Apple has unveiled a new iPad that’s thinner and slightly larger than its current entry-level tablet.
The new iPad Air will cost $499 and sport a screen that measures 10.5 inches diagonally. That compares with the standard, 9.7-inch iPad, which Apple will still sell for $329.
“iPad Air brings more of our most powerful technologies to more people than ever,” Apple says.
“The A12 Bionic chip with Neural Engine. A 10.5‑inch Retina display with True Tone. Support for Apple Pencil and the Smart Keyboard. And at just one pound and 6.1 mm thin, carrying all that power is effortless.”
Apple has higher-end Pro models starting at $999. The new iPad Air has several features found in older Pro models, but not the latest. For instance, the iPad Air has a home button with a fingerprint sensor, while the latest Pro ditches that to make more room for the screen.
“iPad Air features a large 10.5‑inch Retina display, while remaining extremely portable and perfect for getting things done anywhere,” Apple says.
“It’s thin and light, and features advanced wireless connectivity. And with up to 10 hours of battery life, iPad Air can go all day on a single charge.”
Apple is also refreshing its 7.9-inch iPad Mini for the first time in more than three years.
In the past, Apple has sometimes used older chips in the Mini, saving the latest technology for the larger models instead. This time, the Mini will have the same chip as the Air, along with support for the Apple Pencil stylus. But the Mini won’t have an optional keyboard attachment, unlike the new Air and Pro models.
The Mini will cost $399, more expensive than the larger, but older 9.7-inch iPad.
