6 aspects of the M3 iPad Air that left us questioning Apple's decisions.
On Tuesday, Apple introduced the iPad Air (2025). While a new tablet from Apple was expected, the actual launch deviated considerably from prior speculation. Here are some surprising details and insights regarding Cupertino's latest offering.
M3, not M4
Apple
The most astonishing feature of the iPad Air (2025) is its M3 chipset. For months, there were rumors that Apple would move straight from the M2 chip in the iPad Air (2024) to the M4. This expectation was reinforced as other Apple devices began adopting the M4 chip. For example, both the MacBook Pro (2024) and the iMac (2024) have transitioned to this chipset, and the upcoming MacBook Air (2025) is also anticipated to forgo the M3 in favor of the M4.
The only element of this rumor that seemed illogical was its relation to the iPad Pro (2024). That series, revealed alongside the iPad Air (2024) last year, features the M4, and it has been rumored that there wouldn't be a new Pro model until 2026. Would Apple really release an iPad Air with the same chip as the more expensive, feature-rich iPad Pro? Evidently not, as the iPad Air (2025) is equipped with the M3.
The timing
Apple
On Monday, Tim Cook hinted at a new "Air" device, leading many to speculate he was hinting at the anticipated MacBook Air (2025) rather than a new iPad Air. While the new "Air" laptop may launch this week, it could create a notable challenge for Apple.
The forthcoming MacBook Air is expected to utilize an M4 chip, representing a logical upgrade from the M3 chip in the current model. To effectively market this new version, Apple needs to provide compelling reasons for consumers to see the M4 as superior to the M3. This comparison might unintentionally diminish the perceived value of the new iPad Air (2025).
Historically, tablets and laptops were considered to serve different purposes. However, potential buyers may find it confusing to choose a $599 iPad Air with an M3 chip over an entry-level MacBook Air with an M4 chip, priced just $400 higher.
While I fully expect Apple to unveil the new MacBook Air this week, it might be more prudent for the company to hold off and introduce the new laptop closer to the June Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). Announcing both products simultaneously could be viewed as an unnecessary mistake.
Is that all?
Apple
When the iPad Air (2024) was launched last year, it introduced several features that distinguished it from the iPad Air (2022) it replaced. Key upgrades included a new chip, an enhanced display, a Center Stage front-facing camera, and additional storage options. These improvements likely motivated many iPad Air (2022) owners to upgrade. Conversely, the iPad Air (2025) closely resembles the iPad Air (2024), making it challenging for those who purchased last year’s model to justify upgrading.
In fact, I don't see a strong reason for even iPad Air (2022) owners to consider an upgrade.
For one, why purchase the iPad Air (2025) at full price when a similar iPad Air (2024) might soon be available at a discount? Additionally, given the striking similarities between the last two models, it’s reasonable to anticipate that the next version—possibly the iPad Air (2026)—will come with significant updates, such as a new design, an improved camera, and potentially Face ID.
I mean, Apple didn’t even release the typically colorful iPad Air in a new color this time, indicating that at least one of these updates is likely for the next release, right?
What’s up with battery life?
One advantage of upgrading to a new iPhone each year is the enhanced battery life. Apple has consistently improved battery performance across generations, with the exception of iPads.
Consider this: both the iPad Air (2024) and iPad Air (2025) provide up to 10 hours of battery life between charges. Can you guess how many hours of battery life you could expect from the 2014 iPad Air 2? It's also 10 hours. One would assume that after ten years, Apple would have managed to extend battery life by at least an hour for the iPad Air.
Is it too much to ask for a tablet that can last at least a day between charges?
Generally underwhelmed
Apple
I believe the iPad Air (2025) will be regarded as a solid product, similar to the iPad Air (2024) before it. However, I feel that additional time could have been dedicated to its development to introduce some new features. With the “
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6 aspects of the M3 iPad Air that left us questioning Apple's decisions.
Is it a good idea to purchase the new iPad Air now or should you hold off until next year? Here are our thoughts.