The first new iPad of 2025 is rumored to be just around the corner. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that an M4 iPad Air could be unveiled this week, less than a year after the M2 iPad Air (2024) debuted. While anticipation has been building, concrete details beyond the expected chipset remain scarce.
The M4 Chip: A Performance Boost
The M4 chip, also anticipated in a new MacBook Air potentially launching this week, first appeared in the 2024 iPad Pro. Subsequently, the M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max variations powered last year’s MacBook Pro lineup. The M4 offers substantial performance gains over the M3, particularly in CPU-bound tasks, graphics processing, and machine learning capabilities. Furthermore, it boasts improved power efficiency and enhanced media handling.
The M4’s performance edge stems partly from its fabrication process. While the M3 utilized TSMC’s first-generation 3-nanometer process (N3B), the M4 leverages TSMC’s refined second-generation 3-nanometer process (N3P). Notably, there will not be an M3 iPad Air.
iPad Air vs. iPad Pro: Differentiating Features
As previously discussed, equipping both the 2025 iPad Air and the 2024 iPad Pro with the same M4 chip could create confusion, especially considering the significant price disparity. If Apple maintains the existing distinctions between the iPad Air and iPad Pro lines, we anticipate variations in display quality, RAM capacity, and storage options. Furthermore, differences in audio performance, authentication methods (like Face ID vs. Touch ID), and other features are likely.
Current iPad Air: Size and Color Options
The current iPad Air offers both 11-inch and 13-inch models, marking the first time the Air has been available in the larger size. Following previous generations, the 2024 iPad Air comes in a variety of vibrant colors, including Blue, Purple, Starlight, and the classic Space Gray.
Pricing Considerations
The current iPad Air starts at $599, while the entry-level 11-inch iPad Pro begins at $999. This price difference reflects the Pro’s premium features and positions the Air as a more affordable option.
Conclusion: A Powerful Upgrade for the iPad Air
The expected arrival of the M4 iPad Air promises a significant performance upgrade for Apple’s mid-range tablet. While sharing the same chipset as the iPad Pro, the Air is likely to retain its more accessible price point, making it an attractive option for users seeking a balance of power and affordability. We anticipate learning more about the new iPad Air and its accompanying features in the coming days.
