New M4 iPad Air Packs More Power for Multitasking

Apple's latest iPad Air upgrade boosts RAM to 12GB, enhancing multitasking performance on iPadOS 26. Pricing starts at $599, with storage options up to 1TB.
Apple has unveiled the latest iteration of its iPad Air lineup, featuring a significant upgrade under the hood. The new iPad Air replaces the previous M3 chip with the more powerful M4 processor, while also doubling the RAM from 8GB to 12GB.
This RAM boost is particularly noteworthy, as it should greatly enhance the device's multitasking capabilities when running the latest version of iPadOS 26. Users will be able to seamlessly juggle multiple windows and apps, making the iPad Air an even more versatile tablet for productivity and entertainment.
The design of the new iPad Air remains largely unchanged from the M2 version introduced in 2024 and the M3 model from last year. However, the M4 variant maintains compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro accessory, unlike the earlier M2 and M3 models that were incompatible with the second-generation Apple Pencil.

The iPad Air will be available in both 11-inch and 13-inch versions, with prices starting at $599 and $799, respectively. Unfortunately, the entry-level models still come with a modest 128GB of storage, but users can upgrade to 256GB ($100 extra), 512GB ($300 extra), or even 1TB ($500 extra) if their needs are more demanding.
Preorders for the new iPad Air will begin on March 4, and the tablet will hit the market on March 11. With the M4 chip and 12GB of RAM, this latest iPad Air model promises to deliver a significant boost in performance and multitasking capabilities, making it an attractive option for both casual and power users in the Apple ecosystem.

The iPad Air lineup has long been a middle-ground option in Apple's tablet lineup, offering a balance of power, portability, and affordability. This latest update reinforces that position, providing users with a more capable device without a significant price hike. As the tablet market continues to evolve, the iPad Air remains a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and performant Apple tablet experience.
Source: Ars Technica


