: these are remote companion experiences. It’s great that they exist and that OpenAI cared enough to make them great, but they’re still no substitutes for the real Codex experience on a Mac. It’s ironic if you think about it, isn’t it? A headless Mac is still more flexible and powerful than an iPad hamstrung by the closed nature of its own OS and software gatekeeping.
My headless Mac Studio in Mirage for iPad.
Mirage for iPad’s app launcher.
If you’re among the five million people using Codex on a weekly basis and will be planning your next laptop purchase in a few months, perhaps these considerations will change the calculus for you. Especially in the face of price increases and RAM uncertainty, would you be better served by spending $1,499 on a hybrid laptop that gets work done the old way with 256 GB of storage, or $1,499 on a computer where AI is a first-class citizen with 24 GB of RAM and double the storage? If we accept that power users’ priorities and workflows will be dramatically changing in the near future (if they haven’t already!), all prices being equal, which OS is best positioned for the future?
Of course, I like using both an iPad Pro and a Mac for different tasks. But let’s face it; in this day and age – and especially after last week – not everybody has the budget for two computers that have some overlap between them. Sure, I could argue that an iPad Pro + a headless Mac mini is an insane combo to get the best of both worlds these days: the nimble and delightful nature of iPadOS and the freedom to experiment with AI on a Mac. You can install apps like the latest Jump Desktop beta or the great new screen sharing app Mirage on the iPad and use your Mac mini almost as if it were connected to the iPad’s display. Set up Tailscale on your network, and the Mac’s power can be with you at all times. But that’s a lot of money, and a lot of setup, to achieve an approximation of what a single MacBook Air can handle with more memory, more storage, and a couple of Mac apps.
I’m sure that Apple is aware of the changing nature of this landscape, but in a similar vein to chatbots and Siri, perhaps they were unprepared for the tide of agents to accelerate so quickly. If the idea of putting macOS on an iPad Pro continues to be a non-starter at Apple, and assuming agent-based coding and knowledge work are here to stay, what should the company do to make sure the iPad doesn’t get left behind again? Is a sandboxed Terminal for iPad backed by a dedicated “Agent Framework” the solution? Is working with other companies to build more “remote companion” apps the way forward?
Or, perhaps more obviously: how long until Siri AI can also become a capable agent, connected to App Intents, on par with competing frontier agents?
Until, and if, that happens, the iPad will once again play the role of sidekick to macOS.
When it comes to the bleeding edge of AI and pushing the frontier of agents forward, there’s nothing like the Mac.
Apple raised the prices of Macs and other products across the board today. For entry-level Macs, the increases are mostly $100–$200. However, if you want a MacBook Pro or Mac Studio with lots of memory and storage, it’s going to cost you dearly. Prices were also raised on the iPad, Vision Pro, Apple TV, HomePods, and many items sold through Apple’s refurbished store.
This should come as no surprise to anyone, but it’s painful just the same. Last week, Tim Cook told The Wall Street Journal that price increases were coming without getting into specifics. Apple was able to hold the line on prices for several months, even while smaller gadget and computer makers raised their prices or canceled products altogether.
What’s happening is simple macroeconomics. Demand for memory and storage is vastly outstripping supply, largely due to the insatiable appetite of data centers that power AI services. That demand shows no signs of waning, and supply isn’t as simple as turning a knob to 11. There just aren’t that many makers of memory chips and SSDs, and bringing new plants online to manufacture takes years and billions of dollars.
For now, the price of iPhones has been left alone. Some may see that as a silver lining, but I suspect all it means is that Apple has enough prebuilt inventory to get to September, when new iPhones are announced. Apple Watch and AirPods prices remain the same, too.
Could Apple have avoided this? I doubt it. The magnitude and speed of the price increases and the projected duration are beyond what any reasonable company could or would plan for.
That said, I do think the situation will get better with time, again because of macroeconomics. The increases may preserve Apple’s margins, but it’s going to reduce the number of customers who can afford its products. Margins only equate to profits if you have customers willing to pay for your product. So with time, if the data center demand slackens or new chip capacity comes online, prices will improve. Just don’t expect that anytime before 2027 or 2028 if current projections are to be believed.
MultiSwitcher for iPadOS.
Update: An earlier version of this article referred to this feature as having been introduced in iPadOS 27, but it was actually introduced in the iPadOS 26 cycle. I missed it. My apologies.
In iPadOS’ Shortcuts app, the existing ‘Open App’ action was recently updated with the ability to launch an app with a specific window placement parameter. This means you can now automate window positions on iPad by opening a bunch of apps and programmatically selecting where their windows be placed.
To find this feature, use the ‘Open App’ action in Shortcuts and expand it to reveal the new ‘Window Location & Size’ field. Here, you can click the default ‘Full Screen’ value to reveal a host of options:
You can play around with these options to open any app and resize any window by choosing from the same presets that are otherwise shown by iPadOS when right-clicking the traffic light controls:
Some of the options supported by the ‘Open App’ action.
That was a neat discovery, but as I was playing around with the action, I realized that its practical utility would be impacted by the fact that you have to manually pre-select the app you want to open as well as its window layout. Wouldn’t it be better if you could turn this Shortcuts action into a reusable technique to programmatically get whichever app is in the foreground with no manual selection upfront, then also give it a pre-selected window preset? As it turns out, you absolutely can.
This is why I created MultiSwitcher, a simple proof-of-concept shortcut for iPadOS users that lets you resize any foreground window to a preset of your choice – no manual input necessary. The idea is fairly straightforward: you can use the ‘Get Current App’ action to get the name of the foreground app, pass it to the ‘Open App’ action, and also pre-configure that action to accept a layout variable.
This new parameter of the ‘Open App’ action supports configurable options.
MultiSwitcher is best used as a shortcut added to your iPad’s dock, so you can click it at any time and instantly resize the foreground window. For MultiSwitcher, I designed a visual menu (with some ASCII characters) that lets you preview window layouts, pick one, and resize the currently frontmost window. It doesn’t have to be this way, though: if you’d rather add multiple variations of MultiSwitcher to your dock, each with a specific window size already selected, you can also do that and skip the menu. The choice is up to you.
While these newfound window-control capabilities for iPadOS are still a far cry from the Mac’s breadth of window managers and multitasking tweaks, I find this implementation in Shortcuts to be quite elegant and intuitive for most users to grasp with no need for a third-party app.
You can download MultiSwitcher for iPadOS below.
Control iPadOS window placement by selecting from a list of preset window sizes. The shortcut will resize the currently frontmost window.
If you’re thinking about buying an iPad in 2026, timing matters. If you’re hoping for a bargain, July 2026 isn’t the ideal time. Apple raised iPad prices by $100–$200 in June, making today’s models more expensive than they were earlier this year. The next major opportunities to save are likely to come during sales events such as Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday.
If you can’t wait – for example, because your current iPad no longer receives software updates, feels slow, has poor battery life, or doesn’t support Apple Intelligence – upgrading now may be the right choice. In that case, the safest models to buy are the iPad Air (M4) and iPad Pro (M5), as neither is expected to be replaced until 2027. By contrast, the entry-level iPad (A16) and iPad mini (A17 Pro) are both expected to be refreshed before the end of 2026, so waiting is likely to pay off unless you find a substantial discount.
Before buying, consider whether you really need a Pro model, a cellular version, or even an iPad at all. If you’re looking for a laptop replacement, a MacBook Neo may offer better value. Buying refurbished is another smart way to save money, with Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store and reputable retailers offering lower prices while still providing a warranty and years of software support.
In this guide, we’ll explain the best and worst times to buy an iPad, which models are worth buying now, when the next updates are expected, and how to get the best value whether you’re buying new or refurbished. If you’re still deciding which iPad is right for you, see our complete iPad buying guide.
| Model | Buying advice | Starting Price (New MSRP) | Key Differentiator | Next Update | Last Updated | Previous update |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPad (A16) | Wait — overdue for update, likely late 2026 | $449 | Most affordable entry point; does not support Apple Intelligence | By end of 2026 | March 2025 | October 2022 |
| iPad mini (A17 Pro) | Wait — new model expected late 2026 | $599 | Ultra-portable; supports Apple Intelligence | By end of 2026 | October 2024 | September 2021 |
| iPad Air (M4) | Buy now — recently refreshed | $749 (11-inch) / $949 (13-inch) | Best balance of performance, features, and price for most users | 2027 | March 2026 | March 2025 |
| iPad Pro (M5) | Buy now — not due for update until 2027 | $1,199 (11-inch) / $1,499 (13-inch) | Top-tier performance, Tandem OLED display, ProMotion, Face ID | 2027 | October 2025 | May 2024 |
As of July 2026, two iPads are safe to buy without worrying about an imminent replacement: the iPad Air (M4) and iPad Pro (M5). Both were updated recently and aren’t expected to be refreshed until 2027.
