Apple has refreshed its iPad Air line with the M4 chip, delivering a significant performance boost in a familiar, sleek design. The fresh iPad Air M4, available now, aims to bridge the gap between the entry-level iPad and the premium iPad Pro, offering a compelling blend of power, and portability. Starting at £599, the latest iteration maintains the price point of its predecessor whereas introducing substantial internal upgrades, making it a strong contender in the premium tablet market.
The iPad Air M4 isn’t a radical redesign, but rather a refinement of a winning formula. It retains the slim 6.1mm profile and lightweight build – under half a kilogram – that have defined the Air series. Available in both 11-inch and 13-inch screen sizes, the tablet caters to a range of user needs, from on-the-go productivity to immersive media consumption. The 13-inch model, in particular, positions itself as a viable laptop alternative for those seeking a larger display.
M4 Chip and Performance Gains
At the heart of the iPad Air M4 lies Apple’s M4 chip, previously found in the iPad Pro and MacBook Air. This processor, paired with 12GB of RAM, delivers a noticeable performance leap over the previous generation. Apple claims the M4 is up to 21% faster than the M3 and up to 60% faster than the M1 chip. This translates to smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and the ability to handle demanding tasks like video editing and graphic design with ease. The M4’s capabilities position the iPad Air as a powerful tool for creative professionals and power users alike.
The upgraded chip isn’t the only performance enhancement. The new iPad Air also features Apple’s next-generation N1 wifi and Bluetooth chip, offering faster wireless connectivity. Testing has shown it to be among the fastest Wi-Fi 7 equipped devices available, and the Apple C1X 5G chip provides mobile data speeds comparable to the fastest smartphones. These improvements ensure a seamless online experience, whether at home or on the go.
iPadOS 26.3 and Enhanced Multitasking
The iPad Air M4 ships with iPadOS 26.3, which introduces significant improvements to multitasking capabilities. The operating system now features a menu bar, free-form window resizing, and traditional window controls, bringing the iPad experience closer to that of a Mac. This enhanced functionality, combined with the tablet’s processing power, allows users to seamlessly switch between apps and work on multiple tasks simultaneously. The inclusion of the Preview app further enhances productivity by providing a robust tool for viewing and editing files.
Beyond productivity, the iPad Air M4 excels as a multimedia device. Its crisp, bright Liquid Retina display, coupled with stereo speakers, delivers an immersive viewing experience. When paired with accessories like the Apple Pencil and a keyboard case, the tablet transforms into a versatile tool for note-taking, sketching, and content creation.
Sustainability and Repairability
Apple continues to prioritize sustainability with the iPad Air M4. The device’s enclosure is made with at least 30% recycled content, including aluminum, cobalt, copper, and other materials. The battery is designed to retain at least 80% of its original capacity after 1,000 full charge cycles, and Apple offers trade-in and recycling programs for both Apple and non-Apple products. Repair options are also available, with a damaged out-of-warranty repair starting at £429.
Pricing and Alternatives
The 11-inch iPad Air M4 starts at £599 (€649/$599/A$999), while the 13-inch model begins at £799 (€849/$799/A$1,349). For comparison, the iPad A16 is available from £329, the iPad Pro M5 starts at £999, and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE costs from £399. The MacBook Neo starts at £599 and the MacBook Air M5 starts at £1,099.
The iPad Air M4 represents a compelling value proposition, offering a premium tablet experience at a competitive price point. While it may not boast the advanced features of the iPad Pro, such as a ProMotion display or Face ID, it delivers exceptional performance, versatility, and portability.
For those considering an upgrade from an older iPad, particularly a 2020 iPad Air or earlier, the M4-powered model offers a substantial improvement in performance and features. The combination of the powerful M4 chip, enhanced iPadOS, and long battery life makes the iPad Air M4 a standout choice for users seeking a premium tablet experience.
As Apple continues to refine its iPad lineup, the Air M4 solidifies its position as a versatile and powerful device. The ongoing development of iPadOS and the growing ecosystem of desktop-class apps suggest that the iPad Air will continue to evolve and adapt to the needs of its users. The future of the iPad Air looks bright, with potential advancements in display technology, connectivity, and accessory support on the horizon.
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