On March 3, 2025, Apple Inc. announced the release of its new iPad (A16), featuring significant upgrades including the A16 chip and increased storage capacity. This new model, which is set to launch on March 12, offers consumers not only enhanced performance but also greater value without increasing prices.
The starting price for the new Wi-Fi model of the iPad is 58,800 yen, which now includes 128GB of storage—double the capacity of the previous generation’s base model, which was priced at the same rate for only 64GB of storage. The pricing for the other models is 74,800 yen for 256GB and 110,800 yen for 512GB. The new iPad is also available for pre-order starting from the announcement day, making it accessible for consumers eager to upgrade.
The A16 chip not only powers the new iPad but has also been utilized in the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15, showcasing Apple’s commitment to equipping its devices with high-performance technology. According to Apple’s press release, this latest chip enhances overall processor performance by nearly 50% compared to the A13 Bionic chip found in the previous generation, the iPad (9th generation). The company has boldly claimed the new iPad is up to six times faster than leading Android competitors equipped with the Snapdragon 695 chip.
Aside from the processing power, the new iPad retains the same 11-inch Liquid Retina display used previously, featuring specs such as IPS LCD technology, 2,360 x 1,640 resolution, 500 nits brightness, and True Tone support. This means users can expect vibrant visuals and clarity ideal for various applications, from professional use to casual browsing and media consumption.
Camera capabilities are also impressive, with the iPad (A16) featuring a 12-megapixel single rear camera and another 12-megapixel camera equipped with the Center Stage feature for video calls arranged horizontally on the front. This provides users with high-quality photography and seamless video interaction.
For those who enjoy creative work, the new iPad supports the Apple Pencil (USB-C) and also accommodates the first-generation Apple Pencil through the USB-C to Apple Pencil adapter. This flexibility is one of the appealing features for students and professionals alike who rely on stylus input for detailed work.
Connectivity is strengthened with the support of Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth v5.3, providing faster and more reliable connections compared to the previous model which had Bluetooth v5.2. Notably, the new iPad’s Wi-Fi + Cellular option exclusively uses eSIM, eliminating the physical SIM slot for improved design streamlined for mobile connectivity.
With dimensions identical to the previous model at 248.6 x 179.5 x 7 mm and weighing 477g for the Wi-Fi model, the new iPad retains the compact and lightweight design users have come to appreciate.
Despite all the upgrades, it’s important to note, as stated by Apple, the new iPad does not support Apple Intelligence, which is expected to become available for English and Japanese users later this spring. This may influence some consumers’ purchasing decisions as they look for cutting-edge features.
Available colors for the iPad (A16) include the vibrant blue, pink, yellow, and classic silver, giving consumers choices to match their personal style.
The new iPad (A16), packed with cutting-edge technology and consumer-friendly pricing, is set to make waves upon its release. Apple continues to position its iPads as formidable competitors against Android tablets, constantly raising the bar on performance, storage, and functionality. With pre-orders already commencing and the release date near, tech enthusiasts are eager to see how this latest model stands up to expectations.
Overall, the new iPad signifies Apple’s commitment to delivering high-performance devices at competitive prices, making it enticing for both existing and new customers alike. What remains to be seen is how consumers respond to the lack of support for Apple Intelligence and whether the performance improvements will be sufficient to sway buyers toward upgrading.