Apple's iPad air is getting a slight refresh courtesy of a processor bump and an accessory redesign.
Launching alongside the new M3 iPad, the iPad Magic keyboard will bring more control to the iPad experience, allowing this tablet to be more productive when you're using it to get things done.
M3 iPad Air
The iPad Air lineup with the M3 processor was revealed on March 4, 2025. The design is very similar to 2024's M2-powered. Just like its predecessor it will support the Apple Pencil Pro as well as the USB-C Apple Pencil, be available in two sizes (11 inch and 13 inch displays) and cost the same price as the previous model (in Canada that's starting at $799).
What's new with the M3 iPad Air is (as you might guess from the name) the step up from the M2 to the M3 processor. The chip boosts performance by packing more transistors into the same sized processor, supporting better graphics and power efficiency.
If you're upgrading from an M1 iPad Air or A14 Bionic, Apple says the processor is 2x faster 3.5x faster respectively.
An exciting change for the iPad Air collection has to do with one of the most-used iPad accessories.
iPad Air with Magic Keyboard
To increase productivity with the newest iPad Air, Apple is also introducing an updated Magic Keyboard for iPad.
The biggest difference will be the addition of a 14-key function row. This will look very familiar to people who have typed away on the iPad Pro keyboard introduced last year, and emulates the function row of a Macbook.
The additional keys allow you to control key functions like screen brightness, music navigation and volume, or to quickly bring up Spotlight search.
Additionally, the trackpad has increased in size to enhance navigation if you're using the "mouse" instead of the touchscreen.
The new keyboard is available for both the 11 and 13-inch models, but is only available in white.
When is the new iPad Air available?
The 2025 iPad Air with the M3 chip is available in stores starting March 12 alongside the new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air and available to pre-order immediately.
If you already have an M2 iPad Air, or even an M1 you likely have an iPad that's extremely capable for most tasks, so probably don't need to upgrade.
However, if you have an iPad with the A14 bionic chip, or really want a tablet that supports Apple Intelligence, this will be a great upgrade. If you use your iPad for entertainment (streaming shows, watching movies, sketching) you may want to have a quick look at the latest iPad Mini (which also supports Apple Intelligence).
But if you're due for an upgrade and want a large screen tablet for productivity and entertainment, the M3-powered iPad Air has arrived at a perfect time for you!
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