The entry-level iPad could get a significant upgrade, based on the latest reports from Mark Gurman and 9to5Mac. The current entry-level ninth-gen iPad still has a Lightning port and an original circular Touch ID home button, but the design might finally change to match the iPad Mini, iPad Air and iPad Pro models. That could mean flatter edges, a curved-corner display, USB-C charging and maybe a side-placed Touch ID button, almost like a budget version of the iPad Air.
The 12.9-inch 2021 iPad Pro was the only model to have a step-up Mini LED display, similar to the recent MacBook Pros, offering deeper blacks and more dynamic contrast. The 11-inch model still might not get Mini LED this year. Instead, the 11- and 12.9-inch iPads could be getting OLED displays in some future year’s upgrade.
Right now, you might be best holding off on buying an iPad if you can. But in the meantime, here are some guidelines for choosing between the current iPads.
A larger display for the iPad Pro may still be a few years away. A report from MacRumors suggests that two of Apple’s suppliers are preparing OLED displays in larger sizes (up to 15 inches) for future iPad models. However, these bigger Pro tablets aren’t expected to arrive until 2023 or 2024.
Entry-level iPad: New design, plus USB-C
The midrange iPad Air got an M1 chip back in the spring, but the entry-level iPad and the iPad Pro should be next on deck (along with new M2 MacBook Pros).
The iPad Pro, meanwhile, hasn’t seen a refresh since spring 2021, when it added 5G, an M1 chip and a Mini LED display for the larger 12.9-inch version. Signs point to October for a new model.
9to5Mac’s report also says the entry iPad could get optional 5G cellular, which would be an upgrade over LTE options on current models.