M4-Powered iPad Air Expected ‘In the Coming Weeks’ Amid Inventory Shortages

Apple is poised to launch an updated iPad Air featuring the M4 chip in the coming weeks, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, as retail stock shortages signal an imminent refresh for the mid-range tablet.

The report, published Feb. 12, 2026, cites declining inventory of the current M3 iPad Air models and the iPhone 16e, a pattern Gurman says typically precedes new product announcements. “Apple retail employees say that inventory of the iPhone 16e has basically dried out and the iPad Air is seeing shortages as well,” Gurman wrote in his Power On newsletter. “I’ve been expecting new versions of both (iPhone 17e and M4 iPad Air) in the coming weeks.”

The next-generation iPad Air — likely designated as the eighth-generation model — is anticipated to upgrade from the M3 processor introduced in March 2025 to the more powerful M4 chip, which debuted in the iPad Pro lineup in 2024 and later in MacBooks. Industry analysts expect the M4 to deliver roughly 20-30% gains in CPU and GPU performance over the M3, enhancing tasks such as video editing, graphic design and AI-driven features under Apple Intelligence.

Additional rumored enhancements include Apple’s custom N1 wireless chip for improved Wi-Fi connectivity, potentially supporting Wi-Fi 7 standards, and faster 5G capabilities via an updated modem. However, major design changes appear unlikely: the device is expected to retain the same slim aluminum chassis, Liquid Retina display (without ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate or OLED), camera setup and RAM configuration as the current models.

The refresh aligns with Apple’s historical spring timing for iPad Air updates. The M3 version arrived in March 2025 alongside a redesigned lineup, while prior generations often launched in March or April. Some reports suggest a possible March 2026 announcement, potentially tied to an Apple event on March 4 in New York City, London and Shanghai — though Apple has not confirmed the event’s focus. That date has fueled speculation about bundled reveals, including the iPhone 17e, entry-level Mac updates or other hardware.

Alongside the iPad Air, Apple is reportedly preparing a 12th-generation base iPad with the A18 chip (up from A16), enabling Apple Intelligence support for the first time on the entry-level model. The iPad mini is slated for a more substantial upgrade later in 2026, including an OLED display.

Pricing for the M4 iPad Air remains unconfirmed, but analysts anticipate a possible modest increase due to component costs and the chip upgrade, starting around the current model’s $599 for the 11-inch version. No official details on storage tiers, colors or accessory compatibility have surfaced.

Fan and consumer reactions on platforms like Reddit and X highlight mixed sentiment: excitement over the performance boost and better future-proofing for AI features, tempered by disappointment that the Air won’t receive the Pro-level display or design innovations. Many current M3 owners question whether the incremental upgrade justifies waiting or upgrading immediately.

Apple has not commented on the rumors or announced any launch plans. The company typically reveals new iPads through press releases or virtual events rather than full-stage keynotes for minor refreshes.

With shortages already reported and Gurman’s timeline pointing to late February or March 2026, potential buyers weighing an M3 iPad Air purchase may benefit from monitoring official channels closely in the coming days.