The entry-level iPad (A16) and iPad mini (A17 Pro) are a different story. Both are widely expected to receive updates before the end of 2026, making them harder to recommend unless you find them at a significant discount.
Here’s our breakdown of the four types of iPad that Apple currently sells, and in each case whether you should buy now or wait.
Should you buy? No
The entry-level iPad was last updated in March 2025 and is now the oldest model in Apple’s lineup. It remains the only current iPad that doesn’t support Apple Intelligence, making it a less future-proof purchase than the rest of the range.
A replacement is expected before the end of 2026, potentially bringing Apple Intelligence support and a faster processor. Unless you can find the current model at a substantial discount, it’s worth waiting.
Read our full Apple iPad (A16) review
Should you buy? No
The current iPad mini launched in October 2024 and remains an excellent compact tablet with Apple Intelligence support. However, multiple reports suggest Apple will update it later in 2026, likely with a faster A19 Pro chip.
If you need a small tablet today, the current model is still a good buy – particularly if it’s discounted. Otherwise, waiting a few months should bring a worthwhile performance upgrade.
Read our full Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro) review
Should you buy? Yes
The iPad Air (M4), introduced in March 2026, is the newest iPad in Apple’s lineup. Available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, it features the M4 chip, 12GB of RAM, Wi-Fi 7, and an excellent balance of performance, features, and price.
For most people, it’s the best iPad Apple sells and is unlikely to be replaced until 2027, making now an excellent time to buy.
Should you buy? Yes
The iPad Pro (M5), launched in October 2025, remains Apple’s most capable tablet. It combines the M5 chip with a stunning Tandem OLED ProMotion display, support for up to 2TB of storage, and class-leading performance. The next update isn’t expected until 2027.
That said, it’s the right choice only if you’ll benefit from its extra power. Creative professionals working with demanding apps, large media projects, or intensive multitasking will appreciate what it offers. Most other buyers will find the iPad Air delivers a very similar everyday experience for considerably less money. Likewise, children and casual users are generally better served by the standard iPad or iPad mini than by Apple’s most expensive tablet.
Read our full Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M5, 2025) review
Foundry
The best time to buy an iPad is during major shopping events, particularly Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day, when retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart typically offer their biggest discounts.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday (November/December)
Black Friday is usually the best time of the year to buy an iPad. In 2025, every current iPad model reached its lowest-ever price during the Black Friday sales, with discounts of up to $150. The entry-level iPad (A16), for example, fell to just $274.
If you can wait until November, Black Friday is your best opportunity to get the lowest prices on almost every iPad model. See Black Friday iPad deals.
Amazon Prime Day (June/July and October)
Amazon now holds two major Prime Day sales each year – one in June or July and another in October – and both regularly feature excellent iPad deals.
The June 2026 event was particularly significant because in the middle of the sale Apple increased iPad prices by $100 to $300, which made the discounts even larger.
The October Prime Day sale often matches or comes close to Black Friday discounts and is another excellent time to buy. It is also possible that the new iPads will have launched by then. See Prime Day iPad deals.
During Apple’s Back to School promotion
If you’re a student, teacher, or work in education, Apple’s Education Store offers year-round discounts on most iPads. During Apple’s annual Back to School promotion in the summer, eligible buyers also receive a free gift card, making it one of the best times to buy directly from Apple.
Note that the criteria are very strict for shopping in Apple’s Education Store. Customers need to verify their eligibility through UNiDAYS before accessing Education Store pricing.
The worst time to buy an iPad is just before Apple releases a new model. You’ll often end up paying full price for a device that’s about to be replaced, while retailers discount the outgoing model to clear stock.
As of July 2026, the entry-level iPad (A16) and iPad mini (A17 Pro) fall into that category, with both expected to be refreshed before the end of 2026.
There are a few other situations where it’s worth thinking twice before buying:
If a major sale is just around the corner: If Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday is only a few weeks away, it’s usually worth waiting. These sales consistently offer the biggest iPad discounts of the year, often saving you $100 or more compared with buying at full price.
If you want a laptop replacement: An iPad can replace a laptop for some people, but it becomes much less compelling once you add accessories. A Magic Keyboard or similar case can add hundreds of dollars to the cost, bringing the total close to – or even above – the price of a MacBook. With the arrival of the $699 MacBook Neo, the value equation has shifted further. A similarly equipped iPad and keyboard can cost more while still being limited to iPadOS and mobile apps rather than full desktop software.
If you’re buying an older iPad: Discounts on older or refurbished iPads can be tempting, but always check how long they’ll continue to receive software updates. iPadOS 27 drops support for several older models, including the 2018 iPad Pro (3rd generation), 2019 iPad mini (5th generation) and 2020 iPad (8th generation). Buying an unsupported model means you’ll miss future features, security updates and, eventually, app compatibility.
If you want Apple Intelligence: Apple Intelligence isn’t available on every iPad. It requires an M1 chip or later (iPad Air and iPad Pro) or the A17 Pro chip in the current iPad mini. The entry-level iPad (A16) does not support Apple’s AI features, making it a less future-proof purchase.
If you don’t need cellular: Think carefully before paying extra for a 5G cellular model. Cellular connectivity typically adds more than $100 to the purchase price, and you’ll usually need a separate data plan. If you already carry an iPhone, using Personal Hotspot is often a far cheaper alternative.
If fast wired transfers matter: Most people won’t notice USB speeds, but they matter if you regularly transfer large files via cable. The standard iPad is limited to USB 2.0 (480Mbps), the iPad mini supports 5Gbps, the iPad Air 10Gbps, while the iPad Pro offers Thunderbolt speeds of up to 40Gbps.
Apple rarely discounts iPads. In fact, in June 2026, Apple increased iPad prices by $100 to $200, citing unprecedented component cost increases. The price rise came in the middle of Amazon’s Prime Day sale, during which we saw record-low prices. Prices that low are unlikely to return until a major sales event such as October Prime Day or Black Friday.
Right now, the best U.S. deals we are seeing are:
In the U.K., the standout deal is:
Here are the new starting prices compared to the old prices, the best price in July 2026, and the best prices we have seen:
| iPad | Deal | New MSRP | Old MSRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A16, 128GB | $427.99 Get the deal at Amazon $21 off | $449 | $349 | $271.29 |
| A16, 256GB | $522 Get the deal at Amazon $27 off | $549 | $449 | $349.72 |
| A16, 512GB | $712 Get the deal at Amazon $37 off | $749 | $649 | $499 |
| iPad mini | Deal | New MSRP | Old MSRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A17 Pro, 128GB | $574 Get the deal at Amazon $25 off | $599 | $499 | $349 |
| A17 Pro, 256GB | $664 Get the deal at Amazon $35 off | $699 | $599 | $479 |
| A17 Pro, 512GB | $871 Get the deal at Amazon $28 off | $899 | $799 | $679 |
| iPad Air | Deal | New MSRP | Old MSRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M4, 11-inch, 128GB | $700.77 Get the deal at Amazon $48 off | $749 | $599 | $519.99 |
| M4, 11-inch, 256GB | $829.99 Get the deal at Amazon $19 off | $849 | $699 | $609.99 |
| M4, 11-inch, 512GB | $1,019 Get the deal at Amazon $30 off | $1,049 | $899 | $789 |
| M4, 11-inch, 1TB | $1,349 at Amazon | $1,349 | $1,099 | $1,016.50 |
| M4, 13-inch, 128GB | $919.99 Get the deal at Amazon $29 off | $949 | $799 | $699.99 |
| M4, 13-inch, 256GB | $1,019.99 Get the deal at Amazon $29 off | $1,049 | $899 | $699.99 |
| M4, 13-inch, 512GB | $1,049 Get the deal at Amazon $200 off | $1,249 | $1,099 | $999 |
| M4, 13-inch, 1TB | $1,477 Get the deal at Amazon $72 off | $1,549 | $1,299 | $1,199 |
| iPad Pro | iPad Pro | New MSRP | Old MSRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M5, 11-inch, 256GB | $1,139 Get the deal at Amazon $60 off | $1,199 | $999 | $799.91 |
| M5, 11-inch, 512GB | $1,329 Get the deal at Amazon $70 off | $1,399 | $1,199 | $999.99 |
| M5, 11-inch, 1TB | $1,709 Get the deal at Amazon $90 off | $1,799 | $1,599 | $1,399.99 |
| M5, 11-inch, 2TB | $2,181 Get the deal at Amazon $118 | $2,299 | $1,999 | $1,799 |
| M5, 13-inch, 256GB | $1,424 Get the deal at Amazon $75 off | $1,499 | $1,299 | $1,149 |
| M5, 13-inch, 512GB | $1,499 Get the deal at Amazon $200 off | $1,699 | $1,499 | $1,341 |
