The 8th-generation iPad debuts with the A12 Bionic chip

Apple unveiled its eighth-generation iPad outfitted with a powerful A12 Bionic chip that brings the Neural Engine to Apple’s entry-level iPad for the first time.

The eighth-generation iPad with A12 Bionic chip makes nary a compromise when it comes to impressive performance. Not only does it provide 40% faster performance than the previous chip, but it also boasts twice the graphics capability of the previous iPad.

Apple also claims the A12 Bionic Chip makes the new iPad up to two times faster than the top-selling Windows laptop, up to three times faster than the top-selling Android tablet, and up to six times faster than the top-selling Chromebook.

The A12 Bionic Chip also includes the Neural Engine - a first for the iPad - for improved machine learning capabilities, including motion tracking in augmented reality (AR) apps, enhanced photo editing, increased Siri performance and more.

“We’re excited to offer customers an even faster and more powerful experience with the eighth-generation iPad,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of worldwide marketing.

Joswiak added: “With its beautiful 10.2-inch Retina display, the performance boost from the A12 Bionic, great cameras, and so much more, the new iPad is an incredible value at a time when, more than ever, our customers need powerful and versatile ways to work, play, learn, and connect with loved ones.”

Apple also announced that iPadOS 14 will be available for all iPad models, including the eighth-generation iPad, on September 16. The updated operating system brings new features to the iPad, including Universal Search, sidebars for apps like Photos and Files and a more compact design for incoming FaceTime and phone calls and Siri interactions.

The eighth-generation iPad can be ordered today, and deliveries will start on September 18. Pricing starts from $329 for the Wi-Fi model and $459 for the Wi-Fi and cellular model. You can choose from three color options, silver, space gray or gold, and two internal memory configurations, 32GB or 128GB.