Apple has announced a new version of its iPad Air tablet powered by the company’s M4 chip, offering improved performance, faster graphics, more memory and enhanced connectivity while maintaining familiar iPad functionality, the company said Monday morning.

The new iPad Air features a faster central processing unit and graphics processing unit, boosting tasks such as image editing and gaming, and supports advanced artificial intelligence features with a faster Neural Engine, higher memory bandwidth and 50 percent more unified system memory compared to the previous generation.

Image

Available in both 11-inch and 13-inch models, the device delivers support for accessories including the Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard, and provides all-day battery life and a powerful app ecosystem for users ranging from students to creative professionals.

The 11-inch iPad Air starts at $599 in the United States for Wi-Fi models and $749 for Wi-Fi + Cellular models, while the 13-inch version starts at $799 and $949 respectively. Pre-orders began Wednesday, March 4, with availability starting Wednesday, March 11.

Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Product Marketing, said the updated iPad Air gives users “more ways than ever to be creative and productive” thanks to its performance and versatility.

Apple said the new wireless networking chip (N1) enables faster connectivity with support for Wi-Fi 7, and the cellular modem (C1X) provides faster cellular performance while consuming less energy.

Comparison with prior iPad Air model

Below is a summary comparison between the 2026 iPad Air and previous-generation iPad Air (M3) based on information from Apple releases and product comparisons: