Apple Unveils New iPad Air with M3 Chip and Redesigned Magic Keyboard

iPad Air M3 Review: Once Again, the Pro iPad for Most

Nearly 20 years writing about tech, and over a decade reviewing wearable tech, VR, and AR products and apps We're midway through the 2020s now, and the iPad still feels like the same proposition as always: A really great tablet that can aspire to be your laptop replacement, if you're OK with a slight software adjustment. And once again, the "iPad Air" remains a misnomer: it's not the thinnest iPad. It is, however, the budget "Pro" for most people. The iPad Air and iPad Pro were updated a year ago; the iPad Air got an M2 processor, while the iPad Pro got an M4 and a total makeover, including a fancy new OLED display. The iPad Pro hasn't been refreshed yet this year and remains extremely expensive at $999 and up. The Air, meanwhile, received a chip bump to the M3 processor, and a revamped and slightly cheaper Magic Keyboard. And it starts at $599, the same as before. These updates are not exciting. In fact, it's hard to think of a time I was less excited about an iPad update. That doesn't mean the bumped-up performance with no added cost isn't welcome, but it's just not introducing anything new at all. A year ago, I called the iPad Air "the iPad Pro you should buy." So, obviously, my feelings remain unchanged. As nice as the fancier M4 iPad Pro might be, spending an extra $400 for it now that it's also a year old seems like a lot to ask. The iPad Air may be a bit thicker, and lack Face ID ... and Lidar on the back ... and an M4 chip ... and an OLED display ... but what the Air does have is very good performance, and still works with the Pencil Pro. Are you OK with those compromises? Then again, for most people, there's another iPad to consider: the basic one. The new entry iPad, also arriving at the same time as this Air, sounds like more than enough. I haven't tested that one yet (Apple didn't send one for review at the same time as this Air), but with 128GB of storage and a better A16 processor (that can't run Apple Intelligence), it's a good option worth considering. If you'd like to use a Pencil Pro and plan to power-use either AI or graphics features on the iPad, then the Air is your budget pick. I reviewed a 13-inch iPad Air configuration Apple sent me to test, with 1TB of storage. That's an expensive iPad ($1299), and at that price I'd just consider an upgrade to a Pro. But the 11-inch model, with less onboard storage, would be the one I'd consider. (The 13-inch model's display aspect ratio heavily letterboxes films anyway, making it less ideal for video watching than you'd think). There are reasons to spend more on this Air than the entry-level $349 iPad, even if you're spending $250 more to get it. The two big ones are the M3 chip and Pencil Pro ($129, sold separately) compatibility. The M3 boost over the A16 chip remains to be seen (as I said, I haven't tested the new iPad yet), but the M3 is a big jump in graphics, AI capability and speed, and won't be outdated anytime soon. Most iPad owners don't need the horsepower, but since Apple once again cut off the standard iPad from Apple Intelligence compatibility, you might feel more peace of mind with the Air long-term. The same goes for working with Pencil Pro, Apple's better stylus. It's a more feature-packed tool than the regular Pencil that works with the iPad, and a reason for artists to make the Air a no-brainer. It feels like Apple deliberately cut Pencil Pro support and an Apple Intelligence-capable chip off the entry-level iPad just to make the temptation clearer, which is annoying, but that's the way it goes this year. It's harder to justify spending more for the iPad Pro right now. The M3 versus the M4 chip performance gap diminishes compared to last year's M2 versus M4 gap. The iPad Air also works with the same type of Magic Keyboard this year and with the Pencil Pro. The iPad Pro gets you a high-contrast HDR custom OLED display, a thinner design, a Face ID camera and Lidar on the back if you care about those things, but those features come at a price jump of $400. To me, it just doesn't make sense. Apple's M series chips are fantastic performers, but I'd argue that their achievements on iPad are harder to appreciate unless you're a power user diving into AI, graphics or video or photo work. The M3 bump seems to offer another good step up: On Geekbench 6, the multicore score was 11,643, compared to the M4 iPad Pro's score of 14,672, and the M2 iPad Air's score last year of 9,894. That makes the iPad Air M3 about 18% percent faster than last year's M2 iPad Air. And the M4 iPad Pro roughly 26% faster than the M3 iPad Air in multitasking, on paper. But even Apple doesn't compare M chip gains year over year. Versus the M2, it's incremental. It'll feel like a big leap if it's your first time using an M-series iPad. If you already happen to have an M2 iPad Air Magic Keyboard from last year, which works on the M3 model, you don't need a new Magic Keyboard. But the slightly lower cost ($269 and up) and added row of function keys on the new Magic Keyboard make it a better pick (even though it still doesn't flip back to work in a folio-style mode). That said, it's my favorite option for laptopifying your iPad. The Magic Keyboard is heavy, though, and adds thickness to your iPad, too. I've gotten used to it, but on the 13-inch iPad Air it makes the whole thing heavier than a MacBook Air. Just a warning. But also, there are slight differences between the iPad Air and iPad Pro Magic Keyboards. For some reason, the trackpad area is larger on the Pro's, and the keyboard is more shifted up while staying the same size. I prefer the iPad Pro's keyboard layout, and don't know why the Air's couldn't have done the same. But there are more differences, too: the Air's keyboard lacks backlighting that the Pro version has. Also, the inner material isn't aluminum like the Pro. And the smaller trackpad uses a physical click mechanism instead of the haptic click of the Pro version. It has the passthrough USB-C port like the Pro one does, but corners have been cut here in several ways. Apple Intelligence has been the big software focus for Apple over the last year, and just like last year, the iPad Air can run all of the generative AI features Apple has put into iPadOS. Right now, those features just aren't all too amazing... or useful. Summarizing messages and notifications can get annoying and even misleading. Image Playground and Genmoji image generation aren't as good as generative AI image tools you can get in other apps. And while ChatGPT is integrated into Siri, you can also just use ChatGPT in the ChatGPT app. And with reports that Apple's promised revamp of Siri has been delayed again, it seems that there's no rush to adopt Apple Intelligence into your life. It's still a set of features that feel like they're in beta. The iPad is, you know, versatile. It can run tons of apps. It can multitask (to a degree), something the M-series chips can do even with a connected monitor. It can feel like a laptop. It can be a full computer experience if you want it to be. It's not the same as a Mac, though, which drives me crazy. Once again, I'm writing this review on the iPad Air, but I'll be filing the review on my MacBook because working on our CMS isn't always easy on iPads. They're not the same as Macs. The split identity of Apple's computer lineup continues onward, and you once again have to decide if you're an iPad person or a Mac person, or both. You can be both, and I am. But in that case, you don't want to spend a lot on that iPad, do you? The entry iPad feels priced to be a casual accessory, while the iPad Air's price spans somewhat affordable ($599) to high-end laptop if you bump up storage (up to 1TB configs are on tap) or add accessories like the Apple Pencil Pro or Magic Keyboard. Apple removed the "iPad Air" from the back of this iPad Air. There's just an Apple logo now. Maybe it's a sign. Air doesn't mean anything right now in Apple's iPad universe. The Air is very good, and at the right config, this could very well be the futureproofed, more affordable iPad that's perfect for you -- especially if you're interested in pushing the iPad hard for tools that will need the M3 performance. Don't overspend, and you'll be happy. What do I really want here? Well, I've said it before, I'd like these lovely keyboarded, powerful iPads to become Macs at the touch of a button. That would help me. And, sure, an OLED display would be nice. But the Air covers all the rest of the bases I'd ever need. I just can't justify them being super expensive if they're not ready to make the leap into MacOS convertibles, too. Apple's focus on the low and midrange iPads this time around could mean, possibly, that they agree. Or, the M5 chip for the Pro just isn't ready yet.

