The Apple iPad A16 – 11th Gen (Wi-Fi/Cell, China) is a region-specific version of Apple’s 2025 iPad lineup, designed exclusively for mainland China. It shares its processor, display, and design with the global model, but includes modified cellular band support and a unique model number: A3356.
This model supports eSIM only—no nano-SIM tray—and includes 4G LTE on 29 bands (excluding bands 11 and 21) and 5G on 26 bands, but no mmWave support. The device maintains premium build quality and Apple’s user experience while adhering to region-specific network compliance.
iPad A16 – China Edition: Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | iPad A16 (Wi-Fi + Cellular, China) |
| Model ID | iPad15,8 |
| Apple Model No. | A3356 (EMC 8806) |
| Processor | Apple A16 chip – 5-core CPU, 4-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine |
| Speed | 3.4 GHz |
| RAM | 6 GB (unofficial via teardown) |
| Storage Options | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB |
| Display | 10.9″ Liquid Retina (2360 x 1640, 264 ppi, 500 nits), True Tone |
| Cameras | 12 MP Wide (Rear), 12 MP Ultra Wide (Front) – 4K and 1080p, Center Stage |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE (29 bands), 5G (26 bands), GPS/GNSS, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| SIM Type | eSIM only – No physical SIM support |
| Ports | USB-C, Smart Connector |
| Audio | Stereo speakers; supports AAC, FLAC, Dolby formats |
| Color Options | Silver, Blue, Yellow, Pink |
| Keyboard Support | Smart Connector for Magic Keyboard Folio (MQDP3LL/A) |
| Apple Pencil Support | 1st Gen and USB-C Apple Pencil |
| OS | Preloaded with iPadOS 18.3; supports iPadOS 26 (No Apple Intelligence) |
| Battery Life | 10 hrs on Wi-Fi, 9 hrs on cellular, 28.93 Whr Li-Po |
| Dimensions (in) | 9.79 x 7.07 x 0.28 |
| Weight | 1.06 lbs (481 g) |
| Mac Support | macOS 10.13+ |
| Windows Support | Windows 10+ |
| Original Price (RMB) | ¥4,299 (128 GB), ¥4,799 (256 GB), ¥6,499 (512 GB) |
What’s Different in the Chinese Variant?
- Cellular Bands: This A3356 model lacks LTE bands 11 and 21. Otherwise, it retains wide 5G coverage (26 bands).
- Availability: Only sold in mainland China, not internationally.
- Price & Order Numbers: Region-specific Apple codes, e.g., MD7U4CH/A, reflect different configurations and colors.
- No mmWave: Like global units, this model excludes mmWave 5G.
Limitations & Compatibility Notes
- No Apple Intelligence Support: Despite being a 2025 model, it lacks support for AI features such as Live Translation and Full External Display in iPadOS 26.
- No ProMotion or P3 Color Gamut: The Liquid Retina display omits 120Hz refresh and Wide Color.
- Not Fully Laminated Display: The screen lacks lamination and anti-reflective coating.
