iPad Air is one of the most popular iPad lineups. It provides all the essential features and processing power missing on the regular iPad, supports the second-generation Apple Pencil that unlocks several features for creative users, and serves as a reliable multimedia consumption device. The current iteration, iPad Air (5th Generation), came out in 2022, meaning the product is nearly two years old. However, in 2024, the Cupertino-based tech giant is expected to refresh the lineup by releasing a new iPad Air.
Apple Could Release A 12.9-inch iPad Air This Year
Over the years, the market trend has shifted from devices with a small screen to those with a larger screen. This is why smartphones and tablets with a larger screen sell more than the smaller ones. Whether you’re in the Android or the Apple ecosystem, the top-tier handsets and tablets are all the largest in their segment. This particular trend is also visible in how Apple has increased the screen size on the iPad Air models.
The iPad Air (2nd Generation) came with a 9.70-inch screen, which was increased to 10.50 with the iPad Air (3rd Generation). The fourth and fifth-generation iPads, however, are stuck with a 10.9-inch display. In 2024, Apple is expected to unveil a 12.90-inch iPad Air. Several sources, including Bloomberg, indicate that the company will introduce a bigger screen iPad Air alongside the regular 10.90-inch variant.
Even though the bigger iPad may use dated LCD technology, it is still a significant upgrade, considering that iPad sales have plummeted over the past few quarters. However, Apple could demand more money from customers with a larger screen. Currently, the iPad Air (5th Generation), with a 10.9-inch screen, costs $599 in the United States and Rs. 59,990 in India; the version with a larger screen could cost more.
A New Camera Bump On The iPad Air
Per leaked schematics of the upcoming iPad Air, the tablet could ship with a new camera bump. Until now, the lineup hasn’t included a flash with the camera. However, the new schematics suggest that the camera bump will resemble that on the iPhone X (without the dual camera). Further, it could also include a flash module. Although this might mean that the company has a couple of added camera features, neither the company nor a source has confirmed the features.
Other Expected Changes
Another significant change the lineup could see is a new processor on the iPad Air. The latest generation features Apple’s M1 processor. However, the one that comes out in March 2024 could feature an M2 processor, which should offer an upgrade in terms of performance. An M3 chip for the mid-tier iPad Air lineup could be overkill, especially since Apple has a habit of providing the most potent chipset with the iPad Pro.
The company could also release the iPad Air (6th Generation) in new colors. Perhaps we might see some battery and charging speed improvements, but that lies shortly. More details about the iPad Air lineup might surface in the coming days.
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