| M5, 13-inch, 1TB | $2,011 Get the deal at Amazon $88 off | $2,099 | $1,899 | $1,723 |
| M5, 13-inch, 2TB | $2,449 Get the deal at Amazon $150 off | $2,599 | $2,299 | $2,083.12 |
| iPad | Deal | New RRP | Old RRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A16, 128GB | £409 Get the deal at Amazon | £429 | £329 | £299 |
| A16, 256GB | £525.17 Get the deal at Amazon | £529 | £449 | £399 |
| A16, 512GB | £723.71 Get the deal at Amazon | £729 | £649 | £579 |
| iPad mini | Deal | New RRP | Old RRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A17 Pro, 128GB | £594.66 Get the deal at Amazon | £599 | £499 | £399 |
| A17 Pro, 256GB | £694 Get the deal at Amazon | £699 | £599 | £519 |
| A17 Pro, 512GB | Out of stock | £899 | £799 | £739.97 |
| iPad Air | Deal | New RRP | Old RRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M4, 11-inch, 128GB | £743.57 Get the deal at Amazon | £749 | £599 | £578.99 |
| M4, 11-inch, 256GB | £842.83 Get the deal at Amazon | £849 | £699 | £678.96 |
| M4, 11-inch, 512GB | £1,049 at Amazon | £1,049 | £899 | ££869.95 |
| M4, 11-inch, 1TB | £1,349 at Amazon | £1,349 | £1,099 | |
| M4, 13-inch, 128GB | £939 Get the deal at Amazon | £949 | £799 | £768.99 |
| M4, 13-inch, 256GB | £1,041.41 Get the deal at Amazon | £1,049 | £899 | £867.17 |
| M4, 13-inch, 512GB | £1,239.94 Get the deal at Amazon | £1,249 | £1,099 | £1,060.09 |
| M4, 13-inch, 1TB | £1,549 at Amazon | £1,549 | £1,299 | £1,253 |
| iPad Pro | Deal | New RRP | Old RRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M5, 11-inch, 256GB | £1,163.63 Get the deal at Amazon £35 off | £1,199 | £999 | £929 |
| M5, 11-inch, 512GB | Out of stock | £1,399 | £1,199 | £1,099 |
| M5, 11-inch, 1TB | £1,799 at Amazon | £1,799 | £1,599 | |
| M5, 11-inch, 2TB | Out of stock | £2,299 | £1,999 | |
| M5, 13-inch, 256GB | £1,496.62 Get the deal at Amazon | £1,499 | £1,299 | £1,169.10 |
| M5, 13-inch, 512GB | £1,699 at Amazon | £1,699 | £1,499 | £1,349 |
| M5, 13-inch, 1TB | £2,089 at Amazon | £2,099 | £1,899 | £1,769 |
| M5, 13-inch, 2TB | £2,699 Get the deal (with nano glass) at Amazon | £2,599 | £2,299 | £2,599 |
If you’re flexible about where and when you buy, there are several ways to reduce the cost of a new iPad.
Buy a refurbished iPad: Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store is one of the best places to save money. Refurbished iPads undergo Apple’s full testing process, receive a new battery and outer shell where required, include the same one-year warranty as a new device, and are eligible for AppleCare+. Prices are typically around 15% lower than buying new, with savings of up to $450 on some iPad Pro models.
Use Apple’s Education Store: Students, teachers, and education staff can save 5–15% through Apple’s Education Store all year round. During Apple’s annual Back to School promotion, qualifying purchases also include a free gift, such as AirPods or an Apple Pencil. In the U.S., eligibility now needs to be verified through UNiDAYS before accessing Education Store pricing. . Read: How to shop at Apple’s Education Store.
Trade in your old iPad: Apple’s Trade In programme can significantly reduce the cost of a new iPad. For the highest trade-in value, upgrade before Apple announces a replacement model, as trade-in prices typically fall once new devices are released.
Shop during major sales: The biggest discounts usually come from retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart during Prime Day and Black Friday. Apple itself rarely discounts iPads, instead offering gift cards during promotions such as Black Friday and Back to School. While those offers can be worthwhile, third-party retailers almost always provide larger cash discounts.
Apple
Buying a refurbished iPad is one of the best ways to save money. You can often afford a model with more storage or even an iPad Pro for the price of a new entry-level iPad.
The key is to buy refurbished, not simply used. A properly refurbished iPad has been tested, repaired if necessary, and checked to ensure it works like new. A used iPad sold privately is typically sold “as is”, with no warranty, and could even be locked to the previous owner’s Apple ID.
The safest option is Apple’s Certified Refurbished Store. Every refurbished iPad is fully tested, fitted with a new battery and outer shell where required, cleaned, and repackaged with all original accessories. You also receive:
If you’re buying from a third-party retailer, pay attention to a few key details:
Apple Certified Refurbished: The safest choice, with the same warranty and support as a new iPad.
Reputable refurbishers: Retailers such as Back Market, Best Buy, and Amazon Renewed often offer deeper discounts, but always check the condition grading and warranty before buying.
If you buy from a trusted retailer and choose a model that still has years of software support ahead of it, a refurbished iPad can offer excellent value while saving you a significant amount of money.
Whether it’s time to replace your iPad depends on four things: software support, performance, battery life, and whether you’re missing features you actually want.
The most important reason to upgrade is when your iPad stops receiving software and security updates. Apple typically provides major iPadOS updates for around six to eight years, with security updates often continuing for a while afterwards. See: How long does Apple support iPads?
As long as your iPad still receives security updates, it’s generally safe to keep using. Once those updates end, however, you’ll eventually lose app compatibility and expose yourself to increasing security risks.
As of 2026, iPads with an A14 chip or newer, or any M-series iPad, support iPadOS 27. Older models, including the 2018 iPad Pro and 2019 iPad Air, have reached the end of major software support.
Performance and battery life naturally decline with age. If apps take a long time to open, crash frequently, or the interface feels sluggish even after restarting, your iPad may be struggling to keep up.
Aside from Apple (View the iPad in the Apple Store and View the iPad in the Apple Store U.K). There are a number of third-party reseller that frequently discount the different iPad models.
Best for Lowest Prices
Best for U.K. Buyers
Similarly, if the battery no longer lasts through a typical day or the iPad shuts down unexpectedly, it may be time to replace the device – or at least the battery.
One of the biggest reasons to upgrade today is Apple Intelligence. Apple’s AI features require an M-series chip or an A17 Pro processor.
If you own the current entry-level iPad (A16) or an older model, you won’t be able to use features such as Writing Tools, Priority Notifications, or Clean Up in Photos.
If your iPad still runs the latest version of iPadOS, performs well, and meets your needs, there’s little reason to replace it.
Owners of the M1 iPad Air or newer, as well as recent iPad Pro models, are unlikely to notice a dramatic difference in everyday tasks by upgrading to the latest generation. Unless you need a specific new feature or substantially more performance, you’re usually better off keeping your current iPad for another year or two.
| User Type | Best iPad | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Budget buyers & casual users | iPad (A16) | The most affordable entry point at $449 (new MSRP). Great for web browsing, email, streaming, and light tasks. However, it’s the only current iPad that does not support Apple Intelligence. |
| Students (most) | iPad Air (M4) | This is (as of July 2026) the top pick for students because it strikes “an excellent balance between performance, portability, and price” and supports Apple Intelligence. When Apple introduces the new iPad this may change. |
| Students (budget) | iPad (A16) | A solid option for core tasks like note-taking and research, especially if you find it on sale below $300. |
| Students (art & design) | iPad Pro (M5) | Recommended for creative majors needing the OLED display, Apple Pencil Pro support, and maximum performance for demanding apps. |
| Commuters & travelers | iPad mini (A17 Pro) | The lightest iPad at just 293g. Its compact 8.3-inch screen is perfect for reading, note-taking, and slipping into a bag or large pocket. |
| Most people (all-rounder) | iPad Air (M4) | This is the best choice for the average user. It offers M4-level performance, a beautiful design, and a 13-inch option for those who want a large screen without paying Pro prices. When Apple introduces the new iPad this may change. |
| Professionals & creatives | iPad Pro (M5) | The ultimate iPad with an M5 chip, Thunderbolt speeds up to 40Gbps, and a stunning display. If you’re a creative professional, the Pro is the iPad to get. |
| Kids (under 10) | iPad (A16) or iPad mini | The standard iPad is the best value for younger children. The iPad mini’s smaller size might be easier for small hands to hold. |
| Teens & tweens | iPad Air (M4) | Offers more power for schoolwork and creative projects without the premium cost of the Pro. When Apple introduces the new iPad this recommendation may change. |
| Seniors | iPad mini (A17 Pro) | Its light weight makes it “easier to hold for extended periods”. The screen size of the standard iPad might suit those who require bigger text though. |
| Gamers | iPad Pro (M5) | The Pro’s 120Hz ProMotion display and M5 chip deliver the best gaming experience. |
Best U.S. deals:
Best U.K. deals:
Whether you’re buying your first iPad, upgrading to a newer model, shopping for work, or looking for a gift, you’ll no doubt want to find the best deal.