Apple Launches iPad Air with M3 and Redesigned Magic Keyboard

The new iPad Air M3 is redefining what users can expect from a tablet, combining innovative performance with sleek portability. Powered by the M3 chip, this latest iteration of the iPad Air delivers nearly twice the speed of its predecessor with the M1 chip and up to 3.5 times the performance of older models with the A14 Bionic chip. The M3 chip's 8-core CPU and 9-core GPU ensure lightning-fast workflows and stunning graphics, making the iPad Air M3 perfect for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and immersive gaming. With features like hardware-accelerated ray tracing and dynamic caching, users can experience unparalleled performance and visual fidelity in their creative projects and entertainment. The iPad Air M3's innovative performance extends beyond its raw processing power. The device's advanced thermal management system ensures optimal performance even during prolonged, intensive use. The M3 chip's energy efficiency allows for longer battery life, allowing users to work, create, and play for extended periods without interruption. Additionally, the iPad Air M3's seamless integration with iPadOS 18 and the Apple ecosystem unlocks a wide range of productivity and creativity features, making it an indispensable tool for professionals and enthusiasts alike. The iPad Air M3 also introduces a faster Neural Engine, offering up to 60% faster AI-based performance compared to the M1 model. This enhancement enables seamless integration with Apple Intelligence, allowing users to enjoy features like natural language search in Photos, advanced note-taking tools, and even ChatGPT integration for productivity. The improved AI capabilities streamline tasks such as image recognition, voice transcription, and language translation, making the iPad Air M3 an intelligent and intuitive companion for both work and leisure. The enhanced AI capabilities of the iPad Air M3 also contribute to improved user experience and accessibility features. For example, the device can now better understand and respond to voice commands, making it easier for users with mobility or visual impairments to navigate and interact with their iPad. Additionally, the advanced machine learning algorithms can adapt to user behavior and preferences, offering personalized recommendations and optimizations for a more efficient and enjoyable experience. The iPad Air M3 is available in two sizes: the 11-inch model starting at $599 and the 13-inch model starting at $799. For students and educators, Apple offers discounted pricing, with the 11-inch model starting at $549 and the 13-inch model at $749. Pre-orders are open now, with availability beginning March 12. The new Magic Keyboard, designed specifically for the iPad Air, starts at $269 for the 11-inch version and $319 for the 13-inch version, with education discounts also available. The iPad Air M3's pricing and availability demonstrate Apple's commitment to offering powerful, versatile devices across different price points. The education discounts make the device more accessible to students and educators, empowering them with the tools they need to succeed in their academic and professional pursuits. The March 12 release date ensures that users can get their hands on this innovative device soon, allowing them to experience the benefits of the M3 chip and enhanced AI capabilities firsthand. The iPad Air M3 is compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), making it a versatile tool for creatives and professionals alike. The redesigned Magic Keyboard enhances productivity with a larger trackpad, a 14-key function row, and a magnetic attachment for seamless connectivity. Starting at $79 for the Apple Pencil (USB-C) and $129 for the Apple Pencil Pro, these accessories are designed to complement the iPad Air's advanced capabilities. The compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C) opens up a world of possibilities for artists, designers, and note-takers. The low latency and precision of these styluses, combined with the iPad Air M3's responsive display and powerful processing, create a natural and immersive experience for digital drawing, sketching, and handwriting. The redesigned Magic Keyboard, with its larger trackpad and function row, offers a laptop-like experience for users who require extensive typing or navigation, further enhancing the iPad Air M3's versatility as a productivity device. The iPad Air M3's impressive specifications showcase its capabilities as a high-performance, feature-rich device. The Liquid Retina displays offer stunning visuals with vibrant colors and sharp details, while the various storage options cater to different user needs, from casual users to professionals with extensive libraries. The color options allow for personalization and self-expression, and the 5G support ensures fast and reliable connectivity for users on the go. The integration with iPadOS 18 and Apple Intelligence further enhances the user experience, offering intuitive interactions and powerful features for productivity and creativity. For those interested in other Apple products, the updated iPad with the A16 chip offers a more budget-friendly option with impressive performance gains. Additionally, iPadOS 18 introduces features like Math Notes and Smart Script, enhancing productivity across all iPad models. Whether you're a student, professional, or casual user, Apple's ecosystem continues to deliver innovative solutions for every need. The iPad Air M3 is a testament to Apple's commitment to innovation and user-centric design. By combining powerful performance, enhanced AI capabilities, and versatile accessories, this device sets a new standard for what users can expect from a tablet. As part of Apple's ecosystem, the iPad Air M3 seamlessly integrates with other Apple products and services, offering a cohesive and efficient experience for users across all their devices. Whether you're creating, learning, or entertaining, the iPad Air M3 is a catalyst that empowers users to unleash their creativity and productivity like never before.

