In a highly anticipated move, Apple has unveiled the latest version of its popular iPad Air, now powered by the advanced M3 chip, reinforcing its position as a leading contender in the premium tablet market. The new iPad Air M3 is priced starting from 599 (699/$599/A$999), maintaining the same price point as its predecessor. Buyers can choose between two screen sizesan 11-inch or 13-inch modelmaking it a versatile option for various consumer needs. This pricing strategy places the iPad Air comfortably between Apples entry-level iPad, priced at 329, and the premium iPad Pro, which starts at 999.

Visually, the new iPad Air M3 does not deviate from the design language established by its predecessor. The sleek, lightweight aluminium chassis houses a stunning Liquid Retina display, known for its clarity and vibrant color reproduction. Additionally, it retains the Touch ID fingerprint scanner conveniently embedded in the power button, ensuring secure access for users.

One of the standout features is the Centre Stage webcam, located at the top of the screen, which enhances the video calling experience. This technology intelligently adjusts the cameras framing during calls, keeping you and your companions in view, making it ideal for family gatherings or remote meetings. The stereo speakers further enhance this experience, offering an immersive audio experience when watching films or streaming videos. Additionally, the iPad Air supports the Apple Pencil Pro, priced at 129, which is excellent for artists and students alike for doodling, note-taking, and creative work.

When we delve into the specifications, the iPad Air M3 boasts an 11-inch or 13-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 264 pixels per inch (ppi). It is powered by the robust Apple M3 processor, featuring a 9-core GPU that delivers exceptional graphics performance. The device comes with 8GB of RAM and offers a range of storage options from 128GB to a substantial 1TB, catering to both casual users and professionals with extensive storage needs. It operates on the latest iPadOS 18.4, which introduces new multitasking features and allows users to connect to external displays via USB-C.

One of the most significant upgrades is the M3 chip, which debuted in the MacBook Pro late last year. Although not the latest chip in Apple's lineup, it still outperforms many competitors and is about 10-20% faster than the previous M2 model. This enhanced processing power means users can run demanding applications such as Affinity Photo and Adobe Lightroom without any hiccups. Coupled with an impressive battery life of nine to ten hours, the iPad Air M3 is designed to serve as a laptop alternative, particularly when paired with accessories like Apple's Magic Keyboard case, though it comes at a steep price of 269.

In terms of sustainability, Apple has made strides with the iPad Air M3. The device is crafted with at least 30% recycled materials, including aluminium, cobalt, copper, and more, showcasing Apples commitment to reducing its environmental impact. The battery is engineered to last over 1,000 full charge cycles while maintaining at least 80% capacity, and users can replace it for a fee starting at 115. Those concerned about repairability will also find that the iPad Air M3 is designed to be serviceable, with out-of-warranty repairs starting at 429.

When comparing prices, the 11-inch iPad Air M3 starts at 599, while the 13-inch variant begins at 799. For context, the standard iPad A16 starts at 329, and the high-end iPad Pro M4 is priced from 999, while competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE are available for 499. Prospective buyers might also consider the MacBook Air M4, which starts at 999.

In summary, the iPad Air M3 is an exceptional tablet that combines laptop-level performance with a user-friendly design. It offers powerful capabilities, a long-lasting battery, and a high-quality display, making it a worthy investment for those in search of a premium tablet experience. However, those who mainly consume media may find that the standard iPad A16 suffices at a more budget-friendly price point. Meanwhile, the iPad Pro M4, despite its higher cost, offers superior features, making it an attractive option for power users.

Pros: Available in two sizes, impressive M3 performance, solid battery life, high-quality display, USB-C connectivity, long software support, extensive app ecosystem, superior speakers, and a responsive landscape camera. Cons: Higher price point, lack of support for multiple users, iPadOS still has room for improvement as a laptop alternative, absence of a built-in kickstand without a case, and no Face ID functionality, with a refresh rate capped at 60Hz.