Apple’s 2026 iPad Lineup Leak Hints at A19 iPad and M4 iPad Air

An internal Apple document reportedly seen by Macworld has revealed early details about the 2026 iPad lineup. The pre-release iOS 26 code reviewed by Macworld’s Filipe Esposito points to two major updates next year. Apple is preparing a new entry-level iPad with the A19 chip and a refreshed iPad Air powered by the M4 processor.

A19 Chip Planned For The Entry Level iPad

The entry level iPad is set for a strong performance bump. According to the leaked iOS 26 code, the new model listed under the codenames J581 and J582 will use the A19 chip, the same processor in the iPhone 17.

This is a clear upgrade from the A16 chip in the current 11th-generation iPad. Apple Intelligence features also rely on newer hardware, so the move to A19 brings this model in line with Apple’s future plans for iPadOS.

Key improvements from the source:

• A19 is about 50 percent faster than A16
• RAM increases from 6GB to 8GB for better multitasking and AI features
• Apple’s N1 wireless chip is included for faster and more stable connections
• Design, display, and camera hardware are expected to stay the same

The upgrade focuses on speed and long-term software support rather than changing the physical design.

New iPad Air Expected With M4 Chip

The internal code also outlines a new iPad Air lineup powered by the M4 chip.
These models appear under the codenames J707, J708, J737, and J738.

The jump from M3 to M4 is not a major redesign, but users upgrading from older iPads will still see noticeable gains.

What the source confirms:

• Move from M3 to M4
• N1 wireless chip added for better connectivity
• Same display sizes and overall design
• No major camera upgrades

Apple seems to be focusing on consistent performance improvements rather than hardware changes here as well.

No Signs Of New iPad Pro Or iPad mini

Macworld notes that the internal iOS 26 code does not mention any new iPad Pro or iPad mini models.

Both product lines follow irregular release cycles, so a skip in 2026 is possible. Since this information comes from an early software build, Apple’s plans could still shift.

Expected Release Timeline

Macworld’s source says both the A19 iPad and the M4 iPad Air are planned for release sometime next year.

If Apple follows this path, the 2026 lineup will focus on faster chips and improved wireless performance instead of design changes.