Monday, 17 March 2025
28 C
Singapore
31.8 C
Thailand
26.3 C
Indonesia
26.9 C
Philippines

Apple updates the basic iPad with a faster chip and more storage

Apple updates its basic iPad with a faster A16 chip and 128GB storage. Pre-orders are open, with retail availability on March 12.

Apple has refreshed its basic iPad with a faster A16 Bionic chip and more storage as standard. This upgrade improves performance on the entry-level iPad, making it a more attractive option for everyday users.

The A16 Bionic chip, first introduced in the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max, features a five-core CPU and a four-core GPU. This means smoother performance for multitasking, gaming, and video editing. However, the new iPad does not support Apple Intelligence, Appleโ€™s latest AI-driven features. While this may disappoint some, it is unlikely to affect most users who rely on the iPad for general tasks such as browsing, media consumption, and note-taking.

The base storage has also been doubled, starting at 128GB instead of 64 GB. If you require more space, there are options for 256GB and 512GB models, giving users greater flexibility to store apps, media, and documents.

What remains the same?

Aside from the upgraded chip and storage, the rest of the iPad remains unchanged. It still features an 11-inch Liquid Retina display, a single 12MP rear camera, and support for USB-C Apple Pencil and the first-generation Apple Pencil. If you need a keyboard, it is compatible with the Magic Keyboard Folio, allowing for a more laptop-like experience.

While these updates are relatively minor, they enhance Appleโ€™s most affordable iPad without drastically increasing prices. The lack of Apple Intelligence support may seem like a drawback. Still, given the iPadโ€™s target audienceโ€”students, casual users, and those looking for a budget-friendly Apple deviceโ€”it is unlikely to be a major concern.

Availability and pricing

The new iPad is available in four colours: blue, pink, yellow, and silver. Prices start at US$499. Pre-orders are open now, with retail availability beginning on March 12.

You can pre-order the latest iPad through the Apple Online Store, and it will soon be available on Appleโ€™s official storefronts on Lazada and Shopee.

Hot this week

James Dyson Award opens for 2025, celebrating 20 years of innovation

The James Dyson Award 2025 opens for submissions, celebrating 20 years of supporting young inventors with funding and global recognition.

Sandmarc launches 10x optical zoom lens for iPhones, leaving Android users amused

Sandmarc launches a 10x optical zoom lens for iPhones, enhancing long-range photography while amusing Android users already using this feature.

Singapore launches AI initiatives to help SMEs and upskill workers

Singapore launches AI initiatives to support SMEs and upskill workers, introducing the GenAI Playbook and expanded AI training under SkillsFuture.

Trump vows to classify violence against Tesla as domestic terrorism

Trump vows to classify attacks on Tesla dealerships as domestic terrorism, sparking debate over protests, government cuts, and Muskโ€™s influence.

ChopNow expands BNPL services with new retail partnerships in Singapore

ChopNow expands its BNPL services in Singapore with new retail partners, offering more flexible payment options for furniture, home dรฉcor, workspaces, and e-bikes.

Baidu introduces new AI models, claiming superiority over DeepSeek and OpenAI

Baidu launches Ernie 4.5 and Ernie X1, claiming they surpass DeepSeek and OpenAI in AI benchmarks while shifting towards open-source AI development.

Sonos struggles to fix app issues as users remain frustrated

Sonos is still working to fix its app after a controversial redesign. Some features have returned, but key functions remain missing.

Joby and Virgin Atlantic to launch air taxi service in the UK

Joby and Virgin Atlantic are set to launch an electric air taxi service in the UK, promising faster and eco-friendly travel. Learn more about the plans.

Amazon to send all Echo voice recordings to the cloud from March 28

Starting March 28, Amazon Echo users will lose the option for local voice processing as Alexa shifts to full cloud-based storage, sparking privacy concerns.

Related Articles