Overview
- Preorders are live ahead of the March 11 launch, with first reviews published today characterizing the update as iterative but faster.
- Review testing reports roughly 20–25% CPU gains over the M3 iPad Air and smaller GPU improvements, with the design and 60Hz display unchanged.
- Key hardware upgrades include Apple’s M4 chip, 12GB of unified memory, the N1 wireless chip with Wi‑Fi 7/Bluetooth 6/Thread, and the C1X modem on cellular models.
- Amazon is discounting select Wi‑Fi configurations by up to $100 during preorders, with the 11‑inch base model at $559 and deeper cuts on higher storage tiers; Best Buy matches some offers and provides extra savings for members.
- UK carrier Sky Mobile is offering financed preorders starting at about 53p per day on 48‑month terms with an optional upgrade after 36 months and a 100MB data allowance.