The current iPad Air is the seventh generation, released in May 2024

Apple calls it the iPad Air (7th generation), though you will often see it labeled as iPad Air 2024. It comes in two screen sizes — 11 inches and 13 inches — and both use the same M2 chip that powers some MacBook Air models. If you are shopping for an iPad Air right now, this is the one you will find in stores.

The generation number matters mainly if you are comparing it to an older iPad Air you already own or considering a used one. Each generation brings changes to the processor, screen, camera, or other hardware. Knowing which generation you have helps you understand what features are available and whether an upgrade would actually give you something different.

Key Takeaways

  • The current iPad Air is generation 7, released in May 2024, and it comes in 11-inch and 13-inch sizes.
  • The M2 chip in the 2024 model is faster than the M1 chip in the previous generation (2022), but both handle everyday tasks smoothly.
  • Older iPad Air models from 2020 or earlier use different processors entirely and have noticeably fewer features like lower screen brightness and older camera systems.
  • Generation numbers reset or change when Apple redesigns the iPad Air, so comparing by year is sometimes clearer than comparing by generation alone.

How to find out which generation you own

If you already have an iPad Air, you can check the generation in Settings. Open Settings, tap General, then tap About. Look for "Model" — it will show something like "iPad Air (7th generation)" or "iPad Air (5th generation)". The generation number is right there in parentheses.

You can also check the bottom of the device. Older iPad Air models have the generation printed on the back, though the text is small. If you bought it used or are looking at one in a store, the box will say the generation clearly on the front.

What changed between recent generations

The jump from the 6th generation (2022) to the 7th generation (2024) brought the M2 chip, which is noticeably faster for video editing, photo work, and gaming. The 2024 model also added a larger 13-inch option — the 2022 version only came in 11 inches. The camera system got a small upgrade, and the screen brightness increased slightly.

If you own a 5th generation iPad Air (2022) or older, the differences are more substantial. The 5th generation still used the M1 chip and had a smaller 10.9-inch screen. Go back to the 4th generation (2020) and you hit an older design with thicker bezels, a home button, and a much slower processor. The 3rd generation (2019) and earlier are noticeably slower for modern apps and games.

Whether you need to upgrade based on generation

If you own a 6th generation iPad Air from 2022, the 7th generation is a modest upgrade. You will notice the M2 is faster, but not dramatically so for everyday use like email, web browsing, or document editing. The 13-inch size is the bigger draw if you want more screen space. Most people with a 2022 model do not need to upgrade unless they do heavy video or photo work.

If you own a 5th generation or older, an upgrade becomes more worthwhile. Apps run faster, the screen is brighter, and the camera system is significantly better. A 4th generation iPad Air from 2020 will feel noticeably slower when multitasking or opening large files. If your device is three years old or more and you use it daily, upgrading to the current generation usually feels like a real improvement.

Understanding iPad Air versus iPad Pro and regular iPad

The iPad Air sits between the regular iPad and the iPad Pro. The regular iPad is cheaper and slower, aimed at basic tasks. The iPad Pro is more expensive and uses a faster M-series chip (currently the M4), plus it has a better screen and more advanced features like a better camera system and support for more accessories.

The iPad Air uses the same M-series chips as the MacBook Air, which makes it powerful enough for most creative work without the iPad Pro price tag. If you are deciding whether to buy an iPad Air at all, the generation matters less than whether the Air itself fits what you need. But if you are already set on the Air, knowing the generation helps you decide whether to buy the current one or save money on a recent older model.

Where generation numbers come from

Apple has numbered iPad Air generations since the first one in 2013. Each time Apple releases a new version, the generation number goes up by one. This is different from how Apple names some other products — the iPhone, for example, uses names like "iPhone 15" rather than "iPhone 15th generation."

The generation system can be confusing because Apple sometimes skips years between releases. The 6th generation iPad Air came out in 2022, but the 7th generation did not arrive until 2024 — a two-year gap. This does not mean a generation was skipped; it just means Apple did not release a new model in 2023. The generation number only increases when a new model actually ships.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 7th generation iPad Air worth buying over a used 6th generation?

If the price difference is under $150, the 7th generation is worth it for the M2 chip and the 13-inch option. If the used 6th generation is significantly cheaper, it will still handle most tasks well. The real question is whether you need the larger screen or the speed boost for your specific work.

Can I use the same accessories with different iPad Air generations?

Most accessories work across recent generations because the screen size and charging port stayed the same from the 5th generation onward. The 4th generation and earlier used a different design, so cases and some adapters may not fit. Check the product listing before buying to confirm compatibility with your specific generation.

How long will the 7th generation iPad Air get software updates?

Apple typically supports iPad models for about five to seven years of major operating system updates. The 7th generation released in 2024 will likely receive updates through at least 2029 or 2030, though the exact timeline depends on when Apple decides to drop support.

What is the difference between iPad Air 2024 and iPad Air 7th generation?

They are the same device. "iPad Air 2024" refers to the release year, while "7th generation" is the official generation number. Apple uses both names interchangeably, so you will see them listed either way in stores and online.