Apple raised iPad prices in June 2026, making meaningful discounts harder to find than ever. That’s where we come in. At Macworld, we track iPad prices, comparing retailer offers with Apple’s current prices, previous pricing, and the lowest prices we’ve seen, so we can identify the iPad deals that are genuinely worth buying.
Apple rarely discounts iPads directly, apart from education pricing and its Certified Refurbished Store. However, retailers in the U.S., U.K., and elsewhere regularly offer savings throughout the year, with the biggest discounts often appearing during events such as Amazon Prime Day and Black Friday.
Our frequently updated deals tracker covers every current iPad, including the iPad mini, iPad Air, iPad Pro, and standard iPad. We monitor price changes and stock levels to help you spot genuine bargains before they disappear. Alongside the latest deals, you’ll also find buying advice explaining the differences between current and older models, potential pitfalls of buying previous-generation iPads, and whether today’s discounts are good enough or if you’re better off waiting. We also have a guide to the best Apple deals right now.
These are the best deals we are seeing right now.
| iPad | Deal | New MSRP | Old MSRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A16, 128GB | $427.99 Get the deal at Amazon $21 off | $449 | $349 | $271.29 |
| A16, 256GB | $522 Get the deal at Amazon $27 off | $549 | $449 | $349.72 |
| A16, 512GB | $712 Get the deal at Amazon $37 off | $749 | $649 | $499 |
| iPad mini | Deal | New MSRP | Old MSRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A17 Pro, 128GB | $574 Get the deal at Amazon $25 off | $599 | $499 | $349 |
| A17 Pro, 256GB | $664 Get the deal at Amazon $35 off | $699 | $599 | $479 |
| A17 Pro, 512GB | $871 Get the deal at Amazon $28 off | $899 | $799 | $679 |
| iPad Air | Deal | New MSRP | Old MSRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M4, 11-inch, 128GB | $700.77 Get the deal at Amazon $48 off | $749 | $599 | $519.99 |
| M4, 11-inch, 256GB | $829.99 Get the deal at Amazon $19 off | $849 | $699 | $609.99 |
| M4, 11-inch, 512GB | $1,019 Get the deal at Amazon $30 off | $1,049 | $899 | $789 |
| M4, 11-inch, 1TB | $1,349 at Amazon | $1,349 | $1,099 | $1,016.50 |
| M4, 13-inch, 128GB | $919.99 Get the deal at Amazon $29 off | $949 | $799 | $699.99 |
| M4, 13-inch, 256GB | $1,019.99 Get the deal at Amazon $29 off | $1,049 | $899 | $699.99 |
| M4, 13-inch, 512GB | $1,049 Get the deal at Amazon $200 off | $1,249 | $1,099 | $999 |
| M4, 13-inch, 1TB | $1,477 Get the deal at Amazon $72 off | $1,549 | $1,299 | $1,199 |
| iPad Pro | iPad Pro | New MSRP | Old MSRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M5, 11-inch, 256GB | $1,139 Get the deal at Amazon $60 off | $1,199 | $999 | $799.91 |
| M5, 11-inch, 512GB | $1,329 Get the deal at Amazon $70 off | $1,399 | $1,199 | $999.99 |
| M5, 11-inch, 1TB | $1,709 Get the deal at Amazon $90 off | $1,799 | $1,599 | $1,399.99 |
| M5, 11-inch, 2TB | $2,181 Get the deal at Amazon $118 | $2,299 | $1,999 | $1,799 |
| M5, 13-inch, 256GB | $1,424 Get the deal at Amazon $75 off | $1,499 | $1,299 | $1,149 |
| M5, 13-inch, 512GB | $1,499 Get the deal at Amazon $200 off | $1,699 | $1,499 | $1,341 |
| M5, 13-inch, 1TB | $2,011 Get the deal at Amazon $88 off | $2,099 | $1,899 | $1,723 |
| M5, 13-inch, 2TB | $2,449 Get the deal at Amazon $150 off | $2,599 | $2,299 | $2,083.12 |
| iPad | Deal | New RRP | Old RRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A16, 128GB | £409 Get the deal at Amazon | £429 | £329 | £299 |
| A16, 256GB | £525.17 Get the deal at Amazon | £529 | £449 | £399 |
| A16, 512GB | £723.71 Get the deal at Amazon | £729 | £649 | £579 |
| iPad mini | Deal | New RRP | Old RRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A17 Pro, 128GB | £594.66 Get the deal at Amazon | £599 | £499 | £399 |
| A17 Pro, 256GB | £694 Get the deal at Amazon | £699 | £599 | £519 |
| A17 Pro, 512GB | Out of stock | £899 | £799 | £739.97 |
| iPad Air | Deal | New RRP | Old RRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M4, 11-inch, 128GB | £743.57 Get the deal at Amazon | £749 | £599 | £578.99 |
| M4, 11-inch, 256GB | £842.83 Get the deal at Amazon | £849 | £699 | £678.96 |
| M4, 11-inch, 512GB | £1,049 at Amazon | £1,049 | £899 | ££869.95 |
| M4, 11-inch, 1TB | £1,349 at Amazon | £1,349 | £1,099 | |
| M4, 13-inch, 128GB | £939 Get the deal at Amazon | £949 | £799 | £768.99 |
| M4, 13-inch, 256GB | £1,041.41 Get the deal at Amazon | £1,049 | £899 | £867.17 |
| M4, 13-inch, 512GB | £1,239.94 Get the deal at Amazon | £1,249 | £1,099 | £1,060.09 |
| M4, 13-inch, 1TB | £1,549 at Amazon | £1,549 | £1,299 | £1,253 |
| iPad Pro | Deal | New RRP | Old RRP | Lowest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M5, 11-inch, 256GB | £1,163.63 Get the deal at Amazon £35 off | £1,199 | £999 | £929 |
| M5, 11-inch, 512GB | Out of stock | £1,399 | £1,199 | £1,099 |
| M5, 11-inch, 1TB | £1,799 at Amazon | £1,799 | £1,599 | |
| M5, 11-inch, 2TB | Out of stock | £2,299 | £1,999 | |
| M5, 13-inch, 256GB | £1,496.62 Get the deal at Amazon | £1,499 | £1,299 | £1,169.10 |
| M5, 13-inch, 512GB | £1,699 at Amazon | £1,699 | £1,499 | £1,349 |
| M5, 13-inch, 1TB | £2,089 at Amazon | £2,099 | £1,899 | £1,769 |
| M5, 13-inch, 2TB | £2,699 Get the deal (with nano glass) at Amazon | £2,599 | £2,299 | £2,599 |
Britta O’Boyle
We identify the best iPad deals by combining our expert knowledge of Apple’s product lineup (which we have throughly review, and use daily) with specialized tools that monitor prices across a wide range of retailers. By tracking discounts over time, we understand what truly great deals look like and can quickly spot offers that deliver exceptional value.
In assessing deals, we look beyond the price tag to consider overall value. For example, while the M5 iPad Pro is a premium device, a substantial discount on a slightly older model may provide better value for many users. Likewise, we may highlight a strong deal on a basic iPad, pointing out that it can handle most everyday tasks for a fraction of the cost of a Pro model.
Because we understand Apple’s current iPad lineup, the features of previous generations, and what’s expected from future models, we’re well equipped to advise you on which iPad to buy and the best price to pay for it, especially in the wake of Apple’s price hikes.
Our process for identifying the top deals involves several key steps:
Prices are unlikely to come down significantly until Prime Day in October or Black Friday in November, but that’s not the only reason to wait. We also recommend reading the advice below to understand whether Apple is likely to update the iPad you’re considering. This can help you avoid purchasing an iPad shortly before a new model is released – a situation that often leads to regret, not only because a better version arrives, but also because retailers typically discount older models once an update occurs. However, if you’re hoping to get a deal on one of the newer models, be prepared to wait.
With that in mind, half of Apple’s iPad product line is due a refresh, with rumors indicating that a new iPad and iPad mini are coming before the end of 2026.
