# Entry-Level iPad lands with A16 chip, but Apple Intelligence remains unavailable

Apple’s latest refresh of the entry-level iPad brings an A16 chip to the base model, yet it stops short of enabling Apple Intelligence, at least according to Apple’s official tech specs.

What was rumored vs what happened

• In January, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggested the base iPad would switch to an A17 Pro processor and unlock Apple Intelligence, with the device rumored to boost memory to 8GB to meet the AI requirements.
• That prediction did not materialize. The updated entry-level iPad runs the A16 chip, and Apple did not announce Apple Intelligence support for this model.
• A separate claim from a private X account with a strong track record had forecast an A16 upgrade for the base iPad, which proved accurate.

Where Apple Intelligence stands in Apple’s lineup

• Apple Intelligence is currently available on devices with hardware that meets certain requirements, including iPad Pro and iPad Air models powered by the M1 chip or newer, as well as the latest iPad mini with the A17 Pro.
• The entry-level iPad remains the only current model in Apple’s lineup without announced support for Apple Intelligence.

Context and ripple effects

• The broader push for AI features across Apple devices continues, but access to Apple Intelligence is still gated behind newer or higher-end hardware.
• For users seeking AI-powered capabilities, options include the iPad Pro, iPad Air with M1 or newer, and the iPad mini equipped with the A17 Pro.

Bottom line

• Today’s update gives the entry-level iPad a more capable chip, but it does not bring Apple Intelligence to the base model. If AI features are essential, consider whether your needs align with the newer iPad Pro, iPad Air, or iPad mini models that currently support Apple Intelligence.