The Evolution of Apple’s iPad Lineup: Is the ‘Air’ Moniker Still Appropriate?
Introduction:
In 2008, Steve Jobs unveiled the original MacBook Air, a revolutionary device that set the standard for ultra-light, portable computing. Over the years, Apple’s Air lineup maintained its reputation for being light and nimble. However, with the recent introduction of the new iPad Air and iPad Pro models, it seems that the “Air” moniker may no longer be fitting.
The New iPad Air: Heavier and Thicker Than the Pros:
At Apple’s recent “Let Loose” event, two new iPad Air and two new iPad Pro devices were introduced, each available in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes. Surprisingly, the iPad Airs are both heavier and thicker than their Pro counterparts. The 11-inch iPad Air measures 0.24 inches thick and weighs 1.02 pounds, while the 11-inch iPad Pro is slightly thinner at 0.21 inches and weighs only 0.98 pounds. Similarly, the 13-inch iPad Air is 0.24 inches thick and weighs 1.36 pounds, whereas the 13-inch iPad Pro is thinner at 0.20 inches and lighter at 1.28 pounds.
Questioning the ‘Air’ Name:
Considering the increase in weight and thickness of the new iPad Air models, it seems questionable whether they still deserve to be called “Air.” While they are not significantly heavy or bulky, it is worth noting that the 11-inch iPad Air is only marginally lighter than the more affordable 10.9-inch iPad, which starts at $349 compared to the 11-inch Air’s starting price of $599.
Size Differences:
Although the new iPad Air models may not live up to their “Air” name in terms of weight and thickness, they do have a slightly smaller form factor compared to the iPad Pro models. The 11-inch iPad Air measures 9.74 by 7.02 inches, while the 11-inch iPad Pro is slightly larger at 9.83 by 6.99 inches. Similarly, the 13-inch iPad Air measures 11.04 by 8.46 inches, making it shorter and narrower than the 13-inch iPad Pro, which measures 11.09 by 8.48 inches. However, these differences are minimal and may not have a noticeable impact on real-life usage.
The Changing Identity of the iPad Air:
Apple’s Air devices were originally positioned as lighter, thinner, and smaller alternatives to the Pro models. They offered a sense of getting more value for money through reduced weight and size. However, with the new iPad Air models closely resembling the Pro models in terms of weight and thickness, they have become more like slightly cheaper versions of the Pro lineup. This shift in identity raises the question of whether the iPad Air needs a new name to better reflect its current positioning in Apple’s product lineup.
Conclusion:
The introduction of the new iPad Air and iPad Pro models has sparked a debate about the appropriateness of the “Air” moniker. While the new iPad Air models are not significantly heavy or thick, they no longer possess the distinct lightness and slimness that defined the original MacBook Air. As Apple continues to evolve its product lineup, it may be time to reconsider the naming conventions to accurately reflect the characteristics and positioning of each device.