Brady Snyder / Foundry
Here’s a breakdown of the current iPad models to help you decide if now is the right time for you to buy:
iPad (A16): This is the cheapest iPad you can buy new from Apple, starting at $449/£429 (up from $349/£329) for the 128GB model. It was updated in March 2025, at which point Apple doubled the storage at the entry level without reducing the price (at that time), making it even better value for money – obviously that’s changed now that Apple’s pushed prices up by $100. Before choosing this iPad., there are important factors to consider. While the A16 chip delivers solid performance for daily activities, such as web browsing, streaming, light gaming, it doesn’t support Apple Intelligence (the suite of AI-powered features available on other current Apple products), plus the screen isn’t as high quality as the other iPads. If you want to ensure that your iPad is future-proofed we’d recommend spending a little more to get an alternative iPad, or waiting – a successor is anticipated in late 2026.
iPad mini (A17 Pro): The current model was released in October 2024 and was a significant upgrade, featuring Apple’s A17 Pro chip. This processor is powerful enough to support Apple Intelligence features, future-proofing the device for upcoming software innovations. The base model now starts with 128GB of storage, a welcome increase from the 64GB offered in previous generations. While the current iPad mini is a solid buy, there are rumors about a future model. Internal code leaks suggest a potential future update to an A19 Pro chip, which would offer a performance boost. We expect an update until later in 2026, but still recommend buying the current model at a good price.
iPad Air (M4): The current models, which feature the powerful M4 chip, were released in March 2026. We think the M4 iPad Air is the best choice for most people, striking a perfect balance between performance and price. It offers superb processing power, a premium lightweight design, and great battery life, making it a versatile device for everything from streaming and gaming to more demanding work. If you need a new iPad now we recommend the iPad Air as a great buy – if you can find it at a good price.
iPad Pro (M5): Now is an excellent time to buy a new iPad Pro; the current models with the M5 chip arrived in October 2025 and it is not expected to be updated again until 2027. The iPad Pro offers the most up-to-date technology on the ultimate iPad. Indeed, the M5 iPad Pro is considered the best tablet on the market, featuring a stunning Tandem OLED display, outstanding performance, and a super slim, lightweight design.
Release dates and expected refreshes aside, if you are wondering if there is a good time to shop for deals on a new iPad that’s a little more straightforward. The best time of year to get a deal is when the big sales happen, such as Black Friday in November or Amazon Prime Day sales in June or July and October. Some years there is also a Spring Big Deals event on Amazon. Those are when we see the biggest discounts, but if you can’t wait for one of those sales, don’t despair: we see price drops all year round and when we see a good deal we record it here.
The deals rarely come from Apple itself. While Apple will sometimes offer vouchers as an incentive to buy a new iPad (that’s Apple’s usual Black Friday giveaway), the company never discounts prices. Apple does sell refurbished iPads at a lower price though, so that might be something to consider.
If you are a student you can take advantage of Apple’s education discounts and save a little money on the full price of iPads (and Macs). And in the summer months Apple usually gives away Apple Pencils or AirPods with the sale of certain iPads (and Macs) to students in it’s Higher Education Sale.
Apple
The deals you will see above are generally from Apple resellers rather than Apple itself, which very rarely drops the prices. Apple does, however, sell reconditioned iPads in its Certified Refurbished store. So you might be able to grab a bargain.
The iPads in Apple’s refurbished store may be ex-display stock, or they may have been returned to Apple due to a fault, but they are fully reconditioned now and come with a full year’s warranty. It’s not like buying secondhand.
The U.S. refurbished store has a selection that includes:
Compared to the original price, you can save as much as $320 on a 12.9-inch iPad Pro.
In the U.K. you’ll find a similar selection of iPads available from Apple’s refurbished store. You’ll find the following:
Top refurbished deal: 11-inch, iPad Air M2, 256GB for £549, £100 off.
Another place to look is BackMarket US and BackMarket UK, which sells refurbished Macs and other Apple products. Amazon also has a certified refurbished store for Apple products, but we would advise against buying any products that are older than five years. Most of the products we see on the Amazon refurbished store are unfortunately very old.
We have an article that explains what you need to know about buying a refurbished iPad. It includes the best refurbished iPad resellers and lots of advice about how to find the perfect refurbished iPad.
OUR NUMBER ONE TIP: If you are buying an old refurbished iPad our number one recommendation is that you don’t buy one with less than 64GB storage – ideally, get 128GB or more.
There is a large refurbished market for the iPad. We’d recommend taking a look at these refurbished resellers for iPad offers:
U.S. refurbished resellers
U.K. refurbished resellers
We also have a guide to buying a refurbished iPhone.
When you are searching for a deal keep the following points in mind and you should be happy with your purchase.
Apple
The answer to this question really depends on what you need your iPad for.
Consider the standard iPad. The cheapest iPad is the 128GB A16 iPad, which costs from $349 / £329. It’s a good option if you are likely your iPad is destined for general use, such as emails, one taking, web browsing, social networks, watching movies and reading books. It’s got a great sized screen and is light enough to pop in a bag and not feel weighed down.
Britta O’Boyle
If you are just planning to edit documents and spreadsheets, any iPad can be a good supplement for a computer. If you need something with a little more power then the iPad Air or iPad Pro might be a better option. Apple and other companies sell iPad cases that come with built in keyboards, so you can turn your iPad into a laptop. Read our round up of the best iPad keyboards.
Foundry
The iPad mini is a great choice if you value portability and power. Its compact 8.3-inch screen and is the lightest iPad you can get (weighing around 0.65 pound or 293g). This makes it perfect for travelers, commuters, or anyone who values a device that can easily fit in a bag or even a large pocket.
If you need a bigger screen the iPad Air is a good choice. The 11-inch iPad Air weighs just over 1 pound or 462g and is 6.1mm thick, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods and easy to take anywhere. What may surprise you is that the newest 11-inch iPad Pro is actually lighter and thinner than the 11-inch Air, at 444g and 5.3mm thick.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
If you are wanting to play the latest games on your iPad then the iPad Pro may be the one to choose. Other iPads will be able to play casual games, but to be sure of getting the power and graphics prowess necessary to play the latest games. The iPad Pro also offers a better screen with the 120Hz refresh rates that serious gamers will want.
However, even the A17 Pro chip in the iPad mini ensures that the latest games and apps run smoothly, making it a powerful portable console. The Liquid Retina display is sharp and vibrant, with the highest pixel density of any current iPad.
The iPad is a great device for artists. Any iPad, accompanied with an Apple Pencil or other iPad stylus, will allow you to draw using an app such as Adobe’s Sketchpad (now called Adobe Fresco) which can be used for free, but has in-app purchases.
If you are really serious about your art you may prefer an iPad Pro though, and you may even consider the nano-texture display option for less glare and reflections.
Petter Ahrnstedt
For Kids: The iPad mini is great option for Kids because its small, lightweight frame is easy for small hands to hold, and its power makes it a capable device for entertainment and learning.
For Seniors: The iPad mini’s light weight makes it easier to hold for extended periods.
For Students and Note-Takers: The iPad mini screen size is perfect for reading and taking notes, especially when paired with an Apple Pencil Pro or Apple Pencil (USB-C).
For more information read our full guides to the best iPad for students, best iPad for kids and best iPad for the elderly.
If you still aren’t sure read our guide that examines which iPad is best for you in more detail.
You don’t have to buy directly from Apple. There are resellers that will sell you and iPad, and the best thing is that they frequently offer discounts, where Apple never does.
We recommend the stores below.
U.S. retailers
U.K. retailers
Apple has a number of Apple Premium Resellers who stock iPads in the U.K., and also offer other services, try the following:
If you are looking to buy a cellular iPad, so you can always get on the internet, you may want to buy the iPad on contract from one of these networks:
U.S. network carriers
U.K. network carriers
Your Apple gear wasn’t cheap. And if you drop your iPhone, your iPad stops turning on, or you smack your Apple Watch into something and shatter it, getting it repaired probably won’t be cheap either.
Apple includes a one-year limited warranty with all hardware so if there’s a manufacturing defect, you’ll be covered. To also protect against accidental damage, get priority tech support, and in many cases replace your product if it is lost or stolen, you can opt to purchase AppleCare+. Here’s what it is, what it covers, and what you can expect to pay.
Is AppleCare+ worth it? Only you can decide for your own situation, but this should be everything you need to know to make a smart choice.
Updated July 16 ,2026: Apple has slightly increased the cost of AppleCare+ on iPads and Macs, by $0.50 per month or $5.00 per year.
If you’ve never even heard of AppleCare, start here! Otherwise, feel free to skip to the sections that cover your particular devices.
AppleCare is Apple’s term for its warranty programs. Every Apple device comes with a certain stretch of AppleCare warranty service and phone/chat support for free, typically one year for the warranty and 90 days of phone support. You can pay to extend that protection for longer, get discounted repairs on accidental damage, and in some cases replace your device if it is lost or stolen. That’s called AppleCare+.
No. If you already know you want it, buying AppleCare+ with the product is a good idea, just so you don’t forget. When you’re shopping at the Apple store and Apple.com, you’ll be offered AppleCare+ at checkout, and authorized Apple resellers can offer AppleCare+ too.
But you have some time to decide. Generally you get 60 days from the purchase date to buy AppleCare+ (only 30 days if you’re in Japan), and Apple has a page where you can check your exact device’s eligibility.
The latest iPhones and iPads will show you an AppleCare+ signup prompt right there near the top of Settings, if you’re still eligible. You can tap on it to see how many days remain, and purchase AppleCare+ (with or without Loss and Theft protection) right on your device.
If your new iPhone or iPad is eligible for AppleCare+, you’ll see a signup prompt near the top of the Settings app.