Apple M3 iPad Air launched in India along with new Magic Keyboard: Check price, features here

Redesigned Magic Keyboard features a larger trackpad, function row, and USB-C charging. Apple has officially launched the M3 iPad Air in global markets, offering improved performance and efficiency. The new iPad will be available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, and it is claimed to be twice as fast as its M1-powered predecessor. The M3 iPad Air is available for pre-order today, with in-store availability beginning March 12. Here's everything you need to know about the new M3 iPad Air, including pricing, specifications, and features. The iPad Air comes powered by an 8-core CPU and 9-core GPU, making it faster compared to the M1 version. The new chipset has also brought enhanced AI capabilities, with a Neural Engine that is 60% faster for AI-based tasks, which means you can expect better user experience while using the latest Apple Intelligence features. The new M3 iPad Air gets Apple Intelligence features including the Clean Up tool in Photos that lets users remove distracting elements with a tap, while Image Wand in Notes transforms rough sketches into polished visuals. It also gets Genmoji, which allows users to generate unique emojis on demand, adding a personal touch to conversations. The new iPad also gets Siri enhancements making Apple's voice assistant more conversational and intuitive. Just like iPhones, the ChatGPT integration will enable iPad users access to OpenAI's chatbot within Siri and Writing Tools, all without requiring an account. Interestingly, Apple has also promised privacy protections, with most AI features running on-device and cloud-based requests processed securely through Private Cloud Compute. The iPad Air with M3 is available in 11-inch and 13-inch models and comes in blue, purple, starlight, and space grey with storage options of 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. Apple has introduced the redesigned Magic Keyboard for iPad Air and now offers a larger trackpad, and a 14-key function row for quick access to brightness and volume controls. It gets a USB-C charging port. It is priced at Rs 26,900 for the 11-inch model and Rs 29,900 for the 13-inch model.

Apple Introduces The New M3 iPad Air Lineup, Claims Up To A 40 Percent Improvement In CPU And GPU Workloads Compared To The M1, No Comparisons Made With The M2

A teaser from Apple CEO Tim Cook led to the assumption that the new M4 MacBook Air lineup will be announced, but the company had different ideas because it has instead unveiled the new M3 iPad Air series. Like the M2 models, the 11-inch and 13-inch models are being refreshed, with the company introducing a major chipset upgrade to the table. Unfortunately, instead of comparing the SoC with the older M2, Apple continues to provide performance numbers on how the M3 performs against the two-generation old M1. Here are more details that you might be interested in. The only meaningful change that Apple has brought to the table with the latest M3 iPad Air models is the chipset upgrade, but despite this massive internal switch, the company has not changed its pricing stance. The 11-inch model starts from $599, while the 13-inch version will set you back by $799, making these figures completely unchanged from the M2 family. As for students, they can get the M3 iPad Air models from $549. Regarding performance numbers, Apple claims that the 8-core CPU configuration of the M3 can lead to 35 percent better multi-threaded performance than the M1 iPad Air. On the GPU side of things, the technology claims a 40 percent boost in graphics performance, with the M3 iPad Air sporting nine cores. For those who forgot, this Apple Silicon was the first to bring hardware-accelerated ray tracing, and thankfully, the same technology support remains unchanged. The new SoC is equipped with a faster Neural Engine, with Apple claiming up to 60 percent faster AI workloads compared to the M1. The newer tablets can also run generative AI features and support the new Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro. In the press release, what surprised us the most was that the company showcased no comparison details with the M2. The reason for this is simple; the M3 barely delivers any meaningful performance gains over the M2, which is why it is disappointing to hear that the 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models were not treated to the M4, which would have elevated their 'price to performance' ratio. Regardless, customers interested in these models can pre-order on Apple's online store in 29 countries, including the U.S. The official release in multiple regions will commence from March 12, with the M3 iPad Air available in the Blue, Purple, Starlight, and Space Gray finishes, with capacities of 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.

Apple Announces New 11th-Gen iPad With A16 Chip, Twice The Storage Capacity, But Lacks Apple Intelligence Support Due To Hardware Limitation

Today, Apple has seen fit to announce the new 11th-gen iPad with upgraded internals but the same design as before. The new entry-level iPad features enhanced performance with the company's A16 Bionic chip, which means that it is the only Apple device launched in recent times to ditch Apple Intelligence. Apple's decision to skip its AI features for the budget iPad makes a lot of sense as it would have cannibalized the iPad mini 7. It was reported yesterday that Apple will release a new 'Air' product this week, and while we thought that the company was eyeing the MacBook Air, the Cupertino giant had something else in mind. The iPad (A16) is now here and features the same design as its predecessor, which is fine since it keeps up with the company's entire lineup with slimmer bezels. The new model comes with a USB-C port on the bottom and a single-lens camera on the back. It supports iOS 18, but skips Apple Intelligence features, which we will talk about later on. Internally, the recently announced budget iPad is equipped with an A16 chip, which is 30 percent faster than the A14 chip in the 10th-gen iPad. In contrast, Apple also states that the cheapest iPad is at least six times faster than the best-selling Android tablet, touting the performance gains of the A16 chip. However, we already know that Apple has set a few limitations and eligibility criteria for Apple Intelligence, and the new iPad (A16) does not fulfill them. The A16 chip provides a jump in performance for everyday tasks and experiences in iPadOS, while still providing all-day battery life. Compared to the previous generation, the updated iPad with A16 is nearly 30 percent faster. In fact, compared to iPad with A13 Bionic, users will see up to a 50 percent improvement in overall performance, and A16 makes the updated iPad up to 6x faster than the best-selling Android tablet. In a nutshell, the 11th-gen iPad supports all the new features in iOS 18, but the A16 chip inside the device is not powerful enough to bolster Apple Intelligence upgrades. This also means that it is the only device that misses out on AI features. Besides this, the iPad 11 continues to feature support for Apple Pencil (USB-C), allowing users to interact with the device more precisely when it comes to drawing. Since the design is the same, you can use the same Magic Keyboard Folio accessory for your typing needs. Lastly, the device also features upgraded storage capacity, which means that it now starts at 128GB instead of 64GB and can be upgraded to 256GB and 512GB. The iPad 11 starts at $349 for the WiFi model and $499 for the cellular model. Students can get their hands on the device for $329 and $479, respectively. You can pre-order the device starting today, and it will start shipping on March 12. Apple has also announced the new M3 iPad Air, so be sure to check that out as well.

