It was recently reported that Apple’s first special event of 2022 could be another virtual affair held in March or April. While the iPhone SE 3 is expected to be the main launch, Apple may also announce its fifth-generation iPad Air this spring. According to a supply chain report today, the device is similar to the sixth-generation iPad mini, features 5G connectivity, and an ultra-wide FaceTime HD camera.
Fifth-gen iPad Air to be powered by A15 Bionic chip, feature support for 5G connectivity
As reported by the Macotakara blog, citing “reliable sources in China”, the 2020 iPad Air will be replaced with a model that keeps the refreshed design but offers “specifications similar” to the iPad mini 6.
The publication further reveals specs include the Apple A15 Bionic chip, 5G connectivity, and improvements to the front-facing camera, which will be upgraded to a 12MP ultra-wide sensor and feature Center Stage.
Introduced with the 2021 iPad Pro, Center Stage is a face-following digital zoom feature that uses the Ultra Wide camera and machine learning to change the way users participate in video calls. As users move around, the camera automatically pans to keep them centered in the frame. Center Stages works with FaceTime and other video conferencing apps to offer an engaging experience for video calls.
The device will also use a similar chassis to the third-generation 11-inch iPad Pro, featuring a twin-lens camera on the back, but it is still believed Apple will continue to use a single-lens camera,
Almost a year after it was announced, the fourth-generation iPad Air is still an excellent device but the changes mentioned in today’s report sound like they will make for a great refresh. It would be ideal if Apple bumps up the base configuration of the device to 128GB this year up from 64GB while keeping the $599 entry-level price point.
There haven’t been a ton of rumors circulating about the 2022 iPad Air so far. In October, after Apple canceled Samsung’s OLED display order for 2022 iPad Air, it was revealed that the device will continue to use an LCD for its display technology as to not clash with the 2022 11-inch iPad Pro which is expected to feature a mini-LED display.
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