The iPad Air is finally getting the M4 chip: How and when to preorder

Source: Mashable Tech

A big upgrade is coming to our favorite iPad. The iPad Air, Apple’s best blend of performance and price, now comes with the M4 chip. This announcement comes ahead of a “special Apple experience” scheduled for 9 a.m. ET on Wednesday, March 4. Apple CEO Tim Cook teased the experience on social media and referenced a Monday, March 2 announcement.

We now know the Monday announcement was the new iPad Air with M4 chip and the iPhone 17e. Previously, the iPad came with the M3 chip, making it a well‑rounded device with the potential to compete with any laptop. So, are you ready to preorder the new tablet? Despite Apple’s announcement today, the tablet isn’t available to preorder yet, but it will be soon.

When can you preorder the new iPad Air M4?

The iPad Air with M4 chip will be available for preorder on Wednesday, March 4 at 6:15 a.m. PT. Apple has already updated the iPad Air’s listing in the Apple Store to reflect the new model.

When does the new iPad Air M4 tablet arrive?

While preorders begin on March 4, the device will be available beginning Wednesday, March 11. That means there’s a one‑week gap between preorder and shipment.

What’s the new price for the iPad Air with M4 chip?

Apple is maintaining the starting price despite the upgrade. The iPad Air with M4 chip starts at $599, the same price as the current iPad Air with M3 chip.

iPad Air deal to shop now

If you like to shop the previous generation at a discount, the iPad Air with M3 chip is currently on sale. You can grab it for $489.99 at Amazon, a savings of $109.01 off the $599 list price. (During Black Friday the price dropped to an all‑time low of $449.) This is a solid deal while the M3 model is still available.