Still, to buy AppleCare+ after the fact you generally have to run a diagnostic test on the device in question, so Apple knows it’s in good working order. And no matter when you buy your AppleCare+ plan, the coverage starts from the day you bought your device. So you don’t get an “extra” two months of coverage if you wait two months to buy the plan.
If you want to buy an AppleCare+ plan after the 60-day period has ended, you can bring your device into an Apple Store for an inspection up to a year after purchase. If the technician allows it, you’ll be able to sign up in person.
The easiest way is online. Apple’s site has a page to Check Your Service and Support Coverage. Enter your device’s serial number and it’ll tell you if you can still buy AppleCare+ and walk you through the process of purchasing and registering your plan.
Keep in mind that buying an AppleCare+ plan after the fact often means you have to complete a diagnostic test on the device. After all, Apple has to make sure you’re not trying to buy coverage on a device that’s already broken. So do it right away, just in case.
You can! Apple offers a range of refurbished items on its website, and they’re all backed by the same one-year warranty as new products. Plus, you can buy AppleCare+ for a refurbished item just as you can with a new one.
Head to Apple’s Check Your Service and Support Coverage page and enter your device’s serial number. You’ll find out how much time you have left on your AppleCare plan, and if you can still buy AppleCare+ for this device.
No, you can still use AppleCare+ if you can’t make it to the Apple store. You have several options, actually.
AppleCare+ used to be a single purchase that extended warranty services for a set span of time (usually two years). It has since changed to an ongoing discounted repair and replacement service, which you can pay for monthly or yearly. You are covered for as long as you continue to pay for AppleCare+.
Apple offers an Express Replacement Service for the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. When you use Express Replacement, Apple sends you a new device right away, and you don’t have to mail in your broken device until you receive it. Conditions apply, but ask Apple about it when you contact them and they can let you know if you qualify.
Most AppleCare+ plans, which are paid montly or annually, are linked to your Apple Account and do not transfer with the product. Older AppleCare+ plans, which were one-time fees for a set period of coverage, can be transfered to the new owner. See this support document for more information.
There used to be a second tier of AppleCare+ that included coverage for loss or theft, but Apple now only offers this tier. So yes, it covers loss and theft (on applicable products) and there is no longer an option to get AppleCare+ without that.
No, Apple provides global coverage for most Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, iPod, Apple TV, and Apple displays). Service options do vary between countries, but any AppleCare service is always performed by authorized techs with genuine Apple parts.
Obviously, you should always read the full agreement before you purchase any warranty or insurance.
Yes, you can. If it’s within 30 days of purchasing the plan, you’ll get a full refund minus any service you received. Outside of 30 days, you’ll get a prorated refund, minus any service, minus a fee of $25 or 10 percent of the prorated refund, whichever is less. Call Apple at 1–800-MY-APPLE to ask how.
Yes, though some devices have a limit as to how many times you can extend coverage. Apple has a 45-day window where a policy can be extended 24 or 36 months, paid monthly or annually. In China, the window is 30 days.
The iPhone is covered in glass, easy to drop, and goes everywhere with you. No wonder iPhones break so frequently! Here’s the skinny on buying some extra protection.
It varies by the device. Here’s the price for both monthly and annual coverage.
| iPhone 17e | $9.99 | $99.99 |
| iPhone 17, iPhone 16 | $11.99 | $119.99 |
| iPhone 16 Plus | $12.99 | $129.99 |
| iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max | $13.99 | $139.99 |
All AppleCare+ plans for iPhone include two years of coverage and tech support.
It’s included, but it’s not free. The cost of the two-year AppleCare+ plan is included among the 24 loan payments you agree to pay. (But at least you aren’t charged interest.)
If you upgrade your phone after a year, your two-year loan starts over again, but you still get the second year of AppleCare+ on the new phone. Read the iPhone Upgrade Program terms for more detail. The iPhone Upgrade Program is a loan, so again, be sure to read all the fine print before you sign up.
For the iPhone, AppleCare+ extends your warranty coverage from one year to two, and extends phone and chat support from 90 days to the full two years as well.
You also get up to two incidents of accidental damage coverage per year for a relatively low service fee. If you’ve only damaged the screen, a screen replacement is only $29/£25. But if the iPhone has other damage, the fee is $99/£79. iPhones are eligible for the Express Replacement Service, letting you request a replacement device in the mail before you send your original damaged device in for repair.
So let’s say you drop your iPhone on the corner, which breaks the screen but also dents the enclosure enough that Apple can’t fix just the screen—that’s a $99/£79 repair. If the screen shatters but the rest of the phone is relatively unscathed, $29/£25.
The warranty against defects covers the phone as well as the battery and the included headphones and accessories. Accidental damage can include almost anything, such as water damage, drops, running the thing over, your kid pours paint into the Lightning port—as long as you only have two incidents (or less) in the two-year coverage period.
The plan also covers two incidents of theft or loss per year.
You might also want to check your homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies to see if they cover stolen electronics. Some cell phone service providers’ own insurance plans cover loss and theft, but it’s relatively rare.
If you’re going to buy AppleCare+ on anything, it’s probably going to be your iPhone. But it’s not always a slam dunk. Depending on the age of your iPhone and how expensive some future repair might be, you may end up spending more for AppleCare+ and a repair than just a straight repair cost.
Really it depends on how careful you are with your iPhone. Do you use a case? Avoid action sports? Rarely drop your phone? Or are you a total klutz who’s broken every phone you’ve ever owned? Be honest with yourself and proceed accordingly.
An Apple Watch is another prime candidate for AppleCare+, if for no other reason than because it’s on the outside of your wrist where it can constantly bump and scrape on things.
Whether you agree that an iPad can replace a laptop, its AppleCare+ plan certainly is cheaper than AppleCare+ for a Mac—and iPads are eligible for Apple’s speedy Express Replacement Service too.
Here are all the AppleCare+ plans for iPad.
Apple recently raised the price of AppleCare+ for iPad by $0.50 per month or $5.00 per year.
| Pad, iPad mini | $5.49 | $54.99 |
| iPad Air 11-inch (M4) | $6.49 | $64.99 |
| iPad Air 13-inch (M4) | $7.49 | $74.99 |
| iPad Pro 11-inch (M5) | $10.49 | $104.99 |
| iPad Pro 13-inch (M5) | $11.49 | $114.99 |
You are covered for unlimited damage from accidents like drops or spills.
You also get two incidents of accidental damage coverage per year, with a service fee of $49/£39 for most damage, plus tax. AppleCare+ covers the iPad as well as its battery and included accessories like the power brick. You are covered for up to two incidents of loss or theft in 12 months.
This answer might hinge on how you use your iPad. My iPad, for example, almost never leaves my house—but I also share it with a 6-year-old who doesn’t always treat it like an expensive and fragile device. Still, our iPad is mostly for entertainment, so I’m living (dangerously?) without AppleCare+.
On the other hand, if I was a road warrior with an iPad Pro that I relied on every day to make my living, I’d be more likely to shell out the $129/£129 for AppleCare+.
Apple doesn’t sell its own Apple-branded displays anymore, and AppleCare+ for Macs might seem like a bargain if you’ve ever paid hundreds to get a laptop serviced—or overkill if you’re an iMac user who’s never run into a problem.
Here are the AppleCare+ plans for Mac.
For Macs, AppleCare+ does not include coverage for loss and theft. Apple recently increased the price for Mac coverage by $0.50 per month or $5.00 per year.
| Mac mini | $3.99 | $39.99 |
| Mac Studio | $6.49 | $64.99 |
| iMac | $6.49 | $64.99 |
| MacBook Neo | $5.49 | $54.99 |
| MacBook Air 13-inch | $7.49 | $74.99 |
| MacBook Air 15-inch | $8.49 | $84.99 |
| MacBook Pro 14-inch | $10.49 | $104.99 |
| MacBook Pro 16-inch | $15.49 | $154.99 |
| Mac Pro | $17.99 | $179.99 |
AppleCare+ for the Apple Studio Display costs $4.99/$49.99, and for the Studio Display XDR it costs $9.99/$99.99.
AppleCare+ for Macs covers unlimited accidental damage for a lower service fee than you would pay for an out-of-warranty repair. If you damage just the screen or Mac’s enclosure, it’s $49-99 and all other damage is $149-299, plus tax. You get unlimited battery replacements for no extra charge (Apple requires your battery hold less than 80% of its original charge before replacing it).
For Macs, your computer is covered, plus the battery, power adapter, and other included accessories.
It doesn’t cover loss or theft. Your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance might, depending on your policy.
For Macs, AppleCare+ makes more sense if you’re buying a laptop and you’re worried about the screen, or you just tend to be rough on your computers. Desktop Macs probably aren’t as important to cover, since the likelihood of, say, dropping one is a lot less. Still, Macs have a long life, so you may decide three years of (transferable) protection is worth the extra cost.
