Apple Launches New iPad Air with M3 Chip - Faster & More Powerful

Apple Unveils Updated iPad Air with M3 Chip

Apple has announced the release of new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models, powered by the M3 chip. Preorders for the updated devices begin on Tuesday, with official availability slated for March 12.

Pricing and Configuration Options

The 11-inch iPad Air is priced starting at $599, while the 13-inch version begins at $799. Customers can choose from four distinct color options: blue, purple, starlight, and space gray. Storage configurations include 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.

Performance Enhancements with M3

Although the new iPad Air supports Apple Intelligence, it does not incorporate the latest M4 chip. Nevertheless, Apple asserts that the iPad Air equipped with the M3 chip delivers performance gains of almost 2x when contrasted with the iPad Air featuring the M1 chip. Furthermore, it is reported to be up to 3.5 times faster than models utilizing the A14 Bionic.

It is important to note that Apple’s performance comparisons have been made against older iPad models, specifically excluding the iPad Air with the M2 chip released last year.

New Magic Keyboard Features

Alongside the new iPad Air, Apple is introducing a redesigned Magic Keyboard. This updated accessory boasts an expanded trackpad and a new 14-key function row for streamlined access to controls such as screen brightness and volume.

The Magic Keyboard connects magnetically via the Smart Connector, providing instant power and data transfer without requiring a Bluetooth connection. It also features a precision-machined aluminum hinge and a USB-C port for charging.

The new Magic Keyboard is available in white, with pricing starting at $269 for the 11-inch model and $319 for the 13-inch version.

Detailed Performance Metrics

Apple states that the iPad Air with M3 exhibits up to 35% faster performance in multithreaded CPU tasks compared to the iPad Air with M1. The device also incorporates a 9-core GPU, offering up to 40% faster graphics performance than its M1 predecessor.

Moreover, the Neural Engine within the M3 chip is reported to be up to 60% faster when handling AI-driven workloads in comparison to the M1 chip.

Updates to the Standard iPad

Apple has also refreshed the standard iPad, doubling the base storage capacity and integrating the A16 chip to enhance performance for everyday use. This new iPad with the A16 chip is nearly 30% faster than the previous generation.

Apple claims a 50% improvement in overall performance when comparing the new iPad to the model equipped with the A13 Bionic chip. The company further asserts that the A16 chip makes its new iPad up to 6 times faster than the leading Android tablet.

Official Statement

“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,” stated Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing, in an official press release.