The iPad Air (1st Generation) was released in November 2013 and changed the tablet market with its slim design and lightweight build at just 7.5mm thick and 469 grams. Featuring a 9.7-inch Retina display, it delivers vibrant visuals. Powered by the A7 chip with 64-bit architecture, it offers efficient performance for everyday tasks.
Available in 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB storage options, the iPad Air combines lightness and power, making it a popular choice for users seeking a versatile and stylish device.
Table of Contents
- iPad Air (1st Generation) Key Specifications
- Release Date and Price
- Design and Build Quality
- Display
- Performance and Processor: Powered by the A7 Chip
- Software and Features
- Camera and Audio
- Battery Life: All-Day Power
- Comparison: iPad (9th Generation) vs iPad Air (1st Generation) vs iPad Air 2
- Pros and Cons
- Conclusion
iPad Air (1st Generation) Key Specifications
Release Date and Price
Apple officially released the iPad Air 1st Generation on November 1, 2013. At launch, the base 16GB Wi-Fi model was priced at $499, while the 32GB Wi-Fi model cost $599. For those seeking cellular connectivity, the 16GB Wi-Fi + Cellular version was priced at $629, and the 32GB Wi-Fi + Cellular model was available for $729.
Design and Build Quality
The iPad Air 1st Generation impresses with thin dimensions and weight that enhance portability. Its body measures 240 x 169.5 x 7.5 mm, providing comfort for daily use. Weighing 469 g for Wi-Fi, it feels light in users’ hands. The 478 g cellular version adds slightly more weight but is still comfortable to carry. Its aluminum frame and glass front combine premium design with durable construction quality. Scratch-resistant glass protection and an oleophobic coating reduce daily wear from smudges. This iPad’s Space Gray and Silver color options deliver sleek aesthetics appealing to many users.
Display
The display offers vibrant visuals ideal for videos, reading, and web browsing on its 9.7-inch screen. The resolution of 1536 x 2048 pixels delivers sharpness and detail across all types of content. A 4:3 aspect ratio makes it particularly effective for productivity and work tasks. The 71.6% screen-to-body ratio provides comfortable viewing without unnecessary bezels reducing screen space. With a 264 ppi density, the display ensures text and images are crisp and clean. A sunlight contrast ratio of 2.504:1 offers decent visibility outdoors when brightness is adjusted appropriately.
Performance and Processor: Powered by the A7 Chip
The iPad Air (1st Generation) was powered by the A7 chip with 64-bit architecture, the same processor found in the iPhone 5s. This was Apple’s first 64-bit chip, offering a significant boost in performance and future-proofing the device for upcoming iOS updates.
Paired with the M7 motion coprocessor, the A7 chip delivered impressive performance for the time. Geek Bench 3 standards showed the iPad Air scoring around 1472 in single-core and 2687 in multi-core tests. This made it one of the most powerful tablets on the market in 2013, capable of handling everything from gaming to productivity tasks with ease.
Software and Features
The iPad Air (1st Generation) launched with iOS 7, a significant upgrade of Apple’s mobile operating system that introduced a cleaner, more modern interface. IOS 7 brought new features like Control Center and Airdrop and improved multitasking, making the iPad Air even more versatile as both a media consumption device and a productivity tool.
Camera and Audio
The iPad Air 1st Generation is equipped with a 5MP rear camera that can capture 1080p HD video. While not as advanced as the cameras found on later models, it is adequate for casual photography and video recording. The front-facing 1.2MP FaceTime HD camera supports 720p video calls, making it suitable for video chats with friends and family.
Audio is delivered through dual stereo speakers, providing clear sound for watching videos, listening to music, or making FaceTime calls. While the sound quality may not match the more advanced audio systems found in newer iPads, it remains sufficient for most users’ needs.
Battery Life: All-Day Power
The iPad Air houses an 8600 mAh (32.4 Wh) battery that lasts up to ten hours. Designed for multimedia, its battery performance satisfies users enjoying videos or long browsing sessions. Apple’s power management ensures users get extended usage even when multitasking during the day.
Charging uses a Lightning cable that simplifies the process and maintains convenience for most users. The long-lasting battery makes this iPad appealing to travelers or anyone needing consistent power availability. It remains reliable years after release, provides proper care, and reduces battery stress.
