Apple has launched a new, more powerful iPad Air featuring the M3 chip, designed for seamless integration with Apple Intelligence. This latest upgrade brings Apple’s advanced graphics architecture to the iPad Air for the first time, nearly doubling the speed of the M1 model and offering up to 3.5 times the performance of the A14 Bionic-powered version. With the M3, users can create content faster and enjoy smoother gameplay in demanding, graphics-intensive applications.
The iPad Air now comes in two sizes: an ultra-portable 11-inch model and a larger 13-inch version for expanded creativity and productivity. Both are available in four stylish finishes. Alongside the device, Apple has introduced a redesigned Magic Keyboard that enhances functionality. With iPadOS 18, support for Apple Intelligence, advanced cameras, and 5G connectivity, as well as compatibility with Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), the new iPad Air offers an unparalleled user experience.
Performance Boost with M3
The M3 chip in the iPad Air delivers significant performance improvements, catering to professionals, students, and creatives alike. Its 8-core CPU is 35% faster for multitasking than the M1, while the 9-core GPU brings up to 40% better graphics performance.
For the first time in an iPad Air, Apple has included support for dynamic caching, mesh shading, and ray tracing, making graphics rendering up to four times faster than in previous models. The Neural Engine in M3 is also 60% faster than in the M1, enhancing AI-driven features in iPadOS 18.
Apple Intelligence Integration
Built to leverage Apple Intelligence, the iPad Air introduces advanced AI-powered features such as the Clean Up tool in Photos for removing unwanted elements, Image Wand in Notes for enhancing sketches, and Genmoji for personalized emojis.
Siri has been upgraded to be more conversational and context-aware, allowing for a more intuitive user experience. Additionally, ChatGPT integration in Writing Tools and Siri provides seamless access to AI expertise while maintaining privacy safeguards.
Apple Intelligence ensures that most processing happens on-device for enhanced security. When more processing power is needed, Private Cloud Compute provides additional capabilities while keeping data secure and private.
Redesigned Magic Keyboard for iPad Air
The new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air enhances productivity with a larger trackpad, a 14-key function row for quick access to essential controls, and a premium aluminum hinge with a USB-C charging port.
It magnetically attaches to the iPad Air and connects instantly via the Smart Connector, eliminating the need for Bluetooth. The 11-inch model is priced at S$399, while the 13-inch version costs S$449.
Updated iPad with A16 Chip
Apple has also updated the standard iPad with the A16 chip, doubling its starting storage and boosting performance.
The A16 delivers a 30% speed increase over its predecessor and up to six times faster than the best-selling Android tablet.
iPadOS 18: Smarter and More Versatile
iPadOS 18 introduces a range of powerful new features, including:
● Math Notes in Calculator: Solve equations instantly using Apple Pencil.
● Smart Script in Notes: Improve handwriting and add space or typed text seamlessly.
● Audio Recording and Transcription: Capture and transcribe lectures with searchable transcripts.
● Customizable Home Screen and Control Center: Organize app icons and widgets, and access third-party controls more efficiently.
Eco-Friendly Design
Apple continues its commitment to sustainability with the new iPad Air and iPad. Each device features at least 30% recycled materials, including 100% recycled aluminum enclosures and rare earth elements in magnets. The packaging is now entirely fiber-based, bringing Apple closer to its goal of eliminating plastic packaging by the end of the year.
Pricing and Availability
Pre-orders for the new iPad Air with M3 start today, with availability beginning March 12. Pricing remains unchanged, with the 11-inch model starting at S$899 and the 13-inch model at S$1,199. Education pricing starts at S$819 and S$1,119, respectively.
The new iPad with A16 is also available for pre-order, starting at S$499 for the Wi-Fi model and S$729 for the Wi-Fi + Cellular version. Education pricing starts at S$469 and S$699, respectively.
The new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air and Magic Keyboard Folio for iPad are also available, with pricing starting at S$399 and S$379, respectively. Apple Pencil Pro is priced at S$199, while the Apple Pencil (USB-C) is available for S$119.
For more details and pre-order options, visit apple.com/sg/store.
