iPad Air (M4, 2026)
Apple's 2026 iPad Air brings M4 power and larger display options to the mid-tier tablet lineup.
The 2026 iPad Air marks a significant update to Apple's popular mid-range tablet, now featuring the powerful M4 chip and offering both 11-inch and 13-inch display options for the first time.
Apple's decision to bring the M4 chip to the Air is a game-changer. Previously, the Air used the M-series chips from the previous generation, but the 2026 model gets the same processor as the iPad Pro. This means incredible performance for everything from photo editing to gaming, with smooth multitasking thanks to 8GB or 16GB of unified memory.
The new 13-inch option is the headline feature, giving users a larger canvas without stepping up to the Pro's premium price. Both sizes feature Apple's Liquid Retina displays with P3 wide color, 600 nits brightness, and True Tone technology. While they lack the ProMotion 120Hz of the Pro, the displays are still excellent for content consumption and creative work.
Design-wise, the iPad Air maintains its sleek aluminum chassis, now available in new colors including a vibrant purple and sky blue. The Touch ID sensor remains in the power button, and the USB-C port supports external displays up to 6K resolution.
Apple Intelligence is fully supported, bringing AI-powered features like Genmoji, Image Playground, and improved Siri capabilities to the tablet. The 12MP rear camera and 12MP ultra-wide front camera handle photography and video calls well.
Starting at $599 for the 11-inch 256GB model and $799 for the 13-inch, the iPad Air delivers exceptional value, offering most of what the Pro offers at a significantly lower price point.
Pros
- ✓M4 chip performance
- ✓13-inch option available
- ✓Excellent display
- ✓Apple Intelligence support
- ✓Great value vs Pro
Cons
- ✗No ProMotion display
- ✗No LiDAR scanner
- ✗USB-C only (no Thunderbolt)
iPad Air (M4, 2026)
Apple · Tablets · Rating: 4.6/5