When upgrading yoru wireless speaker, it’s easy to get caught up in the most groundbreaking features such as Spatial Audio, AI-enhanced voice assistants, HDMI input for home theater sound, and the like. But sometimes it’s the simpler features that you’ll really miss if they’re not there.
I have tested countless wireless speakers throughout my career, so I have plenty of experience with both feature-packed stars and stripped-down Wi-Fi workhorses. At the same time, I am deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem – I use iPhone 16 Pro, MacBook Pro, Apple TV and Apple Music. Therefore, there is one feature that is an absolute dealbreaker for me: AirPlay 2.
so if you’re stepping outside the Sonos ecosystem for the first time and, like me, lean heavily on Apple gadgets, let me explain why this is still a killer feature when choosing among the best wireless speakers.
Arguments for AirPlay
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What is the Apple iPad 11-inch (2025)?
The apple iPad 11-inch (2025) is the latest iteration of Apple’s popular mid-range tablet, continuing to offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price, even without the full suite of Apple Intelligence features initially anticipated.
Released in early 2025, the iPad 11-inch (2025) builds upon the foundation of its predecessors, featuring the M3 chip and a Liquid retina display. While Apple Intelligence features were delayed for wider rollout, the tablet remains a compelling option for users seeking a versatile device for productivity, entertainment, and creative tasks.It maintains the same core design as the 2024 model, focusing on internal upgrades and software refinements.
As of January 17, 2026, the iPad 11-inch (2025) starts at $799 for the 256GB storage configuration, according to Apple’s official website.
What are the key specifications?
The Apple iPad 11-inch (2