Apple Unveils New iPad Air with M3 Chip

Apple has unveiled the latest version of its iPad Air, now powered by the M3 chip, offering enhanced performance and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities.

The new iPad Air comes in two sizes: an 11-inch model starting at $599 and a 13-inch version priced at $799. Pre-orders commenced on 4 March 2025, with in-store availability beginning on 12 March.

Key Features:

M3 Chip: The inclusion of the M3 chip provides a significant performance boost, with Apple claiming up to 35% faster multithreaded CPU performance and up to 40% improved graphics performance compared to the M1 model. This enhancement particularly benefits tasks such as video editing, 3D design, and gaming.

AI Capabilities: Designed with AI integration, the new iPad Air supports Apple Intelligence features, including the Clean Up tool in Photos for removing unwanted elements, natural language search, and the Image Wand in Notes, which converts sketches into images. Additionally, Siri is now more conversational and context-aware, integrating ChatGPT to assist with tasks such as drafting emails and messages.

Magic Keyboard: The iPad Air is compatible with a new Magic Keyboard featuring a larger trackpad and a 14-key function row for quick access to settings. It attaches magnetically and connects via the Smart Connector. The keyboard is available in white, with the 11-inch model priced at $269 and the 13-inch version at $319.

Apple Pencil Pro: The updated Apple Pencil Pro introduces new features, including a pressure-sensitive tip for dynamic line weight and shading, a customisable squeeze function for quick tool switching, and a gyroscope for precise control of brush and pen tools. It also supports Find My, helping users locate the stylus if misplaced.

Also Read: Apple to Enhance Vision Pro Headset with AI Features

The iPad Air now positions the front-facing Ultra-Wide 12MP camera along the landscape edge, optimising it for video calls. It also supports Wi-Fi 6E, offering up to twice the performance of the previous generation, while cellular models include 5G connectivity for faster internet access on the go.

Sustainability:

Apple highlights its commitment to sustainability with the new iPad Air, utilising 100% recycled aluminium in the enclosure, 100% recycled rare earth elements in all magnets, and 100% recycled gold plating and tin soldering in multiple printed circuit boards.

With these advancements, the new iPad Air aims to provide users with a versatile and powerful tablet experience, catering to both productivity and creative needs.