As 2025 progresses, Apple fans worldwide are eagerly waiting for the next generation of iPads. Known for their seamless performance, sleek design, and powerful features, Apple’s iPads have consistently raised the bar in the tablet market. The upcoming iPads in 2025 are expected to take another leap forward in terms of design, performance, and user experience. In this article, we explore what we can expect from the next-generation iPad lineup—including the iPad Pro, iPad Air, and the entry-level iPad.
iPad Pro (2025): Redefining Tablet Power
Expected Launch
The next iPad Pro models are anticipated to arrive in late 2025, likely in October. These models are expected to build upon the major redesign and OLED display introduction seen in 2024.
M5 Chipset: A Game-Changer
The biggest buzz around the upcoming iPad Pro is its expected use of the M5 chip. With each iteration of Apple Silicon, the performance gap between tablets and traditional laptops has narrowed. The M5 chip is likely to offer significant improvements in CPU and GPU performance, making the new iPad Pro ideal for tasks like 4K video editing, 3D rendering, and professional-grade music production.
Display and Design
Following the 2024 update that introduced OLED displays, the 2025 models are expected to maintain that premium visual experience. OLED technology provides deeper blacks, higher contrast ratios, and improved color accuracy. The design may remain largely similar—ultra-thin bezels, lightweight form factor, and sleek aluminum or titanium finishes.
AI and Productivity Features
With the growing focus on AI integration, the upcoming iPad Pro may come equipped with enhanced machine learning capabilities. Features like AI-assisted writing, real-time transcription, smart image editing, and predictive UI elements could take multitasking to a new level. The tablet will also take full advantage of iPadOS 18’s productivity features such as improved Split View, Math Notes, and Smart Script handwriting refinement.
iPad Air (2025): The Middleweight Champion
M3 Chip Performance
The newly launched iPad Air models in 2025 now feature the powerful M3 chip. Offering up to 35% faster CPU and 40% faster GPU performance over the previous generation, this iPad Air blurs the line between consumer and pro tablets.
Larger Display Options
The iPad Air now comes in both 11-inch and 13-inch variants. The larger screen options provide more versatility for creative professionals, students, and casual users alike. The Liquid Retina display ensures vibrant colors and sharp details, making it ideal for both entertainment and work.
Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard Compatibility
Both sizes of the iPad Air are compatible with the latest Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard. With the new hover feature, customizable buttons, and improved pressure sensitivity, the Apple Pencil transforms the iPad Air into a digital sketchbook or note-taking powerhouse. The Magic Keyboard brings laptop-like functionality with a built-in trackpad, backlit keys, and USB-C charging.
AI Features
The iPad Air also supports Apple’s new wave of intelligence features. This includes background object removal from images, AI-generated emoji, voice summaries, and smart assistance in Notes and Messages apps.
iPad (11th Generation): Affordable Power for Everyone
Apple’s 11th-generation iPad remains the go-to choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet capable device. Designed with students, families, and casual users in mind, it strikes a perfect balance between performance and affordability.
A16 Bionic Chip
This iPad comes with the A16 Bionic chip—still a powerhouse for most day-to-day tasks. It handles multitasking, media consumption, casual gaming, and web browsing with ease.
11-Inch Liquid Retina Display
The slightly larger 11-inch display enhances the user experience, especially for reading, drawing, and video playback. While it may not have the deep blacks of an OLED screen, it remains crisp and colorful.
Storage and Connectivity
The device offers multiple storage options, starting from 128GB and going up to 512GB. It supports Wi-Fi 6 for faster internet connections and Bluetooth 5.3 for better accessory pairing.
iPadOS 18, But No Apple Intelligence
Although it runs the latest iPadOS 18, the entry-level iPad does not support Apple’s most advanced AI features due to hardware limitations. However, it still benefits from improved Notes, Calculator, and multitasking tools.
iPadOS 18: More Than Just a Software Update
iPadOS 18 plays a crucial role in elevating the iPad experience across all models. It introduces several powerful new tools and system-wide improvements:
- Math Notes: Write equations by hand, and the system solves them in real-time. You can also plot graphs directly in the Calculator app.
- Smart Script: Handwriting in the Notes app now appears smoother and more legible, thanks to real-time machine learning enhancements.
- Enhanced Privacy Controls: Users can lock or hide apps behind Face ID or passcodes, improving overall security.
- Customizable Home Screen: iPadOS 18 allows more flexibility with app placement, widgets, and theme settings.
These updates make iPads even more versatile, whether you’re a student, professional, or casual user.
What’s Coming Next? Future Possibilities for iPads
Haptic Buttons and New Materials
Rumors suggest that Apple is working on incorporating haptic feedback into the side and volume buttons of its devices. Instead of physical clicks, users would feel a vibration-based response—offering durability and futuristic design cues. Though this might not appear in the 2025 models, it sets the stage for innovations in 2026 and beyond.
Flexible and Foldable iPads?
Apple is also reportedly exploring foldable display technologies. While not expected this year, the concept of a foldable iPad could combine the portability of a phone with the screen real estate of a tablet, potentially revolutionizing the product line.
More Pro Accessories
With creative professionals increasingly relying on iPads, Apple may also launch more advanced accessories—such as enhanced styluses with sensors for brush tilt, or keyboards with integrated trackpads that rival those on MacBooks.
Which iPad Should You Wait For?
If you’re a power user or professional in fields like design, video editing, or architecture, the iPad Pro with the upcoming M5 chip is worth the wait. It will offer unmatched speed, display quality, and AI features.
The iPad Air is a fantastic middle-ground device, ideal for students, content creators, and general users who want high performance without the Pro price tag.
For casual use, media consumption, or as a secondary device, the 11th-generation iPad delivers all the essentials without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Apple’s upcoming iPads in 2025 are poised to offer a wide range of improvements—from raw performance and AI-driven features to better displays and accessories. Whether you’re upgrading from an older model or diving into the iPad ecosystem for the first time, there’s never been a better time to consider one.