Apple launches new iPad Air with AI features to stoke demand

Apple has released new iPad Air models featuring the M3 chip and advanced AI capabilities, with prices starting at $599. Pre-orders begin on Tuesday, with availability from March 12. The previous iPad Air models with the M2 chip contributed to strong sales last year, surpassing holiday quarter estimates.Apple on Tuesday launched new versions of its iPad Air, enhancing the mid-tier tablet with its M3 chip and artificial intelligence capabilities in a bid to spur upgrades among customers. The revamped lineup starts at $599 for the 11-inch model, and the 13-inch variant at $799. Pre-orders open Tuesday, with deliveries set to start on March 12. Apple has been equipping its devices with more powerful chips designed to handle AI tasks, such as summoning ChatGPT to answer user queries, as it seeks to attract customers and keep pace with rivals including Samsung and China's Huawei that are racing to embed AI into their products. Last month, the company launched a budget-minded phone, iPhone 16e, lowering the entry barrier for its phones with Apple Intelligence to around $600 to win back customers looking to buy mid-range phones in key markets such as India. Apple Intelligence is a set of features with access to ChatGPT that lets users write emails, messages and edit photos among other capabilities. While Apple Intelligence was not immediately available when the iPhone 16 series was launched in September last year, the company has since been rolling out a suite of AI features in more languages and regions in phases. Last May, Apple introduced a generation of iPad Air with M2 chip, with the 11-inch device sporting the same price as the latest version. The company said on Tuesday that while it has updated the regular iPad with double the storage for the base variant and the A16 chip, the product will not support Apple Intelligence. The company's iPad sales came in at $8.09 billion for the holiday quarter, above estimates of $7.32 billion, according to data compiled by LSEG. Over half of the sales in the three-month period were to customers who were new to iPad, the company said.

