Apple has officially introduced its latest iPad lineup without any fanfare, featuring an upgraded iPad Air and an enhanced iPad 11 model. The launch follows a teaser from Apple CEO Tim Cook, who hinted at an upcoming product reveal with the phrase, “There’s something in the AIR.” While speculation initially pointed to a MacBook Air refresh, Apple instead revealed the anticipated iPad models, equipped with improved performance and features.
Introducing the newest iPad Air! pic.twitter.com/10uCdhRLUw
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) March 4, 2025
iPad Air (2025): Performance and Upgrades
The latest iPad Air is a significant leap forward from its predecessor, which housed the M1 chip. Now powered by the M3 processor, the new model is claimed to deliver twice the speed and efficiency compared to the older version.
Apple has also refreshed its standard iPad, integrating the A16 Bionic chip while doubling the base storage to 128GB. The device retains its 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, ensuring a vibrant visual experience.
iPad Air (2025): Price In India, Availability
The newly launched iPad will be available for purchase via Apple’s online store, the Apple Store app, and authorised resellers in India and 28 other regions. The official pricing for different storage and connectivity options is as follows:
- 128GB Wi-Fi: Rs 34,900
- 256GB Wi-Fi: Rs 44,900
- 512GB Wi-Fi: Rs 64,900
- 128GB Wi-Fi + Cellular: Rs 49,900
- 256GB Wi-Fi + Cellular: Rs 59,900
- 512GB Wi-Fi + Cellular: Rs 79,900
Accessories such as the Magic Keyboard Folio and Smart Folio will also be available at Rs 24,900 and Rs 8,500, respectively. The new devices will be up for sale starting Wednesday, March 12.
iPad (11th Gen) Specifications
Apple claims the A16 Bionic chip enhances speed by nearly 30 per cent while delivering up to 50 per cent better overall performance. The company also emphasised that the new iPad is six times faster than the top-selling Android tablet. Key specifications include:
- 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display (2360 x 1640 pixels, 500 nits brightness, True Tone)
- A16 chip with 5-core CPU, 4-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine
- Storage options: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB
- 12MP rear camera with autofocus
- 12MP ultrawide front camera with Retina Flash and Center Stage support
- Dual microphones, landscape stereo speakers
- Wi-Fi 6 and optional 5G connectivity
- Touch ID authentication
- 28.6-watt-hour battery, offering up to 10 hours of usage on Wi-Fi and 9 hours on cellular
iPad Air M3: What’s New?
Apple has also introduced the M3-powered iPad Air, available in two sizes: 11-inch and 13-inch. Featuring a True Tone Retina display with up to 500 nits of peak brightness, the device aims to offer an enhanced visual experience. The M3 chip, equipped with an 8-core CPU, 9-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine, and 8GB RAM, is expected to boost CPU performance by 35 per cent and graphics performance by 40% compared to the M1 model.
The iPad Air also boasts a 12MP rear camera and a 12MP ultrawide front camera with Retina Flash and True Tone. It runs on iPadOS 18 and will support Apple Intelligence features, including Clean Up tool, Image Wand, Image Playground, Writing Tools, and ChatGPT integration.
Additionally, the M3 iPad Air is compatible with the new Magic Keyboard, which features a built-in trackpad and a 14-key function row for improved accessibility. Apple Pencil Pro will also be supported, offering enhanced precision for creative professionals and students alike.
