iPad Air 3: Unveiling the Middle Child of Apple’s Tablet Lineup

The iPad Air 3 graced the market on March 18, 2019. This release brought a breath of fresh air to the iPad Air series, offering a compelling blend of power and portability at a time when tablet technology was rapidly evolving. Let’s delve into the specifics of this release, exploring its features, significance, and legacy.

A Refresher on the iPad Air Lineage

Before diving deep into the iPad Air 3, it’s essential to understand its place within Apple’s tablet ecosystem. The iPad Air line was conceived as a lighter and thinner alternative to the standard iPad, emphasizing portability without sacrificing performance. The first iPad Air, released in 2013, set the stage for this design philosophy. Following iterations saw incremental improvements, but the iPad Air 3 marked a more substantial leap forward.

What Made the iPad Air 3 Special?

The iPad Air 3 wasn’t just another iteration; it was a strategic repositioning of the Air line. Here’s a breakdown of what made it noteworthy:

Performance Boost

One of the most significant upgrades was the inclusion of the A12 Bionic chip. This processor, previously featured in the iPhone XS and XS Max, delivered a substantial performance increase compared to the A8X chip in the iPad Air 2. This meant faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and the ability to handle demanding tasks like video editing and graphic design with ease.

Display Enhancement

The iPad Air 3 boasted a 10.5-inch Retina display with True Tone technology. This display offered vibrant colors, sharp details, and automatically adjusted the color temperature based on ambient lighting, resulting in a more comfortable viewing experience, especially during extended use. The laminated display also reduced glare and improved clarity.

Apple Pencil Support

This was a pivotal feature. The iPad Air 3 gained support for the first-generation Apple Pencil. This opened up a world of creative possibilities for artists, note-takers, and anyone who appreciated the precision and versatility of a stylus. It transformed the iPad Air 3 from a consumption device into a powerful tool for creation.

Smart Keyboard Compatibility

Another key addition was the Smart Keyboard connector. This allowed users to attach Apple’s Smart Keyboard, turning the iPad Air 3 into a more productive device. The keyboard offered a comfortable typing experience and served as a protective cover for the display when not in use.

Design and Portability

Staying true to the Air name, the iPad Air 3 maintained a slim and lightweight design. It was easy to carry around, making it ideal for students, travelers, and anyone who needed a portable computing device. The build quality was excellent, as expected from Apple products.

The iPad Air 3 in the Broader Market

The iPad Air 3 occupied a unique space in the market. It offered a compelling alternative to the entry-level iPad, providing significantly more power and features at a slightly higher price point. It also served as a bridge between the standard iPad and the more expensive iPad Pro models. Its affordability, combined with its performance and Apple Pencil support, made it a popular choice for a wide range of users.

A Look Back: Why It Still Matters

While newer iPad models have since been released, the iPad Air 3 remains relevant for several reasons:

• Affordability: Used or refurbished models are now available at attractive prices, making them a great value for budget-conscious buyers.
• Performance: The A12 Bionic chip is still capable of handling most everyday tasks with ease.
• Functionality: Apple Pencil support and Smart Keyboard compatibility make it a versatile device for both productivity and creativity.
• Software Updates: Even though it’s an older model, the iPad Air 3 still receives software updates from Apple, ensuring compatibility with the latest apps and features.

iPad Air 3: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the iPad Air 3, offering further insights into this enduring tablet:

1. Does the iPad Air 3 support cellular connectivity?

Yes, the iPad Air 3 was available in both Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi + Cellular models. The cellular models allowed users to connect to mobile data networks, providing internet access on the go.

2. What is the storage capacity of the iPad Air 3?

The iPad Air 3 was offered in two storage options: 64GB and 256GB. Users had to choose carefully at the time of purchase, as the storage was not expandable.

3. What colors was the iPad Air 3 available in?

The iPad Air 3 was available in Silver, Space Gray, and Gold.

4. Does the iPad Air 3 have a headphone jack?

Yes, the iPad Air 3 retained the 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature that was absent in some other Apple devices at the time.

5. What is the battery life of the iPad Air 3?

Apple claimed that the iPad Air 3 offered up to 10 hours of battery life for web browsing on Wi-Fi, watching videos, or listening to music.

6. What version of iPadOS did the iPad Air 3 launch with?

The iPad Air 3 launched with iOS 12.2, and it has since been updated to newer versions of iPadOS.

7. Does the iPad Air 3 support the second-generation Apple Pencil?

No, the iPad Air 3 only supports the first-generation Apple Pencil.

8. What is the resolution of the iPad Air 3’s display?

The iPad Air 3 has a Retina display with a resolution of 2224 x 1668 pixels at 264 pixels per inch (ppi).

9. Does the iPad Air 3 have a laminated display?

Yes, the iPad Air 3 features a fully laminated display, which reduces glare and improves clarity.

10. What are the dimensions and weight of the iPad Air 3?

The iPad Air 3 measures 9.8 inches (250.6 mm) in height, 6.8 inches (174.1 mm) in width, and 0.24 inches (6.1 mm) in thickness. The Wi-Fi model weighs 1.0 pound (456 grams), while the Wi-Fi + Cellular model weighs 1.02 pounds (464 grams).

11. Does the iPad Air 3 have Touch ID or Face ID?

The iPad Air 3 features Touch ID, Apple’s fingerprint recognition system, for secure authentication.

12. Is the iPad Air 3 still a good purchase in today’s market?

The answer depends on your needs and budget. If you’re looking for an affordable iPad with good performance, Apple Pencil support, and Smart Keyboard compatibility, a used or refurbished iPad Air 3 can be a great option. However, if you need the latest features and the most powerful performance, you might consider a newer iPad model.