Apple Announces New iPad Air

Since the iPad Air was first revealed in 2013, it has filled a sweet spot with customers who want a modest upgrade over the base model full-size iPad but don't need the power user features of Apple's Pro line of mobile tablets. Today, Apple announced the 5th iteration of lightweight tablet with a heavy comparison to laptop computers in its price range.

iPad Pilot News year in review—2021

Over a decade after the iPad's introduction, aviation continues to be a poster child for the power and flexibility of the world's best-selling tablet. This year saw major updates from Apple in both hardware and software, plus plenty of news from app developers and accessory manufacturers. Here are some of the biggest stories from 2021.

Pilot Report: Flying with the new iPad mini 6

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We took the all-new iPad mini 6 out for a test flight to see how it compares to other iPad models. Here's a look at the new features, our initial impressions and mounting options for securing it in the cockpit.

Apple announces new iPad mini 6 along with iPhone 13

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There's finally a new iPad mini. Two and a half years after introducing the iPad mini 5, Apple unveiled the sixth generation 8" tablet at their "California Streaming" event this week. Some had worried that the smallest iPad model, long the most popular option for pilots, might be going away but this update should ensure its survival for at least a few more years. Here's a look at what's new.

New podcast episode discusses aviation apps, weather briefings and iPad safety

Has the iPad made flying safer? What counts as a legal weather briefing these days? And what are the latest trends in aviation apps? Join Bret Koebbe, Editor at iPad Pilot News, in Sporty's new Fast Five podcast as he shares his tips for integrating an iPad into primary flight training, flying with datalink weather, and using flight simulators to learn a new app.

Apple announces iPadOS 15: First look at the new features

Apple took the wraps off iOS 15 and iPadOS 15 during their annual developer conference today and showed off many of the new features that will be coming to Apple devices later this year. Here's a quick overview of what's new in the iPad version of the software and how pilots might be able to use some of these features in the cockpit.

New FAA guidance defines role of iPad apps in preflight weather briefings

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The FAA recently released a new Advisory Circular with practical advice on how to complete a self-weather briefing using the latest technology. Here's a review of what's included in the AC and key takeaways found in the new guidance.

New iPhone 12 Gets Better Screen and LiDAR From iPad

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In their yearly tradition, Apple has announced the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro during their fall release schedule. This new iPhone is yet another iteration of the widely popular smart phone and is very similar to the iPhone 11 from last year but with better cameras, an improved display, and faster 5G cellular data among other features.

Pilot’s Guide to iOS 14 and iPadOS 14

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The official versions of iOS 14 and iPadOS 14 are now available for download for your iPhone and iPad. Here are the details pilots need to know, including device compatibility, how and when to update, new features and much more.

New iPads Are An Incremental Improvement For Pilots

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It's that time of year again when Apple lifts the curtain on its latest and greatest iteration of the mobile computing iPad lineup. True to form, the new iPads announced today are the "best yet," but practically speaking provide pilots with only minor improvements over previous versions. Here are some highlights from the announcement.

iPad Pilot News print edition now online

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At least once a year, we release a print version of iPad Pilot News. While you can always read the latest tips and news on our website, sometimes it’s nice to browse a magazine layout. Download the PDF here.
Track log

Sporty’s and ForeFlight launch “virtual poker run” with track logs

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As part of its Virtual Airshow this month, an online celebration of aviation to help ease the pain of a cancelled 2020 AirVenture Oshkosh, Sporty's has partnered with ForeFlight to offer a virtual poker run contest. The goal is to encourage pilots to fly this summer, whether it's a local flight or a long cross-country, and then share it with others. One winner will be awarded a Sentry ADS-B receiver.