Apple Unveils iPad Air with M3 Chip, New Magic Keyboard, and iPad 11th Gen with A16
Apple has introduced the latest iPad Air, now powered by the M3 chip, bringing a modest performance boost, improved graphics, and AI-driven features. Available in both 11-inch and 13-inch models, the new iPad Air offers a balance of power and portability at the same price as its predecessor.
Performance Update with M3
The M3 chip provides an incremental upgrade over the M1 chip in the previous iPad Air, delivering up to 35% improved multithreaded CPU performance and 40% faster graphics. It also includes hardware-accelerated mesh shading, ray tracing, and dynamic caching for better rendering in games and creative applications.The M3’s Neural Engine is 60% faster than the one in M1, improving AI-based processing tasks like photo editing and Apple Intelligence features. It should be noted that Apple did not provide a comparison to the previous M2-based iPad Air, however, this device is likely not targeted to M2 iPad Air owners.
New Magic Keyboard at a Lower Price
Apple introduced a redesigned Magic Keyboard for iPad Air, featuring a floating design, a larger trackpad, and a 14-key function row for quick access to shortcuts like brightness and volume adjustments. Users will notice its similarities to the iPad Pro version. Pricing starts at $269 for the 11-inch model and $319 for the 13-inch version.Base iPad Gets A16 Chip and More Storage
Apple also updated its entry-level iPad with the A16 Bionic chip and doubled the starting storage. The A16 provides about 30% better performance compared to the previous model, making the base iPad a better value option. Notably, Apple's 11th-generation iPad does not support Apple Intelligence features, as these require at least an A17 Pro or any M-series chip.Pricing and Availability
The new iPad Air models start at $599 for the 11-inch version and $799 for the 13-inch model. Educational discounts drop these prices to $549 and $749, respectively. Pre-orders start now, with availability beginning March 12.While the iPad Air’s M3 chip provides a solid performance boost, it’s an expected spec bump rather than a major leap. Still, with its larger display option, AI-powered software features, and a lower-priced Magic Keyboard, the iPad Air remains a versatile choice for those looking for a capable tablet without stepping up to the iPad Pro.
