The source of the problem is easy to pinpoint: the extra-long wait for a new version of the budget iPad. Budget iPad is Apple’s most popularThe budget iPad has long been Apple’s most popular tablet because it delivers the core iPad experience at the lowest price. Why Apple tablet shipments dropped in Q2 2026While perennially popular, new budget iPad models are needed annually to spur demand. No new budget iPad in 2026Without a new budget iPad, Apple’s summer tablet shipments are likely to be down as well. That said, it’s been almost a year and a half since the last new budget iPad, and buyers shouldn’t expect one soon.