Comparison: iPad (9th Generation) vs iPad Air (1st Generation) vs iPad Air 2
| Feature | iPad (9th Generation) | iPad Air (1st Generation) | iPad Air 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finish | Space Gray, Silver | Space Gray, Silver | Space Gray, Silver, Gold |
| Display | 10.2″ Retina, 2160x1620 resolution, 500 nits, True Tone | 9.7″ Retina, 2048x1536 resolution, 400 nits | 9.7″ Retina, 2048x1536 resolution, 400 nits |
| Chip | A13 Bionic chip with 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU | A7 chip | A8X chip with 3-core GPU |
| Camera (Rear) | 8MP Wide, 1080p video | 5MP Wide, 1080p video | 8MP Wide, 1080p video |
| Camera (Front) | 12MP Ultra Wide, Center Stage | 1.2MP FaceTime HD | 1.2MP FaceTime HD |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours (Wi-Fi), 9 hours (Cellular) | Up to 10 hours (Wi-Fi), 9 hours (Cellular) | Up to 10 hours (Wi-Fi), 9 hours (Cellular) |
| Touch ID | Yes (Home button) | No | Yes (Home button) |
| Apple Pencil Support | Supports Apple Pencil (1st gen) | No | No |
| Smart Keyboard Support | Yes (Smart Connector) | No | No |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac, MIMO | 802.11n | 802.11ac, MIMO |
| Cellular Connectivity | 4G LTE available | 4G LTE available | 4G LTE available |
| Weight (Wi-Fi) | 1.07 pounds (487 grams) | 1 pound (469 grams) | 0.96 pound (437 grams) |
| Weight (Wi-Fi + Cellular) | 1.09 pounds (498 grams) | 1.05 pounds (478 grams) | 0.98 pound (444 grams) |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 256GB | 16GB, 32GB, 64GB | 16GB, 64GB, 128GB |
| Connector | Lightning Connector | Lightning Connector | Lightning Connector |
| Audio | Stereo speakers, Two microphones | Stereo speakers, Two microphones | Stereo speakers, Two microphones |
| Security | Touch ID | No | Touch ID |
| Price Range | More affordable compared to iPad Air models | Affordable (older model) | Slightly higher than Air 1 due to upgraded specs |
For those looking for the most modern performance, the iPad (9th generation) is the best option, offering significant improvements in processing power, camera quality, and overall value. If you are on a budget, the iPad Air (1st generation) or iPad Air 2 can still serve well for basic tasks but are not as future-proof due to their older chips and features.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight, portable design makes carrying it easier during commutes or extended work sessions.
- Sharp, vibrant display enhances the experience of reading, gaming, or streaming favorite shows and movies.
- Battery life provides up to ten hours, perfect for extended multimedia or productivity tasks.
- Reliable performance from the Apple A7 chip made it feel fast when multitasking or browsing.
- Long software support from Apple ensures consistent security updates over its operating system lifecycle.
Cons:
- Limited RAM at 1 GB restricts performance for intensive multitasking compared to more recent devices available.
- Lack of expandable storage means users must carefully manage files or invest in external storage solutions.
- Outdated connectivity standards, such as USB 2.0, create challenges using modern peripherals and equipment.
- Basic camera performance meets casual needs but won’t satisfy users demanding higher-quality imagery.
Conclusion
The iPad Air 1st Generation represented a major leap forward in terms of design and performance when it was released. With its lightweight construction, high-resolution Retina display, and powerful A7 chip, it set a new standard for what a tablet could be.
Although it may not support the latest iOS updates and lacks some of the advanced features found in newer models, the iPad Air remains a solid choice for users seeking a reliable and capable tablet at a reasonable price. Its balance of performance, portability, and value makes it a noteworthy device in the evolution of Apple’s tablet lineup.
FAQs: iPad Air 1st Generation Review: A Lightweight Revolution
Can the iPad Air 1 still download apps?
Yes, the iPad Air 1 can still download apps, but with some limitations. Since the device is running iOS 12, you can download and install apps that are compatible with this version. However, some newer apps may not be available due to the older software. It's best to check the App Store to see if your desired app supports iOS 12.
Is iPad Air 1 or 2 better?
The iPad Air 2 is generally better than the iPad Air 1 in several ways. It comes with a more powerful A8X chip, 2GB RAM (compared to the 1GB in the iPad Air 1), and features a fully laminated display with an anti-reflective coating for better visuals. Additionally, the iPad Air 2 supports Touch ID for enhanced security, while the iPad Air 1 does not. If you're looking for more speed and advanced features, the iPad Air 2 is the better choice.
Can iPad Air Gen 1 be updated?
The iPad Air 1 cannot be updated to the latest versions of iOS, such as iOS 16. It supports up to iOS 12, which means it won't receive any new software updates or features available in newer iOS versions. For the latest iOS features and updates, you would need to upgrade to a newer iPad model.
Can I use Netflix on iPad Air 1?
Yes, you can use Netflix on the iPad Air 1, but there are some limitations. The device supports the Netflix app as long as it's running iOS 12, the latest supported version. You can stream Netflix content, though newer updates to the app might not be available due to the older software. Overall, it still offers a decent streaming experience, but be mindful of potential compatibility issues with future Netflix updates.
Can iPad Air 1 have iOS 16?
No, the iPad Air 1 cannot have iOS 16. The iPad Air 1 is limited to iOS 12, which means it won't support the latest features and updates introduced in iOS 16. To access iOS 16 and beyond, you'll need a newer iPad model that supports the latest software versions.
These answers should help clarify the capabilities and limitations of the iPad Air 1 while addressing your queries in an SEO-friendly manner.
