Apple Launches iPad Air with M3 Chip, Upgrades Entry-Level iPad

Apple has introduced updated versions of its iPad Air and entry-level iPad, aiming to boost sales after a decline in 2024. The iPad Air now features Apple’s powerful M3 chip, delivering faster performance and improved graphics, while the standard iPad gets a faster A16 chip and double the base storage.

iPad Air Gets a Major Performance Boost with M3 Chip

The latest iPad Air keeps the same 11-inch and 13-inch display options but now comes with Apple’s M3 processor, making it 34% faster than the previous M1 version. This upgrade enhances gaming and graphics-intensive tasks, thanks to hardware-accelerated ray tracing, which provides better lighting effects.

Both models support Apple Pencil, offer up to 10 hours of battery life, and feature Center Stage, which keeps users in the frame during video calls. The pricing remains unchanged at $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch version.

New Magic Keyboard Adds More Functionality

Apple is also introducing an updated Magic Keyboard for the iPad Air, now featuring a 14-key function row for easier access to shortcuts. The keyboard is priced at $269 for the 11-inch version and $319 for the 13-inch model.

Entry-Level iPad Gets More Storage and a Performance Upgrade

Apple’s standard iPad is also receiving an update, with twice the starting storage—jumping from 64GB to 128GB. It now runs on the A16 chip, which delivers 30% faster performance than its predecessor.

However, unlike the iPad Air, the entry-level iPad does not support Apple Intelligence, the company’s new AI-powered features. That’s because the A16 chip lacks the processing power required for AI-driven tasks. Despite that, the device still includes the Center Stage front camera and a 12MP rear camera, making it a solid choice for everyday use.

iPad Sales Declined in 2024, But Apple Sees Signs of Recovery

Apple’s iPad revenue dropped 6% in 2024, falling from $28.3 billion in 2023 to $26.6 billion. However, in Q1 2025, sales rebounded to $8.1 billion, up from $7 billion in the same period last year. The new iPad models could help Apple regain momentum, especially as iPhone sales have remained flat year-over-year.

Availability and Release Date

Both the iPad Air and entry-level iPad are available for preorder now and will officially launch on March 12.

With these updates, Apple is focusing on better performance, increased storage, and AI-driven features, aiming to make its iPads more appealing to a wide range of users.

Also Read: Apple iPhone 16e Launched: Affordable Price, Powerful Features