The iPad Air has maintained the same design since 2020, making it Apple's longest-running tablet design. The fourth-generation model introduced flat sides, an all-screen front, and Touch ID in the top button, but subsequent M1, M2, M3, and M4 updates brought only internal changes.

That could change in 2027 when Apple is expected to move the iPad Air to OLED displays. Samsung Display will reportedly supply single-stack LTPS panels positioned below the tandem OLED in the iPad Pro on cost and brightness. An M5 chip is also rumored, marking the largest product change in years.

The upgrade mirrors the iPad Pro's 2024 transition to OLED, which prompted a complete redesign with a substantially thinner chassis. More immediately, the iPad mini 8 is expected by October with a new enclosure, OLED display, vibration-based speaker system eliminating speaker holes, and water-resistant casing — an iPad first.

Since the iPad Air and mini have shared design language since 2021, the mini's anticipated redesign makes the Air the obvious candidate to adopt the same enclosure next year. If it follows the mini's lead, the Air could gain the same vibration-based speaker system and water resistance.