Everything you need to know about Apple’s new iPad Air with M3

Apple has introduced the new iPad Air with M3, complete with Apple Intelligence capabilities, iPadOS 18, an advanced graphics architecture and more—here’s everything you need to know about.

Just about a fortnight after the iPhone 16e launch, Apple dropped its latest edition of the iPad Air, powered by the M3 chip. As with other recent Apple devices, this new iPad Air was built with Apple Intelligence in mind and will give users full access to its extensive suite of features such as Image Playground, Image Wand, and Genmoji. With the M3 chip comes incredible graphics, power-efficient performance, and swift speeds. According to Apple, iPad Air with M3 is nearly twice as fast as its M1 predecessor. Also introduced in this announcement is a brand new Magic Keyboard designed for iPad Air and an updated iPad. Ahead, you’ll find everything you need to know about Apple’s latest launch.

M3 PERFORMANCE

Equipped with the M3 chip, this new iPad Air brings new levels of productivity and performance to your hands. It features an 8-core CPU that is up to 35 percent faster than its M1 predecessor and a 9-core GPU with up to 40 percent faster graphics performance. With that, it also brings Apple’s advanced graphics architecture to iPad Air for the first time ever. This enables more accurate lighting, reflections, and shadows for graphics-intensive rendering—all of which combine for extremely realistic gaming experiences.

BUILT FOR APPLE INTELLIGENCE

M3’s improved Neural Engine unlocks a world of AI capabilities for users, performing up to 60 percent faster than that of M1. With Apple Intelligence, users have full access to the suite of tools that will help improve workflows and assist in their day-to-day lives. Standout features include Clean Up in Photos for removing distracting elements and Image Wand in the Notes app for more visually engaging outlines. You can read more about Apple Intelligence and its functions here. 

ALL-NEW MAGIC KEYBOARD FOR IPAD

This launch also marks the introduction of a brand new Magic Keyboard, specifically designed for iPad. It comes with a larger built-in trackpad and a new 14-key function row for easy access to basic controls. A magnetic attachment allows for a quick and easy set up with your iPad Air, while the Smart Connector immediately connects power and data without Bluetooth. The aluminium hinge also includes a USB-C port for charging.  

UPDATED IPAD WITH A16

Also announced with this launch is the updated iPad with A16. It arrives with double the starting storage, all-day battery life, and nearly 30 percent more speed than its predecessor. According to Apple, users will benefit from up to a 50 percent improvement in overall performance with this new iPad. 

EQUIPPED WITH IPADOS 18

Both iPad Air with M3 and iPad with A16 will arrive with iPadOS 18, which was announced last fall. It brings with it a whole slew of features that will make your iPad experience smarter than ever. Key features include Smart Script for the Notes app, Math Notes, and a redesigned Photos app. 

IPAD AIR WITH M3 AVAILABILITY AND PRICING

iPad Air with M3 will be available in two sizes and four finishes with 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations. Prices start at RM2,799. Orders will open soon.

MAGIC KEYBOARD AVAILABILITY AND PRICING

The Magic Keyboard is available in white for both 11-inch and 13-inch models with the former priced at RM1,299 and the latter at RM1,399. It is available for purchase now on apple.com. 

IPAD WITH A16 AVAILABILITY AND PRICING

iPad with A16 will be available in four finishes and starts with 128GB of storage. Prices start at RM1,599. Orders will open soon.

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