iPad (2025) with A16 review: No Apple intelligence, no problem

Apple’s iPad (A16) lacks new features but is fast and affordable.

: The latest iPad utilizes the A16 chip, providing ample speed for most user activities, doubling storage and RAM while maintaining a low cost. Its design remains unchanged from the previous model, featuring an 11-inch display, 12MP cameras, and lasting battery life. The device lacks Apple’s new AI, but the iPadOS continues to enhance app usage. Despite display and accessory drawbacks, it meets basic tablet needs, remaining practical for casual users over demanding ones.

The iPad (2025) with A16 remains loyal to its core functionalities, catering to a broad audience without incorporating Apple's recent AI developments. Jeff Dunn, a seasoned technology reporter, elaborates on the 11-inch model, emphasizing the unchanged design from the previous iteration. The device features a Liquid Retina Display, 12MP cameras, and reliable Touch ID, ensuring a familiar user experience. Notably, the A16 chip upgrade enhances performance, with 6GB of RAM, double that of its predecessor, offering a notable performance leap, although it lacks the future-proof capabilities of the M-series chips.

Storage boosts are another highlight, with the device now commencing at 128GB, decisively uplifting its long-term viability. Despite hardware enhancements, Dunn points out that peripheral support continues to pose challenges. Compatible with the original Apple Pencil and USB-C Pencil, it faces limitations compared to the Pencil Pro or second-gen stylus. The Magic Keyboard Folio, criticized for its lack of stability on laps and absence of backlit keys, appears overpriced at $249, indicating room for improvement.

An in-depth performance analysis via Geekbench 6 validates the upgrades, showcasing speed adequacy for typical iPad tasks such as browsing, streaming, and gaming, equating closely with the higher-end iPad Air M2 in day-to-day use. However, graphics and multi-core CPU scores expose its limitations compared to more advanced models, which could hinder highly demanding applications. Nevertheless, the device’s exemplary battery life and full iPadOS app ecosystem support remain strong selling points, endorsing it as a versatile choice for typical consumers.

Regarding display, Dunn encourages a refresh, advocating for updates to tackle the reflective and layered issues stemming from non-laminated designs. Such an improvement, as seen in other models, could notably elevate graphics quality and outdoor usability. Readers are encouraged to anticipate future iterations featuring advanced attributes, potentially driving closer competition between the price tiers in Apple’s tablet lineup.

While the absence of Apple Intelligence is no immediate detriment, Dunn alludes to prospective advantages as AI integrations evolve. Current features like Siri accessing ChatGPT or photo editing tools were acknowledged, but their allure remains marginal. Apple users desiring cutting-edge tech may need to look towards rival products, as enhancements appear focused on refining basic functionalities without intervening in emerging technological trends.

Sources: Engadget, Yahoo

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