Apple just dropped some exciting news for iPad fans – the new iPad Air featuring the powerful M3 chip will be available in two sizes starting March 12th. The 11-inch model will start at $599 while the larger 13-inch version will start at $799, making these powerful tablets more accessible than previous generations.
Along with the updated iPad Air, Apple announced a redesigned Magic Keyboard that works with the new tablets. The keyboard is priced at $269 for the 11-inch version and $319 for the 13-inch model. This new accessory brings improved functionality for those who use their iPad for productivity and creative work.
The combination of the M3 chip and updated accessories shows Apple’s commitment to improving the iPad experience. These updates make the iPad Air an even more compelling option if you’re looking for a device that bridges the gap between a tablet and laptop.
Apple Expands the iPad Lineup With Major Upgrades
Apple has unveiled a significant refresh to its iPad lineup, introducing a more powerful iPad Air, a redesigned Magic Keyboard, and an upgraded base iPad. With these changes, Apple is refining the iPad experience for both casual users and professionals, delivering better performance, more screen size options, and a more intuitive accessory ecosystem.
Let’s take a closer look at what these new devices bring to the table.
iPad Air Gets a Performance Boost With M3
The iPad Air now features Apple’s M3 chip, marking a major step forward in performance. Previously powered by the M1, the jump to M3 offers:
- Up to 35% faster CPU performance for everyday tasks and multitasking
- A 40% boost in graphics performance, supporting more complex workloads
- Hardware-accelerated ray tracing, improving lighting, shadows, and reflections in high-end games
- A stronger Neural Engine, enabling better on-device AI processing
This means the iPad Air can now handle more demanding applications, from video editing and 3D modeling to AI-enhanced workflows.
Two Sizes: 11-inch and 13-inch
For the first time, the iPad Air comes in two display sizes:
- 11-inch for portability and ease of use
- 13-inch for those who want a larger canvas for productivity and creativity
This move makes the iPad Air a more viable laptop alternative, especially when paired with the new Magic Keyboard.
A Redesigned Magic Keyboard With More Features
Apple has overhauled the Magic Keyboard to improve usability while making it more affordable. Key enhancements include:
- A larger, more responsive trackpad, giving users better control over the cursor
- A 14-key function row, allowing quick access to volume, brightness, and other system settings
- A redesigned aluminum hinge, making it sturdier and lighter
- Lower pricing, making it a more accessible accessory
These improvements bring the Magic Keyboard closer to a true laptop experience, making the iPad Air feel like a MacBook alternative.
Base iPad (11th Gen) Gets an A16 Chip and More Storage
Apple also introduced a refreshed entry-level iPad, featuring:
- An A16 Bionic chip, delivering 30% faster performance over the previous generation
- 128GB base storage, doubling the previous model’s 64GB
- Support for Apple Pencil (USB-C) and Magic Keyboard Folio
The design remains unchanged, keeping the 10.9-inch display, USB-C port, and landscape front camera.
However, unlike the iPad Air and iPad Pro, the base iPad does not support Apple Intelligence, Apple’s new AI-driven features.
How Do These iPads Compare?
To help you decide which iPad is right for you, here’s a breakdown of how the new models stack up:
| Feature | iPad Air (M3, 2025) | iPad (11th Gen, 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | M3 (8-core CPU, 9-core GPU) | A16 Bionic (6-core CPU, 5-core GPU) |
| Display | 11-inch / 13-inch Liquid Retina | 10.9-inch Liquid Retina |
| Base Storage | 128GB | 128GB |
| Apple Pencil Support | Apple Pencil Pro, USB-C | Apple Pencil (USB-C) |
| Magic Keyboard Support | New Magic Keyboard | Magic Keyboard Folio |
| Apple Intelligence Support | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Price | $599 (11-inch) / $799 (13-inch) | $349 |
For power users, creatives, and AI-driven workflows, the iPad Air with M3 is the better choice.
For students and casual users, the base iPad (11th Gen) offers a solid experience at a lower cost.
Final Thoughts: A More Capable iPad Lineup
Apple’s latest iPad updates offer something for everyone:
- The M3 iPad Air makes high-end performance more accessible
- The new Magic Keyboard transforms the iPad Air into a true laptop alternative
- The base iPad (11th Gen) gets more storage and a performance boost, making it an even better budget option
With two iPad Air sizes, a more affordable Magic Keyboard, and a stronger entry-level iPad, Apple is shaping the future of tablets to be more versatile and user-friendly than ever before.
Key Takeaways
- The new iPad Air with M3 chip comes in 11-inch ($599) and 13-inch ($799) models available March 12th.
- Apple’s redesigned Magic Keyboard costs $269 for the 11-inch version and $319 for the 13-inch version.
- These updates make the iPad Air more powerful and versatile for both creative and productivity tasks.
Revealing the New iPad Air
Apple has refreshed its iPad Air lineup with significant improvements to both internal hardware and external features. The new iPad Air comes in two sizes and brings professional-level capabilities to Apple’s mid-range tablet offering.
Design and Display Enhancements
The new iPad Air now comes in two size options: an 11-inch model and a larger 13-inch variant. This marks the first time Apple has offered the Air in a larger size format, giving you more screen real estate for productivity and creative work.
