Apple is set to keep its momentum going in early 2026, with a series of new devices already announced. The lineup includes upgraded MacBook Air and Pro models powered by the M5 series chips, a more affordable MacBook Neo, an iPad Air with the M4 SoC, and the AirPods Max 2. Industry sources also suggest that a refreshed regular iPad is on the horizon.
Mark Gurman, writing in his “Power On” newsletter, notes that the next iPad will feature the A18 chip. The release is expected to coincide with the rollout of iOS 26.4, likely by the end of May. This upgrade will bring faster performance, thanks to the jump from the older A16 chip, and unlock Apple Intelligence capabilities previously unavailable on the A16.
Despite the new chip, the 2026 iPad will remain largely similar to last year’s model. Users can expect the same design, display, and core features, making this update more evolutionary than revolutionary. The improved performance, however, should make everyday tasks smoother and enhance overall device efficiency.