I went hands-on with Apple's M4 MacBook Air and the app performance blew me away

Table of Contents Table of Contents M4 MacBook Air M3 iPad Air Mac Studio Conclusion Apple is marching in with new products for the spring, including a new MacBook Air featuring the M4 chip, a new iPad Air, uniquely featuring the M3 chip, and a new Mac Studio desktop, with M4 Max and M3 Ultra chip options. While enthusiasts await the launch of the coveted M5 chip series devices, including the MacBook Pro and iPad Pro later this year- the tech brand has brought in the expected refresh of its early-year devices. Notably, the MacBook Air and iPad Air see yearly upgrades, while the Mac Studio is getting its first revamp since 2023. While largely maintaining their external designs, most changes to the devices can be found by way of hardware and AI support upgrades. Apple is looking to showcase Apple Intelligence app integration as functional and accessible to users. The brand is competing on the market with many on-device AI experiences, such as Microsoft's Copilot+ PCs and Chromebooks inundated with Google Gemini. Recommended Videos The MacBook Air starts at $1,000, while the iPad Air at $600, and the Mac Studio at $2,000, with several configurations priced much higher. Notably, the most expensive, highest-configured Mac Studio is priced at an eye-watering $14,000. I got to view and test demos of several apps and programs on the 2025 MacBook Air, iPad Air, and Mac Studio and was impressed with the power behind the M4 and M3 series chips. The devices show their immense prowess, especially at creative tasks, from enthusiast level to professional tier. The lineup presents something for everyone. M4 MacBook Air The 2025 MacBook Air is available in the customary 13-inch and 15-inch Liquid Retina display options. Apple hasn't made many major changes to the external design of the laptop. Many staple features remain, including the MagSafe 3 charging port, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. The laptop supports two 6K external displays, in addition to the built-in display. However, the brand has introduced a new Sky Blue colorway, discontinuing its Space Gray color in the process. Upon first glance in rather bright lighting, the Sky Blue has a silverish tone that might not be that distinguishable from the Silver color option MacBook Air. It is a trick of the light blue that is rather beautiful when you notice it, more likely in the shadows. It's kind of like how Starlight and Silver can look similar in certain lighting, and Midnight has a deep blue undertone. With that said, the other color options are Starlight, Midnight, and Silver. If I had to choose a color, it would likely be Starlight. The yellow background was rather striking, and I think you'd be able to have fun with custom backgrounds and the sparkling gold tone. Having handled the smaller, 13-inch MacBook Air models for my hands-on, the device was true to its name at 2.7 pounds. Holding the laptops and moving them around didn't feel bulky or meddlesome. The device maintains a petite 0.44-inch frame, one of the slimmest on the market. The larger 15-inch model wasn't available for handling- only a visual demo. But it remains as slim as the previous Air model with a height of 0.45 inches, and a weight of 3.3 pounds. The size difference between the two models would be notable for different consumers. I'm partial to the smaller configurations of all MacBook models, as an owner of a much older 13-inch MacBook Pro. Though the devices were wiped for fingerprints between each user, I didn't find them getting scuffed as I handled them. Keeping in mind that older MacBook Air models were fingerprint magnets until Apple implemented an anodization seal. The Sky Blue was virtually devoid of fingerprints, and you should feel confident selecting Midnight without immediately soiling it with the oils of your paws. Apple demoed several apps and features on the 15-inch MacBook Air, including the 12-megapixel Center Stage camera with 1080p video quality, in conjunction with the Pixelmator Pro app. Another demo showcased the MacOS Sequoia feature, Window Tiling. The notetaking app, Bear includes Apple Intelligence integration. Apple noted that the popular Blender 3D assets app is five times faster on the M4 MacBook Air than on the M1 model. Finally, the brand demoed the open-world RPG game Wuthering Waves on the MacBook Air running at particularly high frame rates and the game flowed smoothly after all of the previous demos with no noticeable lagging and no flubs in the presentations. All functions demoed were done on battery power only with no performance lost. Apple indicated the device essentially reached its maximum in terms of thermal performance and power efficiency, having been run all day. Notably, the 2025 MacBook Air is the first that can configure up to 32GB of memory. Both models support up to 18 hours of battery life. M3 iPad Air The iPad Air includes the M3 chip to improve its graphics performance and the AI capabilities of Apple Intelligence for the brand's notable tablet. The iPad Air is available in 11-inch and 13-inch Liquid Retina display options- and is paired with the Magic Keyboard. The accessory is known for its floating design and is updated with a larger trackpad and a 14-key function row. Rounding out the design is a USB-C connectivity port and four color schemes, Blue, Purple, Starlight, and Space Gray. As someone who is not a tablet aficionado, I was impressed by the app support and the power behind its various functionalities, in addition to the ease of use and the practicality of what would likely be challenging tasks in different programs. Apple demoed some interesting third-party apps to showcase the power of the M3 chip. The Detail: Video Editor is an AI-based video workflow app that includes Apple Intelligence integration to simplify functions in the production software. The app can tap to sync with other Apple products like an iPhone to set up an interview-style feed. From your point-of-view as the interviewer, you have the main controls on your end and the interviewee can see you, and whatever you project to them from their device, such as questions or a script. You can tap to remove the background around yourself in the video feed for a more seamless stream. You can also move your feed to any part of the screen. This uses the M3 neural engine to make the changes immediately. You can add text by engaging the keyboard or using the Writing Tools Apple Intelligence feature, for assistance. Similarly, you can move text around the screen to your preference. After filming you can transcribe and timestamp the audio for viewers. The M3 neural engine also assists in easily editing content by identifying silent pauses in both audio and video so you can edit out those portions with a tap. Playback should be continuous moving forward. Once complete, you can export projects in 4K video, airdropping them to yourself. The demo was notably done in landscape mode; however, you can change the setting to portrait mode, maintaining all of the captions in the video, which you can adjust to the new viewing mode. Another demo showed how you can use the Writing Tools Apple intelligence feature within the Notes app, to create an AI image of a mountain scene based on a rudimentary sketch. You can draw your sketch, use an Apple Pencil to circle the sketch and activate the prompt. Then you select among the generated images for the one you want to insert into the Notes app. The demo situation was planning a weekend hiking trip to Switzerland. After that, you can use Writing Tools in conjunction with ChatGPT to generate a list of items you should pack for the trip. The feature reminds me of Google's AI tool called Whisk, which uses other images as the base prompt. In a similar fashion, the tool is intended to use more contextual prompts to create the desired AI results. Further showing the power of the M3 chip, Apple demoed an app called Uniform. It allows you to create 3D objects on the iPad. In the demo they quickly created a pawn chess piece in a few simple moves, using an Apple Pencil for design accuracy. Apple indicated that the app is beneficial for students and enthusiasts, who might not have as much experience developing 3D shapes. The iPad Air M3 chip works in tandem with its GPU, promoting the real-time rendering of each shape. For further practical use, Apple suggested that users could proceed with 3D printing designs directly from the iPad Air. Mac Studio Apple called the latest Mac Studio version its most powerful Mac while demoing the desktop in different situations. The PC can be configured in M4 Max and M3 Ultra chip options and is ideal for conditions that require high visual processing. It includes Thunderbolt 5 ports among its outputs. While the M4 Max supports up to five displays, the demo included three connected displays and three additional peripherals to showcase a tool called Autodesk Flame, which is typically used for Hollywood visual effects. The M4 Max Mac Studio includes a 14-core CPU and 32-core GPU. Other hardware support includes 36GB of unified memory and 512GB of SSD storage. While Apple hosted a more modest setup for the M3 Ultra Mac Studio, it supports up to eight displays. The demo showcased a large language model (LLM) developing a Python script for a creative project. Apple noted that what would typically be a day's work in manual scripting was completed in seconds. Meanwhile, there was a demo of a pre-release version of Cyberpunk 2077 for Mac running in the background, while the LLM was computing in the foreground- as the game was previously presented. Demonstrating the power of the M3 Ultra, Apple noted that the popular video game is one of the most graphically demanding games currently on the market, to run alongside an equally demanding LLM. Cyberpunk 2077 for Mac will be available later this year. The M3 Ultra includes a 28-core CPU and 60-core GPU. Other hardware support includes 96GB of unified memory and 1TB of SSD storage. Conclusion It is very simple. Many brands want consumers to buy AI PCs, and Apple is no different. However, Apple having a distinctive app ecosystem may give it an edge to easily integrate its Apple Intelligence AI system across many third-party apps, as well as across macOS, iPadOS, and iOS at large. This is one of the primary takeaways I got from the MacBook Air, iPad Air, and Mac Studio demos. I was impressed by the power of the hardware, but what is often missing from AI, is a reason for the everyday user to integrate it into their everyday tasks. Many of the demos I saw gave a clearer picture of what a high-powered AI device can offer a regular user. While the Mac Studio may be more novelty, accessibility is exactly what most MacBook Air and iPad Air users are looking for in a daily driver. From my limited time with the devices, I think they stand to be solid options.

The new iPad Air with M3 is here - with an updated Magic Keyboard to match

Apple just quietly dropped a new iPad Air, now powered by the company's M3 chip and poised for Apple Intelligence. The company preempted the announcement with a Tim Cook tweet yesterday, when the Apple CEO posted a video on X (formerly known as Twitter) teasing a new product from its "Air" line and the words "This week." The new iPad Air with the M3 chip arrives to dethrone the previous M2 iPad Air. Its processing speed is nearly double that of Apple's M1 processor and up to 3.5 times faster than that of the A14 Bionic processor. Also: This $70-off iPad deal is a steal -- and it's the model I recommend to most people The Apple silicon M3 chip also gives the iPad Air a 9-core GPU, offering users enhanced graphics performance for tasks like graphically demanding games and content creation. The M3 offers 40% faster graphic processing than the M1 and supports ray tracing, dynamic caching, and hardware-accelerated shading, resulting in more realistic renderings during gaming experiences and AI workflows. "iPad Air is so popular because of its unmatched combination of powerful performance, portability, and support for advanced accessories, all at an affordable price," said Bob Borchers, Apple's vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. "For everyone from college students taking notes with Apple Pencil Pro to travelers and content creators who need powerful productivity on the go, iPad Air with M3, Apple Intelligence, and the new Magic Keyboard take versatility and value to the next level." Also: Why I pick this ultraportable Lenovo tablet over the iPad for multimedia consumption While the M1 chip is compatible with Apple Intelligence, the new iPad Air's M3 processor is a considerable upgrade that will reflect in the iPad's support of Apple's AI tools. The M3's neural engine is 60% faster than the one in the M1 processor, which will make running Apple Intelligence tools like Clean Up in Photos, Image Wand in Notes, Siri, and Writing Tools run smoother and faster. The 2025 iPad Air will be available in two sizes beginning on March 12: an 11-inch model starting at $599 and a 13-inch model starting at $799. Both models will be available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations. The new iPad Air is also compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro and the Apple Pencil. Also: The iPad I bring with me everywhere is not the Pro or Air model Apple also introduced a new, more affordable Magic Keyboard for iPad Air. This new Magic Keyboard features a larger trackpad, a 14-key function row, and a USB-C connector. The Magic Keyboard for iPad Air is available for both 11- and 13-inch models and is open for pre-order today. It will be generally available on March 12, starting at $269. Before this launch, Apple's Magic Keyboard was built for the iPad Pro and M2 iPad Air, and its full price is $349. Though it is currently discounted to $269, the same price (temporarily) as the new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air. More quietly than the iPad Air's announcement, Apple also updated its iPad base model to launch the 11th-generation iPad. This new iPad will be available on March 12, starting at $349, though it is open for pre-order now. Unlike the iPad Air, the 11th-generation iPad won't support Apple Intelligence, as it boasts an A16 Bionic chip. Apple Intelligence is only available on A17 Bionic chip devices and M1 and newer devices.

