What iPad models are likely coming in 2025

Apple typically releases new iPad models between spring and fall each year, though the exact timing and which models get updates varies. For 2025, reports from supply chain sources and Apple analysts suggest updates are coming to the iPad Pro, iPad Air, and possibly the base iPad model, but Apple has not announced specific release dates or confirmed which models will be refreshed.

The iPad Pro is most likely to see an update in 2025, potentially with a thinner design and new processor. The iPad Air may also receive a processor upgrade. The base iPad and iPad mini are less certain — they may be updated or may skip 2025 entirely. Apple's actual announcement dates and product details remain unknown until the company makes them public.

Key Takeaways

  • iPad Pro and iPad Air updates are considered more likely in 2025 than updates to the base iPad or iPad mini, based on typical Apple release cycles.
  • Apple has not announced any new iPad models or release dates for 2025, so all current information comes from supply chain reports and analyst predictions.
  • New iPad models typically launch in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), though Apple sometimes releases them at other times.
  • Processor upgrades are the most common change between iPad generations, though design changes or display improvements are also possible.

iPad Pro: The most likely 2025 update

The iPad Pro is Apple's highest-end tablet and typically receives the newest technology first. The current iPad Pro models (11-inch and 12.9-inch) were released in October 2022 with the M2 chip. By 2025, they will be over two years old, which is when Apple usually refreshes the line.

Rumors suggest a new iPad Pro could arrive in spring 2025 with the M5 chip and a thinner overall design. Some reports mention a possible new display technology or improved camera system, though these details are not confirmed. If Apple follows its recent pattern, the 11-inch and 12.9-inch sizes will likely continue, though the larger model may be renamed to 13-inch.

iPad Air: Processor upgrade expected

The iPad Air (currently available in 10.9-inch and 12.9-inch sizes) last received a major update in March 2024 with the M2 chip. A full redesign in 2025 is less likely, but a processor bump to the M3 or M4 chip is possible later in the year.

The iPad Air sits between the base iPad and iPad Pro in Apple's lineup, so it typically gets processor updates a year or two after the Pro. If the iPad Pro moves to M5 in spring 2025, the Air might follow with M4 in fall 2025, though this timing is not confirmed.

Base iPad and iPad mini: Updates are uncertain

The base iPad (10.9-inch) was updated in October 2024 with the A14 chip and a new design. The iPad mini (7-inch) was last updated in October 2023 with the A17 Pro chip. Neither model is due for an update based on Apple's typical two-year refresh cycle, so 2025 updates are less likely.

However, Apple sometimes breaks its own patterns. If either model does receive an update in 2025, it would most likely happen in fall rather than spring. The base iPad might move to the A15 or A16 chip, while the iPad mini could receive the A18 chip to match other iPad Air models.

How to find out when new iPads actually launch

Apple announces new products through press releases on its website and through events held at its headquarters or online. For iPad announcements, Apple typically sends invitations to media outlets a week or two before the event. You can check Apple's official newsroom at apple.com/newsroom to see announcements as they happen.

If you want to know about upcoming releases before they are official, tech news sites like MacRumors, 9to5Mac, and The Verge regularly report on supply chain leaks and analyst predictions. These sources are often accurate but are not confirmed until Apple makes an announcement. Following Apple's social media accounts or signing up for email notifications from Apple also ensures you hear about new products immediately.

Should you wait for a 2025 iPad or buy now

If you need an iPad right now, the current models work well and will continue to receive software updates for years. Waiting for a potential 2025 release makes sense only if you can delay your purchase and want the newest technology or design.

The iPad Pro and iPad Air from 2024 are still powerful machines. If you are considering a base iPad or iPad mini, waiting until fall 2025 might be worth it since those models are older. If you are looking at the iPad Pro specifically, waiting until spring 2025 could be reasonable if you want the rumored M5 chip and thinner design, but remember that these details are not confirmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Apple usually announce new iPads?

Apple typically announces iPad updates in spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), though timing varies by model. iPad Pro updates often come in spring, while other models may launch in fall. Apple does not follow a fixed schedule, so exact dates are only known after the company makes an announcement.

Will the new iPad Pro be significantly thinner?

Reports suggest a thinner iPad Pro design is possible in 2025, but this is not confirmed. Apple has been making its devices thinner over time, so it would fit the company's design direction. The actual thickness and other design details will only be known when Apple announces the product.

What processor will the 2025 iPad Pro have?

Rumors point to an M5 chip for the 2025 iPad Pro, but Apple has not confirmed this. The M5 would likely offer better performance and power efficiency than the current M2. Processor details are speculation until Apple makes an official announcement.

Should I buy an iPad now or wait for 2025 models?

If you need an iPad now, current models are capable and will work for years. If you can wait and want the newest technology, waiting until spring 2025 for a potential iPad Pro update makes sense. For other models, waiting may not be necessary unless you specifically want the latest processor.

Where can I find official information about new iPad releases?

Apple's official newsroom at apple.com/newsroom is the best source for confirmed product announcements. Tech news sites like MacRumors and 9to5Mac report on rumors and leaks, but these are not official until Apple announces them. You can also follow Apple's social media accounts for immediate notifications.