Following the announcement of the new iPad Air, Apple has made an exciting update regarding the base iPad: it now features double the initial storage and is powered by the A16 chip. This upgrade translates to a significant boost in performance, speed, and battery life; Apple claims users can see a 30% increase in performance compared to the previous iPad models running on the A13 Bionic chip.
However, this enhanced functionality comes with a notable downside. Despite the upgraded hardware, the iPad does not support Apple Intelligence. This may come as a surprise, considering Apple’s recent focus on artificial intelligence in its marketing efforts. The reason for this absence is straightforward: the A16 chip contains only 6GB of RAM, while Apple Intelligence requires a minimum of 8GB to operate.
This omission may feel like a lost opportunity for Apple, especially since the A16 boasts a Neural Engine that’s even more capable than the one found in the M2 chip. Apple could have tweaked this chip to accommodate the necessary RAM for the feature, but it seems that Apple Intelligence is not deemed essential for all users.
Another intriguing aspect is that the base iPad is still compatible only with the first-generation Apple Pencil and Apple Pencil (USB-C). While the second-generation Apple Pencil offers several desirable features, users will have to make do with the original version for now.
Despite these limitations, the enhanced speed makes the entry-level iPad more appealing than ever. Individuals looking to boost their productivity can expect a smoother, more responsive experience, while mobile gamers will benefit from the improved hardware that guarantees steady frame rates.
Importantly, the price of the iPad remains unchanged, making it an even better value proposition in comparison to Android tablets of a similar price point. Because of this attractive value, many educational institutions are acquiring entry-level iPads for their students. Apple’s history of targeting the educational sector dates back to the 2018 launch of the 9.7-inch iPad at a school event in Chicago.
Whether you’re a student or simply in search of a cost-effective tablet, the iPad has become an even more compelling choice than before.
