Apple’s next entry-level iPad likely won’t arrive until the second half of 2024, according to a new report on the company’s manufacturing plans. The forthcoming tablet will be the 11th generation of Apple’s basic iPad model.
Citing supply chain sources, Nikkei Asia reports that Apple’s partners in Vietnam are preparing to begin production of the new iPad in mid-2024. Specifically, engineering verification tests are scheduled for this February. Shifting production resources to facilities in Vietnam is apparently already underway.
The report unfortunately doesn’t reveal any details about the 2024 iPad’s tech specs or new features. We likely shouldn’t expect any major changes compared to the current 10th generation model launched in 2022. That iPad sports a 10.9-inch display, an A14 Bionic processor, 4GB of RAM, and a starting price of $449.
Apple doesn’t always update its various iPad models on the same schedule. For example, the 5th generation iPad Air debuted last March alongside the iPhone SE 3, while the last entry-level iPad update arrived in October 2022. So while the next version could launch alongside the rumored iPhone 16, a September or October release date seems more probable.
In summary, Apple fans can expect the next affordable iPad refresh to arrive in the back half of 2024. The tablet will bring incremental improvements over its predecessor but likely no drastic changes or redesigns. As we hear more leaks from Apple’s supply chain, a firmer launch date and details on pricing and specs should emerge as well. For now, consumers eyeing a basic iPad have the capable 10th generation model readily available today.
