Apple has announced a significant update to its iPad lineup with the introduction of the new iPad Air powered by the M3 chip. The latest iteration maintains the same starting price points as previous models—$599 for the 11-inch and $799 for the 13-inch versions—while delivering substantial performance improvements.
According to Apple, the M3-powered iPad Air is nearly twice as fast as the M1 model and up to 3.5 times faster than the A14 Bionic version. The new chip features an 8-core CPU that's 35 percent faster for multithreaded workflows compared to the M1, and a 9-core GPU delivering up to 40 percent faster graphics performance. For graphics-intensive rendering, Apple claims performance improvements of up to 4x over the M1 Air.
The Neural Engine in the M3 also brings significant improvements, running AI-based workloads up to 60 percent faster than the M1. This enhancement supports Apple Intelligence capabilities including the Clean Up tool in Photos, natural language search, Image Wand in Notes, and Image Playground for creative expression.
Alongside the iPad Air, Apple has introduced a redesigned Magic Keyboard with notable improvements at a lower price point. Starting at $269 for the 11-inch model and $319 for the 13-inch version, the new keyboard features a larger trackpad, a new 14-key function row for screen brightness and volume controls, and maintains the floating design users are familiar with.
Apple executive Bob Borchers highlighted the iPad Air's popularity, noting it offers an "unmatched combination of powerful performance, portability, and support for advanced accessories, all at an affordable price."
The new iPad Air is available in four finishes—blue, purple, starlight, and space gray—with storage options ranging from 128GB to 1TB. Apple has also updated the base iPad with the A16 chip and doubled the starting storage capacity while maintaining competitive pricing.
Both new iPad models are designed with environmental considerations in mind, featuring at least 30 percent recycled content overall, including 100 percent recycled aluminum enclosures and rare earth elements in all magnets. For the first time in iPad, the batteries contain over 95 percent recycled lithium.
iPad Air with M3 and iPad with A16 Specifications
Here's a comprehensive specification table for the newly announced iPad Air with M3 chip and the updated iPad with an A16 chip:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | Apple M3 chip with 8-core CPU, 9-core GPU |
| Performance |
Nearly 2x faster than the M1 iPad Air Up to 3.5x faster than the A14 Bionic iPad Air Up to 4x faster for graphics-intensive rendering than M1 |
| Neural Engine | Up to 60% faster for AI workloads compared to M1 |
| Display Sizes | 11-inch and 13-inch options |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB |
| Colours | Blue, Purple, Starlight, Space Gray |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E and 5G cellular models are available |
| Compatibility | Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C) New Magic Keyboard |
| Software | iPadOS 18 with Apple Intelligence support |
| Starting Price |
$599 (11-inch, Wi-Fi) $749 (11-inch, Wi-Fi + Cellular) $799 (13-inch, Wi-Fi) $949 (13-inch, Wi-Fi + Cellular) Education pricing: $549 (11-inch), $749 (13-inch) |
| Environmental |
100% recycled aluminum enclosure 100% recycled rare earth elements in magnets 100% recycled cobalt in battery Over 95% recycled lithium in battery 30% recycled content overall |
| Availability | Pre-orders from March 4, 2024 Available from March 12, 2024 |
Magic Keyboard for iPad Air
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Features |
Larger built-in trackpad 14-key function row Machined aluminum hinge with USB-C connector |
| Colours | White |
| Price |
$269 (11-inch) $319 (13-inch) Education pricing: $249 (11-inch), $299 (13-inch) |
| Compatibility | 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air with M3 |
Updated iPad with A16 Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | A16 chip |
| Performance |
Nearly 30% faster than the previous generation Up to 50% faster than iPad with A13 Bionic Up to 6x faster than best-selling Android tablet |
| Storage Options | 128GB (double the previous starting storage), 256GB, 512GB |
| Colours | Blue, Pink, Yellow, Silver |
| Price |
$349 (Wi-Fi) $499 (Wi-Fi + Cellular) Education pricing: $329 (Wi-Fi), $479 (Wi-Fi + Cellular) |
| Accessories |
Magic Keyboard Folio: $249 ($229 for education) Apple Pencil (USB-C): $79 ($69 for education) Apple Pencil (1st generation): Compatible |
| Availability | Pre-orders from March 4, 2024 Available from March 12, 2024 |
Both devices support Apple Intelligence features including the Clean Up tool in Photos, natural language search, Image Wand, Image Playground, Genmoji, Writing Tools, and enhanced Siri capabilities with ChatGPT integration.
Pre-orders for both the iPad Air with M3 and the updated iPad are available now, with devices scheduled to begin shipping on March 12.