Apple has finally launched the much-anticipated iPad Air M3, filling the gap left by last year’s iPad Pro M4 announcement.

The entry-level 11-inch model is priced at $599, while the larger 13-inch variant starts at $799. Available for pre-order now, the iPad Air M3 will begin shipping on March 12.

What’s New in the iPad Air M3?

M3 chip for faster performance

Powered by the M3 chip, the latest iPad Air delivers up to 35% faster CPU performance and 40% better graphics than its M1 predecessor. With an 8-core CPU and 9-core GPU, the M3 chip makes the iPad Air more capable for gaming, video editing, and multitasking.

Two display options: 11-inch and 13-inch

Apple now offers the iPad Air M3 in two sizes:

11-inch Liquid Retina display
13-inch Liquid Retina display (600 nits brightness)

Both provide sharp visuals, vibrant colors, and improved clarity, making them ideal for creatives and media consumers.

Apple pencil pro compatibility

The iPad Air M3 supports the Apple Pencil Pro, which includes:

Squeeze gestures for enhanced control
Barrel rotation detection for precision drawing
Haptic feedback for a more immersive experience

Updated magic keyboard

Apple has also introduced a new Magic Keyboard for the iPad Air M3. Key features include:

14-key function row for better control
Larger trackpad for smoother navigation
Magnetic attachment and adjustable viewing angles

Advanced neural engine for AI and productivity

The 16-core Neural Engine in the M3 chip delivers up to 60% faster AI performance compared to the M1 version. Apple’s AI-powered note-taking, video editing, and smart tracking tools will work seamlessly on this device.

Is the iPad Air M3 worth buying?

The iPad Air M3 sits between the base iPad and the iPad Pro, offering a solid performance boost without the premium Pro price. If you’re upgrading from an older iPad Air, you’ll benefit from:

Faster chip performance
Larger display option
Better external display support

However, ProMotion, Face ID, and mini-LED are still exclusive to the iPad Pro lineup. If you need basic productivity, media streaming, or light creative work, older iPads (M1 or M2) may still serve you well. But if you want future-proofing, improved creative performance, or a larger screen without jumping to the Pro price tag, the iPad Air M3 is a great choice.

M3 chip for faster performance

Two display options: 11-inch and 13-inch

Apple pencil pro compatibility

Updated magic keyboard

Advanced neural engine for AI and productivity

Is the iPad Air M3 worth buying?