It was an open secret and Apple has renewed Its iPad Air. This new device comes in two sizes, 11 and 13 inches, and retains the same philosophy as always: A versatile iPad designed for students, creators, and professionals who want something more than an entry-level model, but without jumping to the most expensive one in the catalog. With the M4the new connectivity chips N1 and C1XWith the upcoming iPadOS 26, the iPad Air is positioned as a particularly interesting option for users in Europe and Spain looking for a long-lasting tablet.
M4 chip: more power for multitasking, video, and gaming
The biggest change this generation is on the inside. The new iPad Air integrates an M4 with an 8-core CPU, 9-core GPU, and 16-core neural engine, a configuration that, according to Apple data, offers up to 30% more performance than the previous model with M3 and up to 2,3 times more than the generation with M1.
In day-to-day life, that improvement translates into shorter export times in video editing apps like Final Cut ProFaster photo composition in editing apps and a smoother experience when working with multiple documents and windows open simultaneously. For those coming from older iPad models or an iPad Air with M1, the leap in speed and responsiveness will be especially noticeable.
The graphic design also takes a significant step forward. M4's 9-core GPU Incorporates second generation of hardware mesh shading and ray tracingThese technologies enable much more realistic lighting, reflections, and shadows. Apple claims over four times faster 3D rendering with ray tracing compared to the iPad Air with M1, impacting both demanding games and professional visualization apps.
Boosting artificial intelligence with more memory and bandwidth
In addition to raw power, Apple is focusing on AI. The new iPad Air incorporates 12GB of unified memory, 50% more than the previous generationand increases memory bandwidth to 120 GB/s. This combination is designed to run more complex AI models locally, without relying so heavily on the cloud.
The M4's 16-core neural engine is, according to the company, three times faster than the M1This benefits everyday tasks such as searching for people or objects in the photo library, transcribing voice notes or lectures, and more advanced functions integrated into third-party apps, such as assisted writing, video analysis, or intelligent document editing.
Apple also links these improvements to its commitment to Apple Intelligence, the suite of AI features integrated into its systems. In the case of the iPad Air, memory enhancement and neural engine improvement They should allow enough time for the device to handle more generative AI features coming to iPadOS in Europe with ease for several years.
Upgraded connectivity: N1 with Wi-Fi 7 and a more efficient C1X modem
Another major change is in wireless connectivity. The new iPad Air incorporates the Apple's N1 chip, which adds support for Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and ThreadThis component, which the company already debuted in the latest iPhones and iPad Pros, promises better performance on 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks and greater stability in features such as AirDrop or Personal Hotspot.
In Europe and Spain, where routers and mesh systems compatible with the new standards are becoming increasingly common, The jump to Wi-Fi 7 can be noticed in faster downloads and lower latency. when working in the cloud, playing online games, or making high-quality video calls. Although Wi-Fi 7 availability depends on the country and carrier, the iPad Air's hardware is ready to take advantage of it as soon as it becomes widespread.
Models with mobile connectivity incorporate the C1X modem, designed by Apple for 5G and LTEThe company claims it offers up to 50% faster data speeds and up to 30% lower energy consumption compared to the previous iPad Air with a modem. This is especially relevant for those who rely on mobile connectivity throughout the day, such as professionals who travel between meetings, university students, or users who frequently work remotely.
In addition to 5G, cellular models maintain Integrated GPS and eSIM compatibilityThis makes it easier to sign up for or change your plan without a physical card, something already quite common in Europe. For those traveling within the EU or abroad, being able to activate a local data plan directly from the iPad is a convenient and often cheaper option.
iPadOS 26: New interface, windows, and improved file management
The new iPad Air arrives ready for iPadOS 26, a version that reinforces the iPad's focus as a work toolThe interface introduces a new visual language called Liquid Glass, with translucent elements that adapt to the content and user interaction, bringing more clarity to what is on the screen.
One of the most notable new features is the New windowing system, allowing for more flexible app organization and switching. without losing the typical iPad simplicity. In addition, there's a menu bar at the top, from which you can access the main commands of each application, either with your finger or with the Magic Keyboard cursor.
The Files app also receives a major update: Improved list view, more customizable folders, and the ability to create folders in the DockThis allows for quick access to downloads, documents, or ongoing projects. Additionally, it lets you select default apps to open certain file types, a much-requested change for iPad users.
iPadOS 26 also includes a dedicated Preview app, very useful for annotate PDFs, sign documents, or make minor adjustments to images with the Apple Pencil or with your fingers. And, for those who work with audio and recording, the system offers more control over sound input, high-quality local capture, and the ability to run background tasks with fewer limitations.
Continuity of design, 11 and 13-inch screens and familiar cameras
There are no revolutions in the physical design. The new iPad Air maintains... the flat-edge design, the Touch ID sensor in the power button, and the USB-C portThe screen remains an LCD panel with brightness up to 500 nits, sufficient for indoor use and most mobile situations.
Apple maintains Two screen sizes: 11 and 13 inchesThe more compact model is aimed at those who prioritize lightness and portability, while the 13-inch model offers a more generous work area for split-screen viewing, video editing, or more comfortable use of the Apple Pencil. Both models feature horizontally arranged stereo speakers and microphones designed for video calls and recording.
There are no major changes to the camera system either, but it's a solid setup for a tablet. The iPad Air debuts a front camera in horizontal format The 12-megapixel camera features Center Stage, which improves framing in video calls when using the device with a keyboard. The rear camera is also 12 megapixels, designed for digitizing documents, capturing occasional photos, or recording high-definition video.
Colors, storage, and prices: the barrier to entry remains.
Apple hasn't changed the basic pricing structure, making it easier to compare with previous generations. The new iPad Air is available in Four finishes: blue, purple, starlight, and space gray, and offers the same capacity options as before: 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB and 1 TB.
In the international market, reference prices remain at 649 euros for the 11-inch Wi-Fi model and 849 euros for the 13-inch modelTo this must be added the corresponding surcharge for models with cellular connectivity. Although the final prices in Europe and Spain will depend on taxes and currency exchange rates, they are expected to be in line with the previous generation, maintaining a mid-to-high-range positioning.
The company has set the launch schedule with Reservations begin on Wednesday, March 4th through its website and official app starting at 15h AMThe first units will be available in stores and from distributors a week later, on Wednesday, March 11. This timeframe is similar to that of other recent iPad launches, allowing users to plan their purchases, especially in professional and educational settings.
Beyond the marketing, the new iPad Air with M4, 12 GB of memory and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity reinforces the role of this range as the balanced option in the catalog: It maintains competitive pricing compared to the iPad Pro, but adds more than enough performance for content editing, advanced multitasking, and AI., along with a set of accessories and new iPadOS features that make it especially attractive for those looking for a versatile tablet in Spain and the rest of Europe without having to go for the most expensive model.