iPad Air gets M1 update
New model is 60% faster, with 2x better graphics
The iPad Air has taken another step closer towards iPad Pro parity, with the new fifth-gen model now sporting an Apple silicon M1 chip. Unveiled during the Peek Performance event in March, the 2022 iPad Air now has 60% faster performance than its A14 Bionic-powered predecessor as well as twice the graphics power, thanks to its 8-core GPU.
Available in five colours – Space Grey, Starlight, Pink, Purple and Blue – the iPad Air starts at £569 for the Wi-Fi-only 64GB model (£10 cheaper than before) with the step-up 256GB version costing £719. Wi-Fi+Cellular models are also available at £719 (64GB) and £869 (256GB) and now come with 5G for super-fast mobile data connections. The fifth-gen iPad Air also gets a new 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Centre Stage. Previously only available on the iPad Pro, Centre Stage automatically keeps you in the centre of the frame during video calls and can even keep focus on multiple subjects, making it ideal for family and friend chats via FaceTime.
In addition, the iPad Air’s 12MP Wide back camera also now benefits from Smart HDR, making it easier than ever to shoot highly dynamic photos and videos.
For even more on this impressive iPad update, see our in-depth review on p78.