Apple unveils 2025 iPad Air with M3 chip: Specs, price and release date

Apple has officially introduced the latest iteration of the iPad Air, now powered by the M3 chip. This update comes less than a year after the M2 iPad Air was released in May 2024. While the design remains unchanged, the new model brings performance enhancements and continues to offer two size options: 11-inch and 13-inch.

2025 iPad Air: Specs

At its core, the 2025 iPad Air is a chip refresh, with the M3 replacing the M2. The design remains unchanged, but the M3 upgrade brings notable performance improvements.

M3 chip: Performance enhancements

• 8-core CPU and 9-core GPU
• Support for dynamic caching, hardware-accelerated mesh shading, and ray tracing
• 2x faster CPU performance than the M1 iPad Air
• 40% faster graphics compared to M1 iPad Air
• 60% faster for AI-based workflows than M1 iPad Air

Apple claims that the M3 enables significant speed boosts in multitasking, gaming, and AI-driven workflows. However, it’s worth noting that the M3 has faced some criticism, with speculation earlier in 2025 that Apple might even skip it for an M4 upgrade.

Apple has also launched an updated Magic Keyboard for the iPad Air 2025 iPad Air design and features

• Available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes (introduced with the M2 model in 2024)
• Comes in blue, purple, starlight, and space gray
• Supports Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C)
• Runs on iPadOS 18, with Apple Intelligence features

New Magic Keyboard for iPad Air

Apple has also launched an updated Magic Keyboard for the iPad Air. While it looks similar to the iPad Pro’s version, there are key differences:

• 14-key function row (for screen brightness, volume control, and shortcuts)
• Larger trackpad than the previous model
• Hinge made of aluminum, but not the entire chassis

This updated accessory makes the iPad Air a more compelling laptop alternative.

The new iPad and Magic Keyboard from side 2025 iPad Air release date

• Pre-orders: Wednesday, March 4
• On sale: Wednesday, March 12

Apple CEO Tim Cook hinted at the launch in a March 3 tweet, stating that “this week” something is “in the Air.” Just a day later, Apple confirmed the new M3-powered iPad Air.

2025 iPad Air pricing

Apple has kept pricing consistent with the M2 iPad Air lineup. Here’s how much the new models cost:

Model US Price UK Price AU Price 11-inch, 128GB $599 £599 $799 11-inch, 256GB $699 £699 $949 11-inch, 512GB $899 £899 $1,229 11-inch, 1TB $1,099 £1,099 $1,509 13-inch, 128GB $799 £799 $1,099 13-inch, 256GB $899 £899 $1,249 13-inch, 512GB $1,099 £1,099 $1,549 13-inch, 1TB $1,299 £1,299 $2,249

Apple also introduced a new Magic Keyboard designed for the iPad Air, priced at:

• $269 for the 11-inch version
• $319 for the 13-inch version

Should you buy the M3 iPad Air?

The M3 iPad Air is essentially a performance refresh, bringing faster speeds but no significant design changes. If you already own an M2 iPad Air, upgrading may not be necessary unless you need the M3’s improved graphics and AI performance. However, if you’re using an M1 or older iPad, the M3 iPad Air offers a major leap in speed and efficiency.

Pre-orders are open now, with availability beginning on March 12.

Image credits: Apple