Apple has introduced the iPad Air 2026, marking the third update to the lineup in as many years. The new model upgrades to the M4 chip, increases RAM capacity, and becomes the first iPad to include Apple’s N1 and C1X wireless chips.
While Apple briefly referenced last year’s M3-powered iPad Air, the latest version is clearly aimed at users of the 2022 M1 model and at standard iPad users considering an upgrade.
Display and Design
Despite earlier speculation, the iPad Air 2026 continues to use Liquid Retina LCD panels with a 60Hz refresh rate.
The device is available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes and comes in Space Gray, Blue, Purple, and Starlight finishes.
Performance and Hardware Upgrades
The iPad Air 2026 is powered by the M4 processor, delivering a 30% performance increase over the 2025 M3 version. Compared to the 2022 M1 model, it offers a 2.3x speed improvement.
It now includes 12GB of RAM, up from 8GB, with memory bandwidth reaching 120GB/s.
The M4 chip features an 8-core CPU and a 9-core GPU. Its 16-core Neural Engine provides three times the performance of the M1’s neural processor. The combination of improved processing power and additional RAM enhances on-device AI capabilities, including background removal in Final Cut Pro.
Connectivity
The tablet uses Apple’s N1 chip for local connectivity, supporting Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread for smart home integration.
For 5G models, Apple includes the new C1X modem, which delivers 50% faster wireless speeds while consuming 30% less power compared to the modem used in the M3-powered iPad Air.
Pricing
The 11-inch iPad Air 2026 starts at $600 for the 128GB model. The 256GB version is priced at $700, the 512GB variant costs $900, and the 1TB configuration is available for $1,100.
The larger 13-inch model starts at $800 for 128GB. The 256GB variant is priced at $900, the 512GB option costs $1,100, and the 1TB model is available for $1,300. Buyers who want 5G connectivity will need to add $250.
Apple offers a $50 education discount for teachers and students.
Accessories
The iPad Air 2026 supports the Apple Magic Keyboard, priced at $270 for the 11-inch model and $320 for the 13-inch version. It is also compatible with the Apple Pencil, priced at $80, and the Apple Pencil Pro, priced at $130. Education discounts apply to these accessories.
The retail package includes a 20W charger and a USB-C to USB-C cable.
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