【】

Apple revealed its latest iPad Air model during its "Peek Performance" event, featuring Apple's impressive M1 chip, a new front-facing camera, and 5G connectivity.

The latest available iPad Air colors, featuring the new blue. Credit: Apple

Previously, the only tablet that housed the M1 chip was the pricey iPad Pro. With the new chip, the iPad Air will have faster graphics performance, all-day battery life, better AR features, Smart HDR photos, and more,

Prime Day deals you can shop right now

Products available for purchase here through affiliate links are selected by our merchandising team. If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission.

• iRobot Roomba Combo i3+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum and Mop—$329.99(List Price $599.99)

• Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 10.9" 64GB Wi-Fi Tablet—$169.99(List Price $219.99)

• Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Gen With MagSafe USB-C Charging Case—$189.99(List Price $249.00)

• Eero 6 Dual-Band Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System (Router + 2 Extenders)—$149.99(List Price $199.99)

• Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS, 41mm, Midnight, S/M, Sports Band)—$299.00(List Price $399.00)

The iPad Air will also feature a new 12 MP ultra-wide front camera, allowing for Center Stage compatibility. This camera feature lets the iPad Air self-adjust as more people come into screen or as you move around the room, keeping you in focus while on FaceTime. The camera addition makes the iPad Air the final iPad to be compatible with Center Stage.

Mashable Light SpeedWant more out-of-this world tech, space and science stories?Sign up for Mashable's weekly Light Speed newsletter.By signing up you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Thanks for signing up!

The new iPad Air with compatible Magic Keyboard.Credit: Apple

Overall, the new iPad Air goes for speed. With 5G, Apple hopes to ramp up connectivity no matter where you're using it. It also boasts an updated USB-C port that should allow for faster transferring of photos and files. The tablet also packs the usual 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, runs iPadOS 15, and is compatible with the Smart Keyboard Folio, Magic Keyboard, and the second-generation Apple Pencil.

SEE ALSO:Apple goes green with 'bold' new colors for its iPhone 13, iPad Air models

The iPad Air is available is in 64 GB or 256 GB models, comes in Space Gray, Starlight, pink, purple, and a new blue color, and will start at $599. Preorders begin this Friday, with availability starting March 18.

TopicsApple