Apple Unveils the iPad Air (M3) with a Redesigned Magic Keyboard

[HaiderAfan]

Apple has just announced the new iPad Air, now featuring the M3 chip. This major performance upgrade comes along with an updated Magic Keyboard, which includes a new, larger trackpad as well as better functionality. The iPad Air (M3) is now the most powerful tablet you'll find, bolstered with all these additions for professionals, students, and creative users alike.

The new iPad Air (M3) is now available to buy at S$899. A new version of the Magic Keyboard can also be bought separately. So, let's take a closer look at what this brand new Apple tablet brings to the table in terms of functionality, improvements and features.

M3 Chip: A Major Performance Boost​

The new iPad Air’s M3 chip was first introduced in October 2023. This chip debuted in the MacBook Air, bringing impressive speed and efficiency. The processor has an 8-core CPU and a 9-core GPU in iPad Air (M3) which offer significantly better performance compared to the previous generations.

According to Apple, the M3-equipped iPad Air is almost twice as fast as the M1 and up to 3.5 times faster than the A14-based model. This upgrade is set to lead to better multitasking, enhanced graphic rendering and fluid gaming experiences for users. Whether you’re a professional building resource-heavy applications, a student handling multiple assignments, or a gamer demanding high speeds, the M3 chip gives the iPad Air what it needs to power through it all.

The other big benefit for the M3 chip is power efficiencies. The processor is engineered for lower power consumption to prolong battery life, giving users long hours of untethered work or play; That means the iPad Air (M3) is ideal for anyone who wants a reliable computer experience they can just pop in their bag; travelers, remote workers, students, etc.

Revamped Magic Keyboard – Better Working Features​

Apple presents new redesigned and improved Magic Keyboard with the updated iPad Air at the side with several features borrowed from the iPad Pro’s keyboard. With a new trackpad sized bigger than before, the new design enables smoother navigation and precision control.

This sort of keyboard has come included with the release of a 14-key function row that enables speedy access to things like volume, brightness and media controls, giving it one of the best features in this freshly upgraded version. This helps you change the settings without going to the control center extensively and to a large extent saves time.

USB-C connector for passthough charging is another big upgrade. This means that as you’re using the keyboard, you can charge your iPad Air as well without needing more cables. Apple also strengthened the hinge on the keyboard with machined aluminum, giving it more rigidity and also making it more durable than previous keyboards.

For iPad Air users who employ their device for work or creative tasks, the new Magic Keyboard is an essential accessory. This makes typing and navigation much more fluent, thus enhancing the tablet’s productivity further due to its improved functionality and interested premium finishes.

Specifications Display, Camera and Connectivity​

As for the iPad Air’s external features, they should look quite familiar, despite the major internal upgrades Apple has introduced. There are two display sizes customers can choose between:

11-inch Liquid Retina Display​

Both of these options produce eye-popping visuals with high brightness levels, sharp detail, and vivid colors. Be it movies or edits, reading a document, or watching it, the display quality makes it a great experience for your eyes.

On the iPad Air (M3), you get a solitary 12MP rear camera, designed for astonishing photos and videos. On the front of the device, Apple has packed a 12MP ultra-wide camera with the support for a focus feature called Center Stage which automatically keeps the user in the center of video calls. That’s great for virtual meetings, online classes, or FaceTime calls.

Connectivity: The iPad Air (M3) supports Wi-Fi 6E, providing faster and more reliable internet connectivity. It ensures smooth streaming, rapid downloads, and lag-free video calls, which makes the device a reliable option for online activities.

It is also fully compatible with Apple Intelligence features, and supports both the Apple Pencil Pro and the USB-C Apple Pencil. This means that it can also function as a work horse for artists, students, and note takers.

Magic Keyboard Price and Release Date​

Apple has set the following prices for the revamped Magic Keyboard:

• S$399 for the 11-inch version
• S$449 for the 13-inch version

Availability: In stores from 12 March This is very much a high-end add-on, but the increased functionality and longevity make it a great value if you plan on taking full advantage of your iPad Air.

Pre Orders and Official Release Date​

You can now pre-order the iPad Air (M3) through:

• Apple Online Store
• Apple Store app
• Official Apple stores on Lazada and Shopee

According to the information, the device will be officially launched during retail on 12 March, and customers will be able to buy it from Apple stores and authorized resellers.

All this is more of an upgrade than a ground-up redesign; but the iPad Air (M3) is still making the most powerful, talked about, and compelling tablet in its price range. As such, allowed for an iPad Pro with an upgraded M3 chip, initial Magic Keyboard improvements, as well as compatibility with the latest Apple accessories… and then add those together and we get the new iPad Air that promises a great balance of power, efficiency, and versatility.

If you are looking to do demanding work on the go and need a fast tablet and laptop replacement, the iPad Air (M3) is the definitive choice. For work, school or play, this latest Apple tablet still makes the grade for a premium mid-range tablet.