Why You Should Hold Off on Buying Apple's Budget iPad Right Now

If you're eyeing Apple's most affordable iPad (the one without Air or Pro branding), you might be tempted by its $349 price tag. However, before you pull the trigger, there are compelling reasons to wait. The current model, refreshed in March 2025, is over a year old and lacks support for Apple Intelligence—a suite of AI features that will become increasingly central to the iPad experience. With a newer model likely arriving later this year, buying now could mean missing out on key capabilities and future-proofing. Below, we answer the most pressing questions about this buying decision.

1. Why is now a bad time to buy Apple's baseline iPad?

The current baseline iPad was refreshed in March 2025, making it over a year old. That alone is a red flag, but the bigger issue is its A16 chip, which does not support Apple Intelligence. This means you'll miss out on features like Writing Tools, Image Playground, Clean Up, Live Translation, notification summaries, Smart Reply, Priority Messages in Mail, and Visual Intelligence. As Apple continues to roll out new AI capabilities, this iPad will feel increasingly outdated. Rumors point to a new model with an A18 chip (which supports Apple Intelligence) arriving later in 2026, making the wait worthwhile for a much more capable device.

Why You Should Hold Off on Buying Apple's Budget iPad Right Now — Source: www.macrumors.com

2. What exactly is Apple Intelligence, and why does it matter for an iPad?

Apple Intelligence is Apple's integrated suite of artificial intelligence tools designed to enhance productivity, creativity, and daily tasks. On an iPad, it enables features like Writing Tools for rewriting and summarizing text, Image Playground for generating custom images, Clean Up to remove objects from photos, and Visual Intelligence for real-time camera-based information. It also powers smarter Siri interactions, automated Shortcuts, and intelligent search in Mail and Photos. As iOS 27 approaches, these AI tools will become even more integral, turning the iPad into a more proactive assistant. Without them, your device quickly loses relevance.

3. What upgrades can we expect in the next low-cost iPad?

According to reliable leakers like Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the next entry-level iPad will feature an A18 chip, which supports Apple Intelligence. This means faster performance, more RAM, and full access to upcoming AI features. Rumors also suggest improvements in camera capabilities, possibly with Visual Intelligence integration, and a more refined design. The A18 chip will ensure the iPad stays relevant for years, handling future software updates and AI-driven tasks that the current A16 model cannot. In short, you'll get a device that doesn't just keep up—it leads.

4. When will the new low-cost iPad actually launch?

Apple did not release a new low-cost iPad alongside the iPhone 17e in early 2026, dashing hopes for a spring debut. Mark Gurman reported in March 2026 that an updated iPad is "ready to go" and "still coming this year." Given Apple's typical release cadence, the most likely window is September or October 2026. While that means waiting several months, the upgrade to Apple Intelligence support makes it a strategic choice. Patience here pays off with a device that will feel fresh well into 2028 and beyond.

5. Will the current iPad become obsolete soon if I buy it now?

Obsolete is a strong word, but the current iPad will quickly feel dated. With iOS 27 expected to introduce major AI features—like a smarter Siri chatbot, Visual Intelligence in the Camera app, AI photo editing tools, and more automated Shortcuts—the A16 chip will be left behind. Apple Intelligence support is a key differentiator; without it, you'll miss out on core functionality that future apps and updates will rely on. Within a year or two, you may find your iPad incapable of running new AI-powered tools, making it feel less like a modern tablet and more like a basic media player. Waiting for the A18 model ensures you stay ahead of the curve.

6. Are there any exceptions—should anyone buy the current iPad now?

If your budget is extremely tight and you need an iPad immediately for simple tasks like browsing, email, and video streaming, the current model still works. However, even for basic use, the lack of Apple Intelligence means you won't benefit from features that will become standard. For students, creators, or anyone who wants a tablet that grows with them, waiting is strongly advised. The extra months of patience will reward you with a device that's not only faster but also future-proof against Apple's AI ambitions. Unless you absolutely cannot wait, the prudent choice is to hold off.

7. How does the current iPad compare to the iPad Air or iPad Pro in terms of value?

The baseline iPad is the most affordable entry into the lineup, but its value proposition has weakened. The iPad Air and iPad Pro already support Apple Intelligence thanks to their M-series chips. They offer better performance, displays, and accessory compatibility. However, they come at a significantly higher price. The rumored next-gen iPad will close the gap by bringing AI features to the budget tier, making it the best value option for most users. If you're considering an Air or Pro mainly for Apple Intelligence, waiting for the new low-cost iPad could save you hundreds of dollars without sacrificing essential capabilities.

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