A new iPad and iPad Air are coming -- pre-order now

It's been less than a year since Apple debuted its 2024 iPad Air with M2 chip, and yet, they're already back with an upgraded model. On March 4, Apple introduced its latest model, the iPad Air with M3 chip. Apple CEO Tim Cook teased that a new product was coming earlier this week, and at Mashable we suspected it was the launch of the MacBook Air with M4 chip. However, it turns out we'll be waiting a little longer for that device. However, this drop is more than just the iPad Air. The base iPad model, which hadn't seen an update since 2022, is finally getting a chip and storage upgrade, too. Both iPads are available now for preorder at The Apple Store, with plans to ship as soon as March 12. The new iPad Air with M3 chip is a prime example of Apple doubling down on AI. With the upgraded chip, Apple Intelligence is being incorporated into every element of the tablet. In photos, users can now clean up unwanted distractions in the background. Plus, ChatGPT is built into Writing Tools and Siri, so users don't have to watch between applications. Apple seems to be getting around users privacy concerns with OpenAI. Users can use ChatGPT free and without an account, plus IP addresses are secured. With all these new capabilities, the iPad Air might as well be a laptop. Apple thought of that and also delivered a new Magic Keyboard for both the 11- and 13-inch iPad Air models. In addition to getting a new chip, the base Apple iPad, the most affordable model in the line-up, is also starting with double the storage. Now with an A16 chip, iPad users will notice a powerful boost in performance from the previous model's A14 chip. The 2022 model started at 64GB of storage, but the 2025 model now starts at 128GB of storage. However, it remains a great value, still starting at just $349. Both the iPad and iPad Air are available for preorder now and will be released March 12.

Looking for a cheaper iPad with AI? Try the M1 iPad Air

Apple on Tuesday introduced two new iPads: the iPad Air with the M3 chip and an updated entry-level iPad with the A16 chip. While some believed that the cheaper iPad would finally receive support for Apple Intelligence features, that didn't happen. But if you're looking for a more affordable iPad with AI capabilities, I recommend giving the M1 iPad Air a try. There's not much to say about the new iPad 11 except that it now has the A16 chip, while the previous version was powered by the A13 chip. According to Apple, the new iPad is 50% faster than its predecessor. Indeed, the chip is faster and has 6GB of RAM instead of 4GB. But even so, the A16 chip can't run Apple Intelligence features. This was a real letdown for customers who had been waiting a long time to upgrade their iPad, but didn't want to spend a lot of money on a brand new iPad Air or iPad Pro just to get access to Apple's latest AI features. While the iPad 11 costs $349, the recently announced iPad Air with the M3 chip starts at $599, while the iPad mini 7 costs $499 in its base version. So what's the best option for buying a new iPad with Apple Intelligence without spending a lot of money? I'd say the M1 iPad Air. M1 iPad Air, also known as the 5th generation iPad Air, was launched in 2022. Apple no longer sells it officially, but you can still find the M1 iPad Air for much lower prices in some stores, especially if you're willing to buy a refurbished model. This iPad is, in many ways (perhaps all of them), better than the new iPad 11 announced today. And here's why. Both have an 11-inch LCD display, but the panel on the M1 iPad Air is more advanced with a wide P3 color gamut and anti-reflective coating, while the iPad 11's display is limited to sRGB colors and has non-laminated glass, which is much more susceptible to glare. The 5th generation iPad Air is also thinner and lighter than iPad 11. It's 6.1 mm thick and 461 grams versus 7 mm and 477 grams, respectively. But what makes the M1 iPad Air unbeatable is, well, the M1 chip. M1 was the first Apple Silicon chip designed specifically for the Mac and then put into iPads. It has an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, while the A16 chip in the iPad 11 has a 5-core CPU and a 4-core GPU. What does that mean? The old iPad Air is faster than the new iPad 11. Benchmark tests show that M1 is around 30% faster than the A16 Bionic chip (keep in mind that the comparison is based on the iPhone 15 chip, which has an additional CPU and GPU core compared to the chip in the iPad 11). The M1 also has 8GB of RAM, which is better for multitasking and AI tasks. Because of this, the M1 iPad Air supports all the features of Apple Intelligence, as well as features such as Stage Manager for using multiple app windows simultaneously and an external monitor with the iPad. iPad 11 supports none of these features. The 5th generation iPad Air also has a USB-C 3.1 port with speeds of up to 10 Gbps, while the USB-C 2.0 port on the iPad 11 is limited to 480 Mbps. This means that transferring files between the iPad and an external device (such as a camera) is much slower on the iPad 11. The Air is also compatible with Apple Pencil 2, which has more features than the USB-C Apple Pencil for iPad 11. In short, these are the advantages of the 5th generation iPad Air over the iPad 11: As a counterpoint, iPad 11 has only one advantage over the iPad Air launched in 2022, and that's the fact that it starts with 128GB of storage, while the M1 Air starts with 64GB. If you just want an iPad to watch videos and read, it might be worth saving a few dollars and buying the new entry-level model for just $349. Of course, students can get it for even less from Apple's educational store, so that's something to consider. But if you want access to the latest iPadOS features and are looking for a laptop replacement, the M1 iPad Air is certainly a better deal. Even today, the M1 chip can handle the heaviest tasks and games with ease, and it runs all the same software features as the latest iPads. Apple sells the refurbished M1 iPad Air for $379 in its 64GB version. Apple Certified Refurbished Products are pre-owned products that undergo Apple's stringent refurbishment process prior to being offered for sale. Refurbished units are shipped in a special box with original accessories. Refurbished products also get Apple's 1-year warranty. What do you think? Which iPad would you choose? Let me know in the comments section below.

