Apple has unveiled the iPad 11 alongside the iPad Air M3, which comes with a faster A16 chip and expanded memory. The new model offers improved performance and remains attractively priced. However, it does not feature the integration of Apple Intelligence, which is reserved for the higher-end models.
Key new features of the iPad 11:
- Powerful A16 chip: 30% increase in performance compared to the previous model.
- Expanded memory: base model now with 128 GB instead of the previous 64 GB.
- Unchanged design: Retention of the 10.9-inch display and the familiar form factor.
Improved performance and storage options
The iPad 11 is equipped with the A16 chip that was previously used in the iPhone 14 Pro. This processor has one CPU and one GPU core less than the variant in the iPhone 14 Pro, which nevertheless enables a performance increase of around 30% compared to the A14 chip in the previous model. This improvement ensures a smoother user experience, especially with demanding applications and multitasking.
In terms of storage, Apple is doubling the capacity of the basic model from 64 GB to 128 GB without increasing the price. In addition, variants with 256 GB and, for the first time, 512 GB are available to meet the different needs of users.
Design and compatibility
The iPad 11 retains the 10.9-inch display and the design of its predecessor, which is similar to that of the iPad Air and iPad Pro. It is available in blue, pink, yellow and silver. Touch ID remains integrated in the power button and the USB-C port (USB 2.0) is used for charging and data transfer. The device is compatible with the first-generation Apple Pencil (with Lightning connector) and the Apple Pencil with USB-C.
Dispensing with Apple Intelligence
Despite the hardware improvements, the iPad 11 does not support the new Apple Intelligence functions. These AI-based features, which enable advanced interactions among other things, are reserved for higher-end models such as the new iPad Air with the M3 chip. The absence of Apple Intelligence in the iPad 11 could be a decisive factor for users who value these functions.
Price and availability
The iPad 11 will be available from March 12, 2025. The prices are as follows:
- 128 GB Wi-Fi: 399 euros
- 256 GB Wi-Fi: 529 euros
- 512 GB Wi-Fi: 779 euros
- 128 GB Wi-Fi + 5G: 569 euros
- 256 GB Wi-Fi + 5G: 699 euros
- 512 GB Wi-Fi + 5G: 949 euros
With these improvements, the iPad 11 positions itself as a powerful yet affordable tablet for users looking for a reliable device without the latest AI features.
