Apple’s iPad Air to Feature M3 Chip While M4 Reserved for iPad Pro for Distinct Performance Difference

Apple is gearing up to unveil its next-generation iPad Air lineup, which promises to incorporate an upgraded chip while maintaining the same design as its predecessor. Despite the recent introduction of the iPad Pro featuring an M4 chip, many consumers are eagerly anticipating enhancements in the iPad Air series. This model is expected to deliver notable upgrades at a more accessible price point compared to the Pro line. Recently, a reliable leaker confirmed that the forthcoming iPad Air will leverage Apple’s custom M3 chip, a notable change from last year’s skipped upgrade in the iPad Pro.

Upcoming iPad Air to Feature M3 Chip, Maintaining Distinction from Pro Models

Previous speculation suggested that Apple might leap from the current iPad Air to the M4 chip, aligning it with the Pro series. However, the decision to use the M3 chip emphasizes Apple’s intention to preserve a clear distinction between the iPad Air and iPad Pro models. Historically, there have been brief instances where both models shared the same chip; however, this practice was soon abandoned in favor of separate upgrades. The last known configuration had the iPad Air upgraded to the M2 chip while the Pro series transitioned to M4.

Noteworthy insider Evan Blass recently shared valuable insights regarding the new iPad Air and its core chip. He revealed indications regarding the entry-level iPad, which may potentially utilize an A17 Pro chip as Apple endeavors to integrate advanced capabilities across all its devices. An image released by Blass on a private social media platform suggested the existence of source code referring to unreleased 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air models, as well as the entry-level iPad 11. While the origins of this information remain unspecified, Blass has a history of providing accurate details concerning Apple products.

Leak suggests iPad Air will come with an M3 chip instead of M4 chip on iPad Pro

The recent leak implies that the upcoming iPad Air is set to include the M3 chip rather than the M4. Still, it remains uncertain which course Apple will ultimately take. Opting for the M4 chip could potentially reduce TSMC’s supply of 3nm chips, manufactured using the N3B process, which have been noted for their low yield rates. Additionally, the leaked information does not clarify whether the new iPad 11 will be equipped with the A17 Pro or a previous-generation chip. According to noted analyst Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, the iPad 11 could indeed feature the A17 Pro, although this upgrade would align its pricing closer to that of the iPad mini 7, making it more expensive than the budget option.

In addition to the iPad updates, the leak briefly mentioned the next iPhone SE 4, although no further information was provided. However, expectations are building that all these devices may be launched together in the upcoming Spring season. Recent reports suggest that an announcement could take place in April, although definitive details remain lacking. Given these developments, do you believe Apple should equip the iPad Air with the same chip as the iPad Pro?

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