Leaks and renders of the upcoming 12.9-inch iPad Air have started to surface. The tech giant is gearing up for a significant refresh in its iPad lineup, with the iPad Pro models stealing the spotlight alongside a larger, redesigned iPad Air.
In this article, we delve into the leaked CAD renders and information about the anticipated 12.9-inch iPad Air, exploring its design changes and expected features.
M2 chip could come to the 12.9-inch iPad Air at a budget-friendly price
The leaked CAD renders, shared by 91Mobiles, offer an intriguing look at the design of the 12.9-inch iPad Air. Despite retaining the familiar aesthetic of the fourth- and fifth-generation models, the larger footprint accommodates a sizable 12.9-inch display. The front of the tablet mirrors the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, albeit with slightly thicker bezels, reminiscent of the 10.9-inch iPad Air.
One of the most notable design changes is the rear camera unit, now protruding in a longer, pill-shaped form. This departure from the traditional single, round camera cutout aligns more with the design language seen in earlier iPhone models, such as the iPhone X and iPhone XS. Interestingly, unlike the dual-camera setup on the iPhone X, the 12.9-inch iPad Air opts for a single camera sensor.
The redesigned camera housing sparks speculation about potential improvements in photography capabilities. However, with only a single camera sensor visible, it remains to be seen how Apple intends to enhance the photography experience on the new iPad Air. The thicker bezels on the front suggest a deliberate visual distinction from the upcoming OLED iPad Pro models.
Rumors point to the 12.9-inch iPad Air being equipped with the M2 chip, promising enhanced computational and graphical performance. This upgrade positions the iPad Air as a powerful mid-range option, catering to users seeking a larger display without the high-end features of the iPad Pro, such as ProMotion or a LiDAR scanner.
While the exact release date remains uncertain, rumors suggest that production could begin in the first quarter of 2024, with a potential launch in March. As for pricing, the 12.9-inch iPad Air is expected to be competitively priced, offering a more affordable alternative to the 12.9-inch iPad Pro, which starts at $1099.