For Apple Watch, your AppleCare+ subscription now covers loss and theft—it didn’t originally do so.
Here are the AppleCare+ plans for Apple Watch.
| Apple Watch SE | $2.99 | $29.99 |
| Apple Watch Series 11 | $4.99 | $49.99 |
| Apple Watch Ultra 3 | $5.99 | $59.99 |
| Apple Watch Hermès | $5.99 | $59.99 |
| Apple Watch Hermès Ultra | $5.99 | $59.99 |
Fancier editions like the Hermes, Titanium, or Ceramic watches may have different AppleCare+ pricing, however.
You get unlimited repairs for accidental damage, and up to two instances of loss or theft in 12 months.
It’s pretty difficult to get an Apple Watch repaired anywhere but the Apple store, as we found out. The Apple Watch is designed to be tough, so most users hopefully shouldn’t have problems. But if you’re paranoid or accident-prone, or you just love the idea of Express Replacement Service so you never miss a step, AppleCare+ is there.
Your Apple TV is probably the last thing you’d buy an extended warranty for, but Apple is happy to sell you one!
Here are the AppleCare+ plans for Apple TV.
It’s only $29/£25, both for the regular Apple TV and the 4K edition. That gets you two years of warranty coverage and tech support.
The Apple TV itself, the Siri Remote, and even the Apple AirPort router you use with it, if you bought it within two years of the Apple TV. Tech support by phone or chat includes help with setup, connecting to Wi-Fi, iCloud, renting or buying from iTunes, AirPlay, and even connecting to third-party streaming services. You also get coverage for accidental damage (spills, drops, earthquakes, fires) or cosmetic damage. But since it just sits there that’s unlikely to be used. Each incident has a service fee of $15.
Loss and theft, including losing the remote. (But if the remote stops working, that’s covered.)
Nah. I mean, you could. But you probably don’t need to, because it’s a box that sits under your TV and doesn’t go anywhere.
According to a new report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the “biggest overhaul to the iPad mini in half a decade” is coming as soon as this October. The new version of Apple’s smallest tablet includes an upgrade to an OLED display from the current IPS LCD, which would bring the image quality in line with the iPhone and the iPad Pro.
The last time Apple updated the iPad mini was in 2024, when the only change was from an A15 Bionic to an A17 Bionic processor. Gurman’s report doesn’t offer details on chip upgrades and other specifications, but past reports said that Apple had an A19 Pro iPad mini in testing. Apple is expected to introduce the A20 Pro chip with the iPhone 18 Pro announcement in September, so an A20 Pro in the iPad mini is also a possibility.
Apple is also expected to release the iPhone Ultra, a folding phone, and reports have said that the Ultra is expected to be about 7.8 inches when unfolded. That would make it a little smaller than the 8.3-inch iPad mini. While the iPhone Ultra is expected to be much more expensive than the iPad mini, with a starting price of more than $2,000, its existence could bring more attention to the iPad mini, which currently starts at $599. Apple raised the price of the iPad mini last month, and the upgrade here could result in another price hike, but it will still be much more affordable than an iPhone Ultra.
Gurman also reported that Apple plans to update the other iPad models through the first half of 2027. The entry-level iPad “is slated for release as early as the first calendar quarter next year,” followed by updates to the iPad Air, iPad Pro, and Apple Pencil in the spring.
For those who need a premium small-screen tablet, the iPad mini is a popular choice. But should you buy one now, or should you wait to see what Apple has in store for the next model?
Most buyers should wait – the next model is expected to bring meaningful upgrades. However, Apple isn’t expected to update the iPad mini until late 2026, and that launch date could slip further due to chip demand and wider supply constraints.
Here’s what the latest rumors say about the release date, key upgrades, and whether it’s worth waiting.
Apple has not officially announced a specific launch date for a new iPad mini. However, industry analysis and leaks suggest that a refresh is likely to occur before the end of 2026. In October 2025, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that a new iPad mini featuring an OLED screen is among the devices Apple is expected to launch before the end of 2026. In July 2026, Gurman reported that the OLED iPad mini is scheduled for an October 2026 release.
Several factors could influence the timing of its release and cause delays, though, including:
Since it hasn’t been updated in over a year, the next iPad mini is expected to receive several silicon upgrades. The current model features an A17 Pro chip, 8GB of RAM, and Apple Intelligence support. Most rumors suggest Apple will upgrade the device to the A19 Pro.
In August 2025, MacRumors reported that Apple code inadvertently revealed an A19 Pro-powered iPad mini, although the publication noted that the chip could also have been intended for the iPhone Air. Additional evidence emerged in December 2025, when Macworld reported seeing internal Apple code indicating that the entry-level iPad would launch with an A19 chip. Because Apple has traditionally equipped the iPad mini with a more powerful processor than the standard iPad, this lends further support to the A19 Pro rumor.
An A19 Pro would represent a substantial upgrade over the current A17 Pro. Users could expect faster on-device AI processing, improved gaming performance, and quicker photo and video editing. The A18 Pro, which powers the MacBook Neo, is often compared to the M1 chip and can rival the M3 in some single-core workloads. An A19 Pro-powered iPad mini would push the device even closer to iPad Air-level performance.
There are also reports that Apple could use the A20 Pro in the iPad mini instead. The likely chip may depend on launch timing. If the new iPad mini arrives before the iPhone 18 Pro, which is expected to debut the A20 Pro, the A19 Pro remains the most likely option. However, if the launch slips into late 2026 or beyond, an A20 Pro-equipped iPad mini becomes increasingly plausible.
A less ambitious upgrade to the A18 Pro remains possible. While the performance gains would be smaller, the chip still offers meaningful improvements over the A17 Pro thanks to architectural enhancements and a more powerful GPU configuration. In benchmarks, it would outperform the current model, though the difference would be less dramatic than with an A19 Pro or A20 Pro.
The popularity of the MacBook Neo could also influence Apple’s chip strategy. Reports suggest demand for the Neo has been strong enough to create pressure on A18 Pro supply, which could affect the availability of chips for other products.
Alongside processor upgrades, Apple is expected to bring its latest wireless technologies to the iPad mini. With the iPhone 17 lineup, Apple introduced the N1 chip, which supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread. The company has already added the N1 to the M4 iPad Air and is expected to roll it out across the iPad lineup through 2026 and 2027, including the iPad mini. Cellular models are also expected to adopt Apple’s C1X modem.
The M4 iPad Pro’s OLED Display could make its way to the iPad mini next.
Mahmoud Itani / Foundry
The biggest display upgrade rumored for the next iPad mini is the adoption of OLED technology. Following Apple’s transition of the iPad Pro to OLED in 2024, multiple reports have suggested that the iPad mini will be the next iPad to make the switch. Ross Young of DSCC was first to claim, in a tweet in October 2024, that the next iPad mini would have a OLED.
The current iPad mini, released in October 2024, still uses a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display, but industry sources, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, indicate a move to OLED is increasingly likely.
The transition from LCD to OLED would represent one of the most significant upgrades in the iPad mini’s history. Unlike LCD panels, which rely on a backlight, OLED displays illuminate each pixel individually. This allows pixels to switch off completely when displaying black content, resulting in deeper blacks, higher contrast ratios, and improved HDR performance.
Key benefits of OLED include:
An OLED panel could also enable Apple to reduce bezel sizes, potentially increasing the display area slightly without significantly changing the tablet’s overall dimensions. Some reports suggest the screen could grow from 8.3 inches to around 8.5 inches as a result – more on that below.
While the iPad mini is unlikely to inherit premium display technologies such as ProMotion or the tandem OLED architecture used in the iPad Pro, the move to OLED would still deliver a noticeable improvement in visual quality, with richer blacks, better contrast, improved colour reproduction, and stronger HDR performance.
For users who prioritise display quality, an OLED iPad mini would address one of the most frequently cited limitations of the current model and bring the compact tablet much closer to the viewing experience offered by Apple’s premium devices.
Apple
The iPad mini has retained the same design since its major redesign in 2021, and the 2026 model is expected to keep that overall look. However, Apple could increase the display size slightly while maintaining the device’s current dimensions.
In December 2024, analysts at Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC) suggested in a supply chain analyst report that the next-generation iPad mini could feature an 8.5-inch display, up from the current model’s 8.3-inch panel. The reports indicated that the chassis size would remain unchanged, meaning Apple could achieve the larger screen through slimmer bezels rather than a larger body.
A larger display may also help the iPad mini maintain its place in Apple’s lineup as foldable devices arrive. Apple’s long-rumored foldable iPhone – often referred to as the iPhone Fold or iPhone Ultra – is expected to feature an inner display measuring between 7.6 and 7.8 inches with a 4:3 aspect ratio, putting it close to the iPad mini’s screen size. While still smaller than the iPad mini, such a device could appeal to some users who currently favour Apple’s smallest tablet.
