Update: Pricing and Availability
The new iPad Air 5 starts at $599 for the 64GB Wi-Fi model and $749 for the 256GB Wi-Fi model. Cellular models cost an extra $150 for either storage option. Pre-orders start Friday, March 11, with availability beginning Friday, March 18.
Original Article
Apple is widely expected to unveil a smaller, more affordable iPad on Tuesday, March 8, at a special event to be livestreamed from Apple Park in Cupertino. Rumors suggest the new iPad will feature a 10.5-inch display, an improved camera, and a faster processor. But perhaps the biggest question mark surrounding the new iPad is its price.
The Price Tag
Apple's current lineup of iPads starts at $329 for the ninth-generation iPad with a 10.2-inch display. The more powerful iPad Air starts at $599, while the iPad Pro starts at $799. The new iPad is expected to slot in between the iPad and the iPad Air in terms of price.
Many analysts believe the new iPad will start at $399, which would be $70 more than the current entry-level iPad. However, some believe Apple could surprise us with a starting price of $349, which would match the price of the current entry-level iPad.
What's Inside?
In terms of features, the new iPad is expected to feature a larger 10.5-inch display, up from the 9.7-inch display on the current entry-level iPad. It is also expected to have an improved camera, a faster processor, and more storage options. The new iPad could also gain Touch ID in the power button, following the iPad Air and the latest flagship iPhone models.
Wait and See
Ultimately, the pricing of the new iPad remains a mystery until Apple officially unveils the device on Tuesday. However, based on past pricing trends and analyst expectations, it is safe to expect a starting price somewhere between $349 and $399.