Apple's New iPad Says "No" to AI

We're knee-deep in the era of "AI everything." As a result, most new devices boast some kind of AI functionality. But the new 11th Gen iPad is an odd exception. It's the only current-gen Apple device that lacks Apple Intelligence -- an unexpected shortcoming that's notable from a cultural standpoint, but largely inconsequential for the average customer. Apple's 11th Gen iPad announcement was accompanied by an M3 iPad Air reveal The new iPad Air starts at $600, making it nearly twice the price of the new base-model iPad. A Powerful, Slightly Old, Binned Chipset Last year's iPad Pro served as the introduction for Apple's M4 desktop-class processor. It was an unprecedented flex that furthered the iPad's standing as an overpowered, cutting-edge product. However, the new 11th Gen iPad uses a less impressive A16 processor. This three-year-old chipset contains just 6GB of RAM and is therefore incapable of running Apple Intelligence. It's also the least powerful chipset of any current-generation iPad model. The most recent iPad Mini, released in late 2024, uses an A17 processor, while the iPad Air and iPad Pro are loaded with fancy desktop-class M-series chips. And, notably, this is a binned or "downgraded" version of the A16. The original A16 featured a 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU, while this version has just 5 CPU cores and 4 GPU cores. So, the 2025 iPad is less powerful than the 2022 iPhone 14 Pro, which is an odd thing to think about. I'm not saying that the new iPad is "slow" or "bad." A three-year-old A16 with a few missing cores is still a very competent and powerful platform. It's better than what you'll find in Android tablets around this price range, and it's 50% faster than the 10th Gen iPad's A13 chipset. I've always advocated for the base-model iPad. It's powerful, it supports Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard accessories, and it's relatively affordable. I'm very confused by Apple's choice in processor, which totally defies the company's push for AI (and is somewhat incongruous with the iPad lineup as a whole), but I really have nothing to complain about. At $350, Apple is offering 50% faster performance than the previous base-model of iPad, plus double the storage. The price-to-performance ratio here is unbeatable. iPad 11th Generation The 11th Gen iPad is a colorful and versatile tablet with a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, a powerful A16 chip, and twice the base storage of the previous model. It supports Apple Pencil, Magic Keyboard Folio, and optional add-on 5G connectivity. Buy at Apple Who Cares About Apple Intelligence? As for the Apple Intelligence thing -- well, does anyone actually care about Apple Intelligence? If someone wants to argue in favor of private, local AI capabilities or future-proofing, I'm all for it. But do iPad owners need on-device text generation or nonsensical notification summaries? And of those who care about AI, how many will actually opt for Apple Intelligence over an app like ChatGPT or Perplexity? Most people use tablets to stream movies, play games, or take video calls, so on-device generative AI is far from a necessity. I mean, Genmoji might be an exception because it's a fun thing for kids, but I doubt that too many parents are wringing their hands like, "oh, this iPad doesn't support Genmoji, I guess I'll buy the iPad Air instead!" Apple's decision to omit AI from the 11th Gen iPad is probably a strategic move. You know, an upsell tactic. But I'm not sure how well this tactic will work outside of brick and mortar stores. A sales rep might convince someone to buy an iPad Air by waving Apple Intelligence in their face, but online shoppers may never know the difference. Apple's landing page for the new iPad doesn't press the issue at all. In fact, the only mention of Apple Intelligence is in a comparison chart at the bottom of the page. The new 11th Gen iPad is available for pre-order today with prices starting at $350. Orders begin shipping March 12th. Note that the Apple Store will provide a discount if you trade in an old device, regardless of whether that device was made by Apple. Source: Apple

Should you buy M3 iPad Air? Here are the best new features, specs, pricing, and more

Apple just quietly dropped a new iPad Air, now powered by the company's M3 chip and poised for Apple Intelligence. The company preempted the announcement with a Tim Cook post, when the Apple CEO posted a video on X (formerly known as Twitter) teasing a new product from its "Air" line and the words "This week." The new iPad Air with the M3 chip arrives to dethrone the previous M2 iPad Air. Its processing speed is nearly double that of Apple's M1 processor and up to 3.5 times faster than that of the A14 Bionic processor. Also: This $70-off iPad deal is a steal -- and it's the model I recommend to most people The Apple silicon M3 chip also gives the iPad Air a 9-core GPU, offering users enhanced graphics performance for tasks like graphically demanding games and content creation. The M3 offers 40% faster graphic processing than the M1 and supports ray tracing, dynamic caching, and hardware-accelerated shading, resulting in more realistic renderings during gaming experiences and AI workflows. "iPad Air is so popular because of its unmatched combination of powerful performance, portability, and support for advanced accessories, all at an affordable price," said Bob Borchers, Apple's vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing. "For everyone from college students taking notes with Apple Pencil Pro to travelers and content creators who need powerful productivity on the go, iPad Air with M3, Apple Intelligence, and the new Magic Keyboard take versatility and value to the next level." Also: Why I pick this ultraportable Lenovo tablet over the iPad for multimedia consumption While the M1 chip is compatible with Apple Intelligence, the new iPad Air's M3 processor is a considerable upgrade that will reflect in the iPad's support of Apple's AI tools. The M3's neural engine is 60% faster than the one in the M1 processor, which will make running Apple Intelligence tools like Clean Up in Photos, Image Wand in Notes, Siri, and Writing Tools run smoother and faster. The 2025 iPad Air will be available in two sizes beginning on March 12: an 11-inch model starting at $599 and a 13-inch model starting at $799. Both models will be available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations. The new iPad Air is also compatible with the Apple Pencil Pro and the Apple Pencil. Also: The iPad I bring with me everywhere is not the Pro or Air model Apple also introduced a new, more affordable Magic Keyboard for iPad Air. This new Magic Keyboard features a larger trackpad, a 14-key function row, and a USB-C connector. The Magic Keyboard for iPad Air is available for both 11- and 13-inch models and is open for pre-order today. It will be generally available on March 12, starting at $269. Before this launch, Apple's Magic Keyboard was built for the iPad Pro and M2 iPad Air, and its full price is $349. Though it is currently discounted to $269, the same price (temporarily) as the new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air. More quietly than the iPad Air's announcement, Apple also updated its iPad base model to launch the 11th-generation iPad. This new iPad will be available on March 12, starting at $349, though it is open for pre-order now. Unlike the iPad Air, the 11th-generation iPad won't support Apple Intelligence, as it boasts an A16 Bionic chip. Apple Intelligence is only available on A17 Bionic chip devices and M1 and newer devices.

