The Apple iPad Air 13 (2025), also known as the 7th‑generation iPad Air (M3), launched globally on March 12, 2025, following its announcement on March 4, 2025. It expands the Air lineup with a larger 13‑inch version while maintaining the established 11‑inch model.
Design & Display
- Dimensions & Build: Slim at just 6.1 mm thick, with a weight of around 616 g (Wi‑Fi) and 617 g (5G).
- Display: A 13‑inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD, offering 2048 × 2732 px resolution (~264 ppi) and typical brightness up to 600 nits. Despite previous expectations from the 2024 models, the refresh rate remains capped at 60 Hz, which has ignited some criticism.
Performance
- Chip: Powered by the Apple M3 chip, featuring an 8‑core CPU (4 performance + 4 efficiency cores), a 9‑core GPU, and a Neural Engine—marking the Air’s first use of this high-performance silicon.
- Performance Gains: Advertised as up to twice as fast as the M1-based iPad Air models, the M3 enhances CPU, GPU, and machine learning capabilities.
- Memory & Storage: Comes with 8 GB RAM, and storage tiers ranging from 128 GB to 1 TB.
Cameras & Audio
- Rear Camera: 12 MP wide camera capable of shooting up to 4K at 60 fps, with HDR and gyro‑EIS.
- Front Camera: 12 MP ultrawide selfie camera with Center Stage, also supports 1080p FaceTime video.
- Audio: Stereo speakers; no 3.5 mm headphone jack.
Connectivity & Extras
- Ports & Wireless: USB‑C 3.1 Gen 2 port with DisplayPort functionality and magnetic connector is standard.
- Wireless: Wi‑Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and cellular models include sub‑6 GHz 5G.
- Security & Sensors: Touch ID integrated in the power button, accelerometer, gyro, compass, barometer.
Software & Features
- Operating System: Ships with iPadOS 18.3.2, upgradable up to iPadOS 18.5.
- Apple Intelligence: Introduces AI features such as Clean Up (Photos), Genmoji, interactive Siri with ChatGPT‑like capabilities, and more.
Battery
- Capacity: Houses a 9705 mAh (36.59 Wh) battery in the 13‑inch model.
Pricing & Availability
- Pricing (128 GB Wi‑Fi):
- 11‑inch: $599 (~€699 / £599)
- 13‑inch: $799 (~€949 / £799)
- Cellular variants:
- 11‑inch: $749 (~€869 / £749)
- 13‑inch: $949 (~€1,119 / £949)
- Release & Pre‑orders: Pre‑orders began early March; deliveries and availability began March 12, 2025.
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Critiques & Reception
- Praise: Reviewers highlight the M3’s strong performance boost, efficient energy use, and enriched AI capabilities as strong selling points.
- Drawbacks: Persistent criticism around the unchanged 60 Hz LCD display, which is seen as outdated compared to ProMotion screens in competitors or Pro models.
- User Feedback:“60 Hz only—at this price, there are better Samsung alternatives.”
“1 k for an iPad with a 60 Hz, 600‑nit LCD and no flash—still?! Wild.”
Quick Spec Comparison: Apple iPad Air 13 (2024 vs 2025)
| Feature | iPad Air 13 (2024, M2) | iPad Air 13 (2025, M3) |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | M2 with 9‑core GPU | M3 with improved CPU/GPU and ML performance |
| Refresh Rate | 60 Hz LCD | 60 Hz LCD (unchanged) |
| AI Features | Limited | Full Apple Intelligence suite |
| Release | May 15, 2024 | March 12, 2025 |
Bottom Line
The iPad Air 13 (2025) is a compelling mid-range tablet that brings the powerful M3 chip to the Air series, making it a standout choice for creative and productivity tasks. However, Apple’s choice to retain the same 60Hz LCD panel may leave users craving smoother visuals disappointed. If performance and AI tools are top priorities—and you can live without a high refresh rate—this machine delivers impressive value for the price.
