Apple’s 2025 iPad Air May Introduce M3 Chip and 90Hz Display, With Potential for Broader Integration

Apple currently restricts all of its non-high-end devices to a 60Hz display, reserving 120Hz panels, branded as ProMotion, for its premium ‘Pro’ models. In fact, the company could be making a sizable shift in strategy between next year and beyond, which is because both the iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Plus might at least come with the same LTPO OLED tech as the iPhone 17 Pro and the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Also, the new M3 iPad Air is said to have a 90Hz display.

More About the 2025 iPad Air

The rumor was relayed by an unspecified source on the Upgrade podcast, while 9to5Mac claimed that the fall debut of the M3 chipset in the iPad Air would be paired with the 90-Hz display. While the display technology should still be LCD to keep the price low, it will be the first time in a non-Pro version that introduces smoother scrolling and other advantages. In addition, this technology is expected to reach more than one product line, as it is also expected to be incorporated into the new 24-inch iMac and a new Studio Display.

Considering that competitors have offered 90Hz, 120Hz, and even 144Hz displays at a range of price points for quite some time, it was a bit odd for Apple to wait until now to bring these upgrades to lower-end gear. It would have been preferable for the 2025 iPad Air to feature the M4 chip instead of the older M3; however, Apple may want to utilize existing chipset inventory wisely rather than equipping a budget-friendly tablet with a more powerful SoC.

The rumor does not clarify whether the 90Hz panel will be capable of dynamically reducing its refresh rate to 60Hz during non-intensive activities on the 2025 iPad Air. Without LTPO technology, however, this upgrade may lead to greater battery drain compared to the Liquid Retina IPS LCDs that were used in M2 models. As a result, the new battery size for the iPad Air could have to be just a bit larger if Apple wants to retain roughly the same battery life on its updated iPad Air lineup. Nonetheless, as this remains speculation, it’s prudent to take this information with caution and await further updates.

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