Apple is reportedly preparing a major refresh of its iPad lineup, with three new models expected to arrive in the first half of 2027. The upcoming launches could bring significant improvements across the company’s tablet portfolio, including OLED displays, faster processors and better thermal management. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the new additions are expected to include an updated iPad Air, a next-generation iPad Pro and the entry-level iPad 12.
The reported upgrades suggest that Apple is looking to bring some of its premium hardware features to more affordable tablets while continuing to push the performance boundaries of its flagship models.
In the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Gurman indicated that the next iPad Air could receive an OLED display, potentially making it a significant upgrade over the LCD technology used in existing models. The tablet is also expected to be powered by Apple’s M5 chipset, which should deliver improved performance and efficiency.
The next-generation iPad Pro, meanwhile, could receive an even more substantial hardware upgrade. Apple is reportedly considering a vapor chamber cooling system for the device, which would help dissipate heat more effectively during demanding tasks. This could be particularly useful for users involved in video editing, gaming and other resource-intensive workloads.
Under the hood, the upcoming iPad Pro could feature Apple’s M6 processor. If the reported specifications materialise, the combination of a next-generation chipset and improved thermal management could make the device a more capable machine for professional users.
Credits: Analytics Insight
Entry-Level iPad 12 Could Finally Get Apple Intelligence Support
While the iPad Air and iPad Pro are expected to receive display and performance upgrades, Apple’s entry-level tablet could also get some meaningful improvements.
Previous reports have suggested that the iPad 12 could be powered by the A19 chipset, potentially bringing Apple Intelligence support to the more affordable iPad lineup. This would be an important addition for consumers who want access to Apple’s AI-powered features without purchasing one of its premium tablets.
The device is also expected to feature Apple’s N1 networking chip, which could introduce Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. This would offer improved wireless performance and better connectivity in compatible networks.
Additionally, cellular variants of the entry-level iPad could incorporate Apple’s C1X modem. The company’s in-house modem technology is designed to deliver improved power efficiency and connectivity, potentially helping extend battery life during mobile network usage.
Although Apple has not officially confirmed these specifications, the combination of a newer processor, updated connectivity hardware and Apple Intelligence support could make the iPad 12 a considerably more attractive upgrade.
The New iPad Mini and Features Other iPads Could Borrow
The reported 2027 iPad launches will follow Apple’s recent introduction of an all-new iPad mini, which brought an OLED display and an A20 Pro chipset to the compact tablet lineup.
While Apple revealed most of the device’s specifications at launch, it did not disclose its battery capacity. However, a recent listing in the European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL) database reportedly revealed that the new iPad mini has a rated battery capacity of 4,900mAh.
Credits: News18
Interestingly, this is slightly smaller than the 5,078mAh battery found in the 2024 iPad mini. The difference could partly be attributed to the redesigned chassis, as the latest model is reportedly thinner and approximately 40g lighter than its predecessor.
Despite introducing an OLED panel, Apple has not included a 120Hz ProMotion display. Instead, the company has focused on improving other aspects of the tablet, particularly its audio system and durability.
The new iPad mini features specially designed woofers that push air through the display to produce stronger bass and greater volume. Custom tweeters positioned between the glass and aluminium enclosure further improve high-frequency audio reproduction. These additions also contribute to the tablet’s IP67 rating for water and dust resistance.
The redesigned audio system is intended to improve the experience during gaming, video playback and content creation, making the compact tablet more versatile.
With three new iPads reportedly scheduled for the first half of 2027, it remains to be seen whether Apple will bring similar audio engineering and water-resistant designs to its larger tablets. If these upgrades make their way across the lineup, 2027 could mark one of the more significant refreshes of Apple’s tablet portfolio. However, the company has yet to officially confirm the launch timeline, pricing or specifications of the upcoming devices.
