iPad Air becomes a power tablet with M1
Apple raises the performance of the new iPad Air to the same level as the iPad Pro. It gets the same processor with the M1, a modern front-facing camera, and 5G on request.
The M1 has already convinced in the MacBook and did not disappoint in the iPad Pro either. According to Apple, the new iPad Air with the M1 should have 60% more performance than its predecessor with the A14. The graphics performance is supposed to double.
Centerstage, 5G and iPadOS 15
The iPad Air is the last iPad to get a front camera with Centerstage. This means that the image from the 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera is centered during video calls as if it were sitting on top of the 10.9-inch screen. But it is actually on the left or right edge.
If Wi-Fi 6 isn't enough for you, the new iPad Air gives you a 5G data connection. However, you cannot insert a SIM card. The tablet only works with eSIM. In addition, the USB-C port is supposed to transfer data twice as fast as in the predecessor. With 10 Gbps, it should now be USB 3.1 Gen 2.
The iPad Air has iPadOS 15 on board and works with the usual accessories like the keyboard cases or the 2nd generation Apple Pencil.
Five colors
The new iPad Air comes in a choice of five colors: Space Gray, Polaris, Rose, Purple and Blue. At least, these are the official names. The blue could also pass for turquoise.
Pre-orders should be possible from March 11, and sales will start on March 18. There are two storage variants with 64 or 256 gigabyte capacity and you can choose between a WLAN variant and the 5G model. The prices start at 679 Euros and 849 Euros, respectively. In Switzerland, the prices are 649 and 819 francs.
When I was but a young student, I'd sit in my friend's living room with all my classmates and play on his SuperNES. Since then I've had the opportunity to test out all the newest technology for you. I've done reviews at Curved, Computer Bild and Netzwelt, and have now arrived at Galaxus.de.