A new iPad Air is in the spotlight today as Apple formally reveals its latest iteration, now equipped with the M3 chip. This version also includes a refreshed Magic Keyboard and an updated base iPad Air.
Apple has shared impressive performance metrics for the new M3-equipped iPad Air:
- Features an 8-core CPU and a 9-core GPU
- Includes support for dynamic caching, hardware-accelerated mesh shading, and ray tracing
- Delivers performance that is 2x greater than the iPad Air with M1
- 3.5x faster than the iPad Air that uses the A14 Bionic chip
- Boasts 40% enhanced graphic performance compared to the iPad Air with M1
- AI-based workflows are 60% faster than those on the M1 iPad Air
According to Apple:
Apple has unveiled the swift and robust iPad Air with the M3 chip, designed for Apple Intelligence. The iPad Air with M3 introduces Apple’s advanced graphics architecture to this line for the first time, amplifying its exceptional mix of power-efficient performance and portability. It is nearly double the speed of the iPad Air with the M1 and up to 3.5x faster than the iPad Air with the A14 Bionic.
Every task will benefit from the M3’s speed, from swiftly creating engaging content to playing graphics-heavy games. The 11-inch iPad Air offers remarkable portability, while the 13-inch model provides a larger display perfect for creativity and productivity. The brand-new Magic Keyboard designed for iPad Air enhances its versatility and offers more features at a more affordable price point. With iPadOS 18 and support for Apple Intelligence, alongside advanced cameras, rapid 5G connectivity, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), the new iPad Air presents an unparalleled experience.
Additionally, Apple has introduced a new Magic Keyboard tailored for the iPad Air. While it resembles the Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro, there are distinct differences. It features a 14-key function row that includes screen brightness and volume controls, as well as a larger trackpad compared to the previous version. However, it is not constructed from the premium aluminum materials found in the iPad Pro’s Magic Keyboard (except for the hinge).
The pricing for the new Magic Keyboard starts at $269 for the 11-inch variant and $319 for the 13-inch model.
The pricing for the new iPad Air remains the same, with the 11-inch version starting at $599 and the 13-inch version beginning at $799. Orders can be placed starting today, with availability set for Wednesday, March 12. The device comes in blue, purple, starlight, and space gray, with storage options of 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.