Another rumor gaining traction is that the new iPad mini will be more water-resistant. That rumor comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, who in October 2025 claimed Apple was developing a next-generation iPad mini with a significantly more water-resistant chassis.
The design changes could include:
There’s also a strong possibility of new colour options. Apple currently offers the iPad mini in Blue, Purple, Starlight, and Space Gray, while the previous generation was available in Pink, Purple, Starlight, and Space Gray.
Apple is not expected to upgrade the cameras in the next iPad mini.
Foundry
Apple’s iPads currently feature a 12MP Center Stage front-facing camera and a 12MP wide rear camera, and there are no credible reports suggesting major camera system upgrades for the next iPad mini.
The most likely change concerns camera placement rather than camera hardware. Apple has moved the front-facing camera to the landscape edge on its latest iPad models, and the iPad mini could follow suit to improve the experience during video calls and FaceTime sessions when used with a keyboard or stand.
While the cameras themselves may remain unchanged, image quality could still benefit from improvements to the image signal processor and computational photography capabilities of a newer A-series chip.
The iPad mini has had the same $499 price tag since its 2021 redesign. In 2026 we could see a price increase as a result of the OLED display upgrade.
Component costs could also drive up the price. During Apple’s first quarter 2026 financial results announcement, CEO Tim Cook said that Apple is now “in a supply chase mode” due to industry-wide constraints. Thus, tariffs, the rising cost of RAM, and other increases in supply-chain costs could impact pricing for some higher-end storage options.
The price may remain the same though, with Apple wanting to keep the price of this niche product attractive.
Rumors about Apple’s 2027 iPads point to faster chips and potential display improvements across the range, from the iPad Air (updated in March 2026) to the Pro (last updated in October 2025). Yet for most buyers, the most important update may be coming to the most affordable model.
The entry-level iPad–Apple’s cheapest tablet and the one aimed at students and families–is reportedly set to receive a performance boost that will finally enable Apple Intelligence features in an update that could arrive in early 2027.
The current iPad was released in March 2025, and while it’s a perfectly good iPad for most people, it’s the only iPad that doesn’t support Apple Intelligence. Apple’s 2027 update should address that shortcoming.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new iPad.
| 2027 iPad predictions | 2025 iPad | |
|---|---|---|
| Launch date | Early 2027 | March 2025 |
| Processor | A18 (maybe A19) | A16 |
| RAM | 8GB | 6GB |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 6 | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Apple Intelligence | Yes | No |
| Design | Unchanged | Unchanged |
In a July 2026 report, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman said that Apple has scheduled the release of the entry-level iPad for “as early as the first calendar quarter next year.” Previously, Gurman reported that the new entry-level iPad is “on the roadmap for a release in the iOS 26.4 timeframe, which runs until May.” Apple released iOS 26.4 on March 24, and the iPad was not released.
Why the later ship date? It’s possible that Apple needs to ensure sufficient supply of whichever chip it chooses (A18, A19, or A20) and may also be waiting for its Apple Intelligence features to be fully ready. This includes ongoing work to improve next-generation Siri AI, which is part of the iPadOS 27 update that will be released in the fall.
A delay is more likely to be strategic than technical. Apple did not update the base iPad during its March 2026 launch event, despite releasing the M4 iPad Air. Holding back the entry-level iPad helps avoid cannibalising sales of more expensive models, and staggered releases like this are typical of Apple’s product strategy.
We recommend waiting for the 2027 iPad if you’re considering an upgrade. The next-generation iPad is expected to deliver a meaningful upgrade with a faster chip, more RAM, and support for Apple Intelligence, making it a much more future-proof choice.
The biggest upgrade coming to the 2027 iPad will be a new processor, but reports are divided on exactly which chip Apple will use.
Most evidence points to the A18 chip, which debuted in the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus in 2024. In March 2026, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that the new iPad is “ready to go” with an A18, making it the most likely candidate. The A18 would also enable Apple Intelligence, something the current A16-powered iPad cannot support.
However, there is still a possibility that Apple could opt for the A19 chip instead. As we reported in December 2025, a code-leak suggested that Apple had been testing new iPad models (codenamed J581 and J582) equipped with the same A19 chip expected in the iPhone 17 lineup.
For now, the balance of evidence leans toward the A18 as the more realistic choice. Reports of A18 Pro shortages (linked to the popularity of the MacBook Neo) are unlikely to affect supply of the standard A18 chip if Apple chooses to use that in the new iPad.
Apple is also expected to bring its new N1 connectivity chip to the iPad. First introduced with the iPhone 17 lineup, the N1 handles Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Thread connectivity. Its inclusion could upgrade the iPad to Wi-Fi 6E or even Wi-Fi 7, along with Bluetooth 6.x, up from the current Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3.
For cellular models, Apple will likely use its in-house C1 modem (or a variant of it), continuing its shift away from third-party suppliers while improving efficiency and integration.
Apple Intelligence introduces a range of AI-powered features designed to enhance creativity, productivity, and real-time communication, including:
These features require at least 8GB of RAM and a more powerful Neural Engine, which means Apple Intelligence is currently limited to M-series iPads (Air and Pro) and the A17 Pro iPad mini.
By contrast, the standard iPad with the A16 chip (released in March 2025) does not support Apple Intelligence. This is a notable limitation for long-term value, especially as future versions of iPadOS are expected to rely increasingly on AI-driven features.
While there are reports that the other iPads (mini, Air and Pro) could get new OLED panels with richer colors and deeper contrast in 2027, the base model is unlikely to evolve from its LCD panel.
We expect the upcoming iPad to have the same 11-inch Liquid Retina display 2360-by-1640 display with 500 nits of brightness and 60Hz refresh rate that it has had since 2022.
Apple currently offers the iPad in four colors.
Apple
The A19 iPad is also expected to have the same dimensions: 9.79 x 7.07 x 0.28 inches (248.6 x 179.5 x 7 millimeters) and weigh 1.05 pounds (477 grams).
We haven’t heard anything about new colors, but since Apple hasn’t changed the color palette (blue, pink, yellow, silver) since its original release, it’s possible we get a couple of new options.
Britta O’Boyle
The current iPad has two 12MP cameras, with the front ‘FaceTime’ camera having support for Center Stage. Apple isn’t expected to make changes to the camera for the upcoming iPad.
However, the company did change the Centre Stage camera with the arrival of the iPhone 17, and the new ‘square’ 18MP camera could be used on the front of the new iPad.
This front-facing camera has a larger, square sensor that supports automatic subject framing, orientation-agnostic capture, and advanced video features. On the iPad the 18MP camera could translate to improved video quality. However, current iPads already support smart framing during video calls so that aspect of the design may not be necessary.
After launching at $449 in 2022, Apple cut the price of the entry-level iPad to $349 in May 2024, and doubled the starting storage from 64GB to 128GB with the 11th-gen model. However, in June 2026, Apple raised the price back to the to $449 level due to supply-chain shortages. It’s possible that Apple could raise the price again.
At long last, Apple finally announced its Back to School promotion, and at first glance, it seems similar to previous years. You can get a gift card valued at up to $150 for buying a new MacBook Pro, or $100 for buying a MacBook Air, iPad Pro, or iPad Air. But when you dive into the details, you’ll see just how limiting this limited-time offer really is.
First off, it’s shorter than ever. While previous sales have lasted more than three months, this year’s offer ends on August 27, just six weeks from now. So not only did it start about a month later than usual, it’s ending more than a month sooner than recent years:
So students will need to make their decisions on what to buy sooner than ever, many of them before the school year begins. And they’ll also have fewer products to choose from. As expected, the MacBook Neo isn’t part of the promotion, but you also won’t find any desktop Macs. In previous years, Apple has offered iMacs and Mac minis alongside MacBooks, but not this year.
And then there’s the offer itself. After offering buyers a choice of accessories valued at up to $199, including AirPods, an Apple Pencil Pro, or a Magic Keyboard, Apple has returned to giving away gift cards this year: $150 with the purchase of a MacBook Pro, and $100 when you buy a MacBook Air, iPad Air, or iPad Pro. Not only is that less than in 2024, when buyers got $150 when purchasing a MacBook Air, but it also doesn’t take any of the recent price hikes into consideration.
That $100 gift card you’re getting on the iPad Air doesn’t even bring it down to the price it used to be before Apple raised prices by $150. MacBook Pros still cost $150 more than they did just last month, and if you’re planning to use that gift card on a HomePod or Apple TV, well, you might as well just throw your money in the trash.
Unfortunately, this promotion is still among the best “deals” you’re going to find on a MacBook or iPad. Prices on Amazon and other stores have all been adjusted to match Apple’s new prices, and we’ve yet to see much in the way of major Apple discounts yet (although we do recommend looking at the Apple Certified Refurbished Store where prices are more favorable). But remember you’re need to act fast—the clock runs out on the Back to School deal a lot earlier this year.
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