Apple's Newest iPad Model Still Lacks Support for Apple Intelligence Features - Phandroid

Apple recently announced the launch of a couple of new iPad models, which include the new M3-powered iPad Air, as well as the more affordable 11th-generation iPad, which starts at just $349. This continues the trend of Apple's base iPad model being the most budget-friendly way to get into its software ecosystem, with decent performance and specs to boost. READ: Meet the NXTPAPER 11 Plus, TCL's Newest Tablet Despite being a newly-launched device however, the iPad 11 still lacks support for Apple Intelligence, which in a way serves as a reminder from Apple that you didn't spend enough to get those premium AI features, some of which are still not available despite big promises from Apple a year ago. That's because the iPad 11 only comes with the Apple A16 chip and 4GB of RAM, while Apple Intelligence requires - at the very least - an A17 Pro chipset and 8GB of RAM. Of course given the state that Apple Intelligence is currently in, we wouldn't blame most consumers who don't see Apple's AI-based software features as much of a priority, especially when choosing a device to spend their money on. READ: You Can Now Buy a "De-Googled" Version of the Pixel Tablet At its core however, you're still getting a capable tablet with the iPad 11 - there's a sharp display resolution of 1640 x 2360 pixels, double the storage this time at 128GB for the base model, 4K video recording, and decent battery capacity at 28.93 Wh. It's probably safe to say that you're getting a lot of iPad for less than usual, as long as AI isn't a dealbreaker for you.

What Apple has done with the new iPad isn't very smart

Table of Contents Table of Contents What happened? What's wrong? This week, Apple introduced the iPad Air (2025). However, less attention was given to a new version of the regular iPad, which was also announced. If you missed this additional news, that's understandable. This latest version wasn't so much announced as it simply appeared on the Apple online store. The 11th-generation iPad wasn't even worthy of a press release, which says a lot. Even the latest iPad mini, another tablet Apple hasn't shown much love in recent years, received a press release when it was announced in October. Recommended Videos Why is there so much missing love for the regular iPad? Why should would-be buyers care? What happened? Before getting started, let's briefly look at the iPad (2025) and see how it differs from the previous model, which was released in 2022. The most significant improvement from one version to the next is the introduction of an A16 chip on the new model. This is a jump from the previous version's A14 Bionic chip, but, and this is key, it is not as big of a leap as you might expect. The A16 chip is a less advanced version of the A16 Bionic chip found in the iPhone Pro 14 series and the regular iPhone 15 models. It features a 5-core CPU and a 4-core GPU, one fewer core than the A16 Bionic. On the positive side, the newer iPad features a slightly larger display and increased storage options. Notably, the entry-level version now offers 128GB of storage instead of 64GB, all for the same price of $349. This is particularly impressive considering the original iPad, released in 2010, was priced at $499 for just 16GB of storage, which would be nearly $730 when adjusted for inflation in 2025. What's wrong? My beef with the new iPad has nothing to do with price, and honestly, I'm not inclined to quibble with Apple for including an A16 chipset instead of an A16 Bionic chipset. Apple loses me in the tablet's lack of design changes and a key feature omission. Apple was once regarded as one of the leading technology companies in mobile product design innovation. Many people felt excited when devices like the iPhone 4 and iPhone X were released, for example, showcasing significant design changes. Similarly, the first iPad Air was celebrated for its slender body, and no doubt, so will the first iPhone Air when it's revealed later this year. What did we get with the iPad (2025)? It features the same design as the model released in 2022. Surprisingly, in 2.5 years, Apple couldn't even introduce a subtle design tweak to its entry-level tablet or change the color options. While the iPad Air (2025) also looks identical to its predecessor, a point I also find questionable, it's worth noting that these tablets were launched only 10 months apart, making the lack of change seem a bit less concerning. And then there's the lack of Apple Intelligence on the new iPad. Remember Apple Intelligence, the focus of nearly every Apple ad since last summer? Sure, you can argue that most folks buying an entry-level iPad don't want or need AI. But, when you're Apple, and you've fallen so far behind others on the AI front (hi, Gemini), doesn't it make sense to get the heavily advertised feature on as many products as possible? Even the recently released budget iPhone 16e has Apple Intelligence. This means the iPad (2025) joins the 2023 iPhone 15 as the only two Apple handsets on the market without the company's most important software product in years. Including the A16 chip in the new iPad seems illogical. Ideally, the new iPad should have the minimum requirements for Apple Intelligence, which includes an A17 Pro chip and 8GB of RAM. However, it comes with the A16 chip and, although not yet confirmed, likely only 4GB of RAM. Doesn't that seem inconsistent? Many folks, including some here at Digital Trends, will say emphatically that Apple's improvements to the newest iPad (better chip, more storage) make it an excellent entry-level tablet. I'd say Apple could have done better, which seems to be a recurring theme for the company in recent years: weird misses and perhaps even coasting along. Besides releasing a new tablet that doesn't support Apple's new AI features, it released an iPhone 16e with most (but not all) of the features as a 2022 iPhone 14. It also opted not to release a new Apple Watch Ultra, leaving the more affordable Apple Watch Series 10 with a better chip. Should I go on? The iPad (2025) is now available for pre-order. It arrives on March 12.