Do you need a standard iPad for basic tasks, a more powerful iPad Air for work and entertainment, or an iPad Pro capable of replacing a laptop if fully utilized?

The good news is that Apple appears ready to make this decision easier, with a series of new iPads featuring meaningful improvements set to launch soon.

According to the latest information, anyone considering buying an iPad in the near future should probably wait a little longer.

The upcoming changes are not minor tweaks, but upgrades that could fundamentally alter the user experience across multiple segments.

Apple prepares to overhaul the iPad from the inside

According to journalist Mark Gurman of Bloomberg, one of the most reliable sources on Apple, the world’s largest tech company is preparing to introduce a new generation of iPads.

On the outside, these devices may not look significantly different from current models.

Inside, however, the story is entirely different.

Those hoping for a dramatic design overhaul may be disappointed, as Apple is reportedly not planning to change the iPad’s exterior this time.

Instead, the focus will be on processing power and display technology, two key factors that directly affect speed, multitasking and long-term user experience.

Reports suggest that iPad Air will be powered by the M4 chip, the standard iPad will be upgraded to the A18 chip, and iPad mini will receive an OLED display for the first time.

While these changes may sound simple, their impact could be substantial.

A turning point for the standard iPad and iPad mini

Among the rumored upgrades, the standard iPad adopting Apple’s A18 chip may be the most significant.

This is not just a performance boost, but a strategic move.

With A18, Apple officially brings “Apple Intelligence,” its new artificial intelligence platform, to the entry-level iPad segment.

This means even the most affordable iPad will be able to access next-generation AI features, instead of being left behind as in previous years.

For a long time, the standard iPad was often seen as “good enough, but nothing more,” suitable mainly for students or casual users.

With the A18 chip, the gap between the basic iPad and higher-end models could narrow considerably, at least in terms of processing power and long-term software support.

This refresh cycle could also help Apple address the long-running “identity crisis” of the iPad.

For years, the iPad has been stuck between smartphones and laptops: not as portable as a phone, yet not always powerful or flexible enough to fully replace a laptop for most users.

After a period of fluctuating sales, iPad shipments have rebounded recently, especially during the year-end shopping season.

The reason is simple: more people are realizing that the standard iPad already meets most needs for studying, light work and everyday entertainment.

By significantly upgrading hardware in its more affordable iPads, Apple is ensuring that its lowest-priced tablet remains viable in the long run, especially as AI features become a default expectation across its ecosystem.

The upgrade generating the most excitement, however, is the iPad mini’s move to an OLED display.

Long regarded as an ideal device for reading, web browsing and on-the-go use thanks to its compact size, iPad mini has always had a loyal following.

Adding an OLED screen, known for deep blacks, high contrast and better energy efficiency, would instantly elevate the experience and restore the iPad mini’s status as a truly premium device, rather than a scaled-down compromise.

Competition is heating up

While Apple prepares its next move, rivals are not standing still.

Samsung is generating buzz with its Galaxy Tab S11 lineup, deeply integrating “Galaxy AI” and emphasizing both productivity and high-end entertainment.

On the other hand, Google, despite reports of pausing plans for a next-generation Pixel Tablet, has extended software support for its current model, signaling ambitions to keep the device central to its smart home ecosystem.

In this context, Apple cannot afford to let its mainstream iPads fall behind.

Equipping them with more powerful chips and AI readiness is a necessary step to maintain its position.

If the leaks prove accurate, the upcoming iPad generation could mark the moment Apple “redefines” its tablet lineup.

For anyone considering a new iPad purchase, waiting a little longer may be the wisest choice.

Hai Phong