When Was the iPad Air 3 Made? A Deep Dive for Apple Enthusiasts

The iPad Air 3 was meticulously engineered and released to the public in March 2019. It represented a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the iPad Air 2, and bridged the gap between the standard iPad and the more powerful iPad Pro line at the time.

A Look at the iPad Air 3’s Timeline

Understanding the iPad Air 3’s creation and release involves looking at the broader context of Apple’s iPad evolution. The iPad Air line has always aimed for a balance between performance and portability. The iPad Air 3 delivered on this promise with notable improvements in processor power and display technology.

Key Development Dates

• Development Phase: Apple likely began the design and development of the iPad Air 3 well before its official release. Design processes, prototyping, component sourcing, and software integration all require a substantial amount of time. We can estimate that development began sometime in late 2017 or early 2018.
• Announcement and Release: Apple officially unveiled the iPad Air 3 in March 2019. The device went on sale shortly thereafter, becoming available through Apple’s online store and authorized retailers.

Notable Features and Innovations

The iPad Air 3 brought several key enhancements to the table:

• A12 Bionic Chip: A significant leap in processing power compared to the iPad Air 2. This chip facilitated smoother multitasking, enhanced gaming performance, and overall faster operation.
• Retina Display with True Tone: The display offered improved color accuracy and automatically adjusted the white balance to match the ambient lighting, making viewing more comfortable in different environments.
• Apple Pencil (1st Generation) Support: This was the first time the iPad Air line supported the Apple Pencil, opening up new possibilities for creative users.
• Improved Camera: While not the primary focus, the cameras received upgrades, offering better photo and video quality.

Why Understanding Release Dates Matters

Knowing the release date of a device like the iPad Air 3 is important for several reasons:

• Software Updates: Older devices eventually cease receiving software updates. Knowing the age of your device helps you understand how much longer it will be supported by Apple.
• Battery Life: Battery life degrades over time. The age of an iPad directly impacts the expected battery performance.
• Market Value: The release date strongly influences the resale value of the device. Older models typically depreciate faster.
• Compatibility: Knowing the age helps determine compatibility with newer accessories and software.

iPad Air 3 FAQs

1. What operating system did the iPad Air 3 launch with?

The iPad Air 3 launched with iOS 12.1.4, offering a modern and user-friendly experience right out of the box.

2. Can the iPad Air 3 be upgraded to the latest iPadOS?

Yes, the iPad Air 3 is compatible with iPadOS 17, the latest version. This ensures users can enjoy the newest features and security updates. However, it’s important to remember that as new versions of iPadOS are released, older devices may eventually stop receiving support.

3. How does the A12 Bionic chip in the iPad Air 3 compare to other chips?

The A12 Bionic was a powerhouse at the time of the iPad Air 3’s release. It offered a considerable performance boost compared to the A8X chip in the iPad Air 2, and it was comparable to the A12X Bionic found in the 2018 iPad Pro. The A12 Bionic provided excellent speed and efficiency for everyday tasks, gaming, and creative applications.

4. What are the storage options available for the iPad Air 3?

The iPad Air 3 was available in two storage configurations: 64GB and 256GB.

5. Does the iPad Air 3 support cellular connectivity?

Yes, the iPad Air 3 was offered in both Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + Cellular models. The cellular models allow you to connect to the internet even when Wi-Fi is not available, provided you have an active cellular data plan.

6. Is the iPad Air 3 compatible with the Smart Keyboard?

Yes, the iPad Air 3 is compatible with Apple’s Smart Keyboard. This allows you to easily transform your iPad into a portable workstation for typing and productivity.

7. What is the screen size and resolution of the iPad Air 3?

The iPad Air 3 features a 10.5-inch Retina display with a resolution of 2224 x 1668 pixels.

8. How long did Apple sell the iPad Air 3 for?

Apple sold the iPad Air 3 from March 2019 until March 2020, when it was replaced by the iPad Air 4.

9. Is the iPad Air 3 still a good buy in [Current Year]?

Whether the iPad Air 3 is a good buy depends on your needs and budget. It’s still a capable device for many everyday tasks, but newer iPads offer more powerful processors, improved displays, and longer software support. If you need a budget-friendly iPad for basic tasks, the iPad Air 3 could be a viable option, especially if purchased used. However, for more demanding tasks or long-term use, a newer model might be a better investment.

10. What are the main differences between the iPad Air 3 and the iPad Air 4?

The iPad Air 4 brought significant upgrades over the iPad Air 3. Key differences include:

• Processor: A14 Bionic (Air 4) vs. A12 Bionic (Air 3) – a substantial performance improvement.
• Design: A more modern, edge-to-edge display with a squared-off design.
• Apple Pencil Support: Second-generation Apple Pencil (Air 4) vs. first-generation Apple Pencil (Air 3).
• Charging Port: USB-C (Air 4) vs. Lightning (Air 3).
• Display: Larger 10.9-inch display (Air 4) vs. 10.5-inch display (Air 3).
• Smart Connector Location: Moved to the back of the device (Air 4), allowing for compatibility with the Magic Keyboard.

11. What accessories are compatible with the iPad Air 3?

The iPad Air 3 is compatible with a range of accessories, including:

• Apple Pencil (1st Generation)
• Smart Keyboard
• Various cases and screen protectors
• Bluetooth keyboards and mice
• Lightning-based accessories (adapters, charging cables, etc.)

12. Where can I find the model number for my iPad Air 3?

You can find the model number of your iPad Air 3 in several places:

• On the back of the iPad: Look for the small print near the bottom.
• In Settings: Go to Settings > General > About. The model number will be listed there. You might see a number that starts with “A,” followed by four digits (e.g., A2152).
• On the original packaging: If you still have the box, the model number is usually printed on a label.

Knowing the specific model number can be helpful when searching for accessories or troubleshooting issues.