Apple has introduced a new version of the iPad Air powered by its M4 chip, promising faster performance, more memory, and updated connectivity features while keeping the same starting price as the previous model.
The new iPad Air comes in 11-inch and 13-inch variants, starting at ₱42,990 and ₱54,990, respectively, for Wi-Fi models. Education pricing starts at ₱38,990 for the 11-inch and ₱51,990 for the 13-inch version.
According to Apple, the M4 chip delivers up to 30% faster performance compared to the M3-powered iPad Air and up to 2.3 times faster performance than models running on the M1 chip.
The device uses an 8-core CPU and 9-core GPU, with support for hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading aimed at improving graphics performance for games and creative applications.
Apple said the new iPad Air also increases unified memory to 12GB — a 50% jump from the previous generation — and boosts memory bandwidth to 120GB/s.
The 16-core Neural Engine is claimed to be up to three times faster than that of the M1, supporting on-device artificial intelligence features such as photo search, background removal in video editing, and AI-powered tools in third-party apps.
Connectivity has also been updated. The device features Apple’s N1 wireless chip, which supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread.
Cellular models include the C1X modem, which Apple said delivers up to 50% faster cellular data speeds and up to 30% lower modem energy use compared to the M3-based iPad Air. The tablet supports 5G and eSIM.
The new iPad Air runs on iPadOS 26, which introduces a redesigned interface using what Apple calls “Liquid Glass,” a new windowing system, updated file management tools, a Preview app for PDFs and images, and enhanced background task capabilities. Audio input controls and local capture for high-quality recordings are also included.
Accessories remain a key part of the iPad Air lineup. The device supports Apple Pencil Pro and Apple Pencil (USB-C), as well as the Magic Keyboard, which attaches magnetically and includes a built-in trackpad and USB-C charging port.
The 11-inch Magic Keyboard is priced at ₱17,990, while the 13-inch version costs ₱19,990. Apple Pencil Pro is priced at ₱8,690, and the USB-C version at ₱4,990.
In a statement, Bob Borchers, Apple’s vice president of worldwide product marketing, said:
“iPad Air gives users more ways than ever to be creative and productive, offering powerful performance and incredible versatility to help them turn their ideas into reality. With its blazing performance thanks to M4, incredible AI capabilities, and game-changing iPadOS 26 features, there’s never been a better time to choose or upgrade to iPad Air.”
Apple also said the iPad Air uses 30% recycled content, including recycled aluminum in the enclosure and recycled cobalt in the battery, as part of its broader environmental targets.
The new iPad Air will be available through Apple’s Philippine website and authorized resellers. Apple said customers should check back later for local availability details.
