Unexpectedly, Apple has announced an all-new iPad that will bring back the famed iPad Air name to the company’s device lineup. The last time we saw a new iPad Air was in 2014 with the iPad Air 2. Now, we’re getting a sort of third-generation Air with a bigger screen, better specs, and Apple Pencil support.
For starters, the new iPad Air packs a 10.5-inch 2224×1668 screen over the smaller 9.7-inch panel we’ve seen on iPads in the past. It offers True Tone technology and first-gen Apple Pencil support. Much like the 10.5-inch iPad Pro from 2017, the new Air should offer a footprint that’s slightly bigger than previous 9.7-inch models. However, it certainly won’t be as big as, say, the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.
Inside, Apple uses its A12 Bionic processor, the same one found in the iPhone XS and XR. The company also packs in twice the graphics performance in the new Air along with a 70 percent boost in general performance. For storage, Apple offers either 64 or 256GB of space. You also get the company’s Neural Engine, an eSIM slot, and up to 10 hours of battery life.
On the back, Apple sticks with an 8MP camera that can shoot up to 1080p video. You also get a 7MP selfie shooter. There’s a Touch ID sensor that sits within the bottom bezel, a Lightning port at the very bottom of the device, Smart Keyboard support thanks to pogo pins on the left side, and headphone jack on the top.
Apple will be positioning the new iPad Air as a way for people to get more power out of their iPad without having to spend so much money on an iPad Pro. That’s why it’ll be offered alongside the 9.7-inch iPad which offers a smaller screen, less power, and a cheaper price tag. The company is also introducing a new iPad mini which will be priced at $399.
ssentially, it looks like Apple wants to expand its offerings when it comes to the iPad to ensure everyone finds a model they like.
According to the company, the new iPad Air will start at $499 for 64GB of storage. The 256GB variant will cost $649. The new Air will also be offered with cellular connectivity for $629 and $779, respectively. It comes in Space Gray, Silver, and Gold.
Apple is launching the new iPad Air today, so you’ll be able to visit apple.com and order one. Apple Stores will have supply of the tablet next week.
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