Apple Launches New iPad Air with M4 Chip

The M4 chip in the new iPad Air features an 8-core CPU and a 9-core GPU, which Apple claims delivers up to 30% faster performance than the previous M3-powered model. For users upgrading from an M1 iPad Air, the performance leap is even more substantial, with speeds up to 2.3 times faster. A key internal upgrade is the 50% increase in unified memory, jumping from 8GB in the previous generation to 12GB. This is paired with an increase in memory bandwidth to 120GB/s, enhancements aimed at improving multitasking and speeding up on-device AI processes. Connectivity sees a significant boost with the inclusion of Apple's custom silicon. The N1 chip brings Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 support, while cellular models feature the C1X modem. Apple states the new modem can deliver up to 50% faster cellular data performance while using up to 30% less power than its predecessor. While the M4 chip shares its name with the processor in the iPad Pro, the version in the Air is configured differently, with an 8-core CPU (3 performance, 5 efficiency cores) and a 9-core GPU. Higher-tier iPad Pro models feature M4 chips with more performance cores and GPU cores. Despite the significant internal upgrades to the processor, memory, and connectivity chips, the external design and Liquid Retina LCD screen remain the same as the prior generation. Apple maintained the same starting price points: $599 for the 11-inch model and $799 for the 13-inch version.