Both models maintain the flat-edge design language of recent Apple products. The color options include a sleek Blue finish, adding to Apple’s signature aesthetic appeal.
The displays continue to use Apple’s Liquid Retina technology, offering you crisp visuals and accurate color reproduction. The bezels remain slim, maximizing the screen-to-body ratio for an immersive viewing experience.
Pricing remains consistent with previous generations, with the 11-inch model starting at $599 in the United States. The larger 13-inch model starts at $799, making it more affordable than the iPad Pro series with similar screen size.
Performance and Hardware Upgrades
The biggest upgrade comes in processing power, with Apple equipping the new iPad Air with the powerful M3 chip. This marks a significant performance boost over the previous generation’s M1 processor.
The M3 chip brings desktop-class performance to the mid-range iPad, enabling you to handle demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and complex graphics work without slowdowns. This places the Air much closer to Pro-level performance than ever before.
Storage configurations start at 128GB for both models, giving you ample space for apps and files. Apple has maintained its typical storage tier options for those who need more capacity.
Battery life continues to be impressive, with Apple promising all-day usage on a single charge. The iPad Air supports USB-C connectivity, allowing you to connect various peripherals and external displays.
Software Features and Capabilities
The new iPad Air runs the latest iPadOS, bringing you multitasking capabilities that help bridge the gap between tablet and laptop functionality. Features like Stage Manager let you organize multiple app windows simultaneously.
Apple Pencil compatibility continues, making the iPad Air an excellent choice for artists, designers, and note-takers. The tablet works with the latest Apple Pencil models, offering precision input for creative work.
The iPad Air also supports the new Magic Keyboard, which has been redesigned specifically for these models. This keyboard accessory transforms your iPad into a laptop-like device with a trackpad for more precise cursor control.
For professionals, iPadOS continues to offer desktop-class apps like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro, optimized for touch interfaces. These applications take full advantage of the M3 chip’s capabilities, giving you professional tools in a portable device.
Introducing the New Magic Keyboard
Apple has released an upgraded Magic Keyboard alongside the new iPad Air models. The redesigned accessory offers improved functionality while maintaining a sleek design that complements the latest iPads.
Compatibility and Design
The new Magic Keyboard is specifically designed for the 2025 iPad Air models, available in both 11-inch and 13-inch sizes. Unlike previous versions, this keyboard is only available in white, giving it a clean, modern aesthetic.
The design closely mirrors the functionality of the higher-end iPad Pro’s keyboard but comes at a more accessible price point. You’ll find the Magic Keyboard priced at $269 for the 11-inch model and $319 for the 13-inch version.
For educational institutions, special pricing is available, making it more affordable for schools and students to access this premium accessory.
Functional Improvements
The updated Magic Keyboard features several practical enhancements that improve your daily iPad experience. The keyboard provides a laptop-like typing experience with comfortable key travel and responsive feedback.
A built-in trackpad offers precise cursor control, eliminating the need to constantly touch the screen. This significantly enhances your productivity when working on documents or spreadsheets.
The floating design allows you to adjust your iPad to the perfect viewing angle, making it versatile for different use cases—from typing emails to watching videos or making video calls.
The keyboard connects magnetically and charges through the iPad, eliminating the need for separate charging cables or batteries. This streamlined approach keeps your workspace clean and minimizes cable clutter.
Base iPad Price Changes
Apple has adjusted the pricing structure for the base iPad model, making it more affordable while positioning it clearly in relation to the new iPad Air models. These changes affect both buying decisions and the overall tablet market positioning.
Comparative Price Analysis
The base iPad (11th generation) now starts at $349, marking a significant price reduction from previous models. This positions it as the clear entry-level option in Apple’s tablet lineup.
By comparison, the new M3-powered iPad Air models start at $599 for the 11-inch version and $799 for the 13-inch version. This creates a $250 price gap between the base iPad and the smallest iPad Air.
The pricing strategy creates distinct tiers in Apple’s tablet ecosystem:
- Base iPad: $349 (entry-level)
- iPad Air 11-inch: $599 (mid-range)
- iPad Air 13-inch: $799 (upper mid-range)
- iPad Pro models: Higher price points (premium)
Implications for Consumers
The lower price point makes the base iPad more accessible to budget-conscious consumers, students, and educational institutions. You can now enter the iPad ecosystem at a more affordable price without sacrificing the core iPad experience.
This price reduction may influence your buying decision if you’ve been hesitating between an iPad or a competitor’s tablet. The $349 price tag makes the base iPad more competitive against Android alternatives.
For educational users, the new pricing is particularly significant. Schools and students can access Apple’s ecosystem and applications at a lower cost, potentially influencing institutional purchasing decisions.
If you’re considering whether to upgrade, the clearer price separation between models makes it easier to determine which iPad fits your needs and budget. The base iPad offers excellent value for casual users, while the M3-equipped Air models cater to those needing more power.
Market Expectations & Predictions
Apple’s new iPad lineup changes will affect both tech industry dynamics and consumer buying patterns. The pricing strategy and feature updates signal important shifts in Apple’s market approach.
