Japanese blog Mac Otakara reports that Apple is readying a fifth-generation iPad Air that will boast features similar to the sixth-generation iPad mini. New features are said to include an A15 Bionic chip, 12-megapixel Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage support, 5G for cellular models, and Quad-LED True Tone flash.
The report, which is based on information from the ever-popular “reliable sources,” says the new iPad Air could debut alongside the third-generation iPhone SE in spring 2022.
The new iPad Air is said to feature the same overall design as the current model, including its single-lens rear camera. The current iPad Air (which debuted in October 2020), boasts a 10.9-inch display with slim bezels, a Touch ID power button, and a USB-C port, and is available in multiple color options including Space Gray, Silver, Green, Rose Gold, and Sky Blue.
Apple’s first product event of the year will likely take place in March or April as usual, says Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman, so we may see the new iPad Air and iPhone SE models being announced at that event.
Mac Otakara has an iffy history of the accuracy of its predictions, as it accurately announced the fourth-generation iPad Air would sport a USB-C port, and that the latest 12.9-inch iPad Pro would be slightly thicker for its mini-LED display. However, it missed the boat when it claimed that we’d see new AirPods Pro unveiled in April 2021.