Apple has refreshed the Magic Keyboard for iPad Air, but it still lacks advanced features such as backlighting, haptic feedback and a sturdier aluminum case.
Apple redesigned the Magic Keyboard alongside the M4 iPad Pro tablets in 2024, giving it some laptop vibes with features like a larger trackpad with haptic feedback, a 14-key function row, backlit keys and an aluminum top case.
It’s now refreshed the Magic Keyboard for the fourth-generation iPad Air and later to make it more in line with the Magic Keyboard for the M4 iPad Pro; still, the accessory continues to lack backlighting, haptic feedback and an aluminum top case.
It does have a 14-key function row, a larger trackpad, and a lower starting price: the 11-inch version now costs $269, while its 13-inch counterpart is $319. You can pre-order the new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air from Apple’s website. Shipments and retail availability will start on Wednesday, March 12.
Apple updates the Magic Keyboard for all iPad Air models
“The all-new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air expands what users can do at an even lower price,” reads Apple’s announcement. “The larger built-in trackpad brings greater precision for detail-oriented tasks, and a new 14-key function row allows easy access to features like screen brightness and volume controls.”
Like the previous version, the updated Magic Keyboard attaches magnetically to the iPad Air via the Smart Connector instead of Bluetooth. For wired charging, there’s a USB-C port built into the keyboard hinge. For further information about all iPad keyboards Apple offers, visit apple.com/ipad-keyboards.
Aside from the updated keyboard, Apple also refreshed the budget iPad and the iPad Air today. The new iPad Air with the M3 chip brings a 20 percent faster performance compared with the M2 iPad Air, released in May 2024.
The updated budget iPad still starts at $350 but now offers double the base storage (128GB instead of 64GB) and the A16 chip instead of the A14 for a 30 percent faster performance. However, the A16 doesn’t support Apple Intelligence.
Pricing and availability
The new Magic Keyboard for iPad Air is only available in white. It’s cheaper than before, starting at $270 for the 11-inch version and $320 for its 13-inch counterpart. For education, the 11-inch version is available for $250 and the 13-inch one is priced at $400. You can pre-order yours from Apple’s website before retail availability starts on Wednesday, March 12.