Industry Impact
The introduction of the M3 chip in the iPad Air will likely prompt competitors to accelerate their processor development plans. This move positions Apple further ahead in the tablet performance race, especially for creative professionals and power users.
Other manufacturers may respond by focusing on lower price points since Apple continues to dominate the premium segment. The iPad Air with M3 sits in a strategic middle position between the base iPad and Pro models.
Supply chain partners will need to adjust production capabilities to accommodate the new lineup. Component manufacturers specializing in advanced display technology and precision keyboards will likely see increased demand.
Expect software developers to update applications to take advantage of the M3’s capabilities, particularly for AI and machine learning features.
Consumer Trends
You’ll notice shifting buying patterns as consumers evaluate the new iPad lineup. The base iPad’s increased storage provides better value, potentially attracting more budget-conscious buyers.
The new Magic Keyboard pricing—$269 for the 11-inch and $319 for the 13-inch models—may slow accessory adoption rates. Many users might delay keyboard purchases or seek third-party alternatives.
Education customers will likely respond positively to the special pricing options mentioned in Apple’s announcement. Schools may accelerate iPad deployments with the improved performance-to-price ratio.
The iPad Air starting at $599 continues to occupy the mid-range sweet spot. This price point appeals to prosumers who want premium features without the Pro model investment.
Availability and Release Details
Apple has announced that the new iPad Air with M3 chip will be available for pre-order starting today. The devices will reach customers beginning March 12, 2025.
The 11-inch iPad Air starts at $599, while the larger 13-inch model begins at $799. Both sizes come with 128GB of storage in the base configuration.
The redesigned Magic Keyboard for iPad Air is priced at $269 for the 11-inch model and $319 for the 13-inch version. This represents a more affordable option compared to previous Magic Keyboard models.
For education customers, Apple offers special pricing. Educational institutions can purchase the Magic Keyboard at reduced rates, making it more accessible for schools and universities.
The new iPad Air will be available in several color options including:
- Space Gray
- Starlight
- Blue
- Purple
You can purchase the new iPad Air through Apple’s website, the Apple Store app, or at physical Apple Store locations. Authorized Apple resellers will also carry the new devices.
The updated base iPad also follows the same release schedule, with pre-orders starting today and availability beginning March 12.
Delivery times may vary based on your location and the specific configuration you choose. Apple recommends placing pre-orders early to secure delivery on the release date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple’s latest iPad lineup comes with significant updates, new accessories, and various price points. Here are answers to common questions about the new devices to help you make an informed decision.
What are the starting prices for the latest iPad Air and base iPad models?
The new iPad Air starts at $599 for the 11-inch model, while the larger 13-inch version begins at $799. Adding 5G cellular connectivity will increase the price by $150 for either size option of the iPad Air.
The pricing structure has changed significantly with these new models. The iPad Pro now starts at $1000, creating a notable price gap between the Air and Pro models, with the Air positioned at $600 as the mid-tier option in Apple’s lineup.
Is the new iPad Air compatible with the previous generation Magic Keyboard accessories?
Yes, the new iPad Air maintains compatibility with previous generation Magic Keyboard accessories. This backward compatibility allows you to use your existing Magic Keyboard if you’re upgrading from an older iPad model.
The dimensions and connector positions have been designed to work with the previous generation accessories, saving you money if you already own these peripherals.
How does the new Magic Keyboard improve upon its predecessor for iPad users?
The redesigned Magic Keyboard for iPad features an elegant aluminum palm rest that enhances both durability and comfort during extended typing sessions. It delivers an improved typing experience while maintaining its sleek, portable design that complements the iPad’s premium feel.
The new Magic Keyboard maintains its pricing structure, starting at $299 for the smaller size and $349 for the larger version, the same price points as the 2020 model. The trackpad functionality continues to be a key feature, providing laptop-like navigation capabilities.
What key features distinguish the new base iPad from its predecessors?
The new base iPad offers improved processing power and better display technology compared to previous generations. Storage options have been expanded, giving you more choices for your specific needs.
Battery life has been optimized to support all-day use, making it more practical for work and school applications. The base iPad now supports more accessories, expanding its versatility for different use cases.
When can consumers expect the newly announced iPad models to be available for purchase?
The newly announced iPad models are available for pre-order now, with shipping expected to begin by late March 2025. Apple retail stores will have the devices in stock shortly after the official shipping date.
Online retailers and authorized Apple resellers will also begin carrying the new models around the same time. Supply constraints may affect initial availability, so pre-ordering is recommended if you want to receive your device as soon as possible.
What are the differences in specifications between the latest iPad Air and the new base iPad?
The iPad Air features a more powerful processor, making it suitable for demanding tasks like video editing and graphic design. Its display offers better color accuracy and brightness, which benefits creative professionals and media consumers.
The iPad Air includes more advanced camera systems for both photography and video conferencing compared to the base model. Storage options start higher on the Air, though you’ll pay a premium for these enhancements.
The base iPad has more modest specifications but still handles everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and video streaming with ease. For many users, the base iPad provides sufficient performance at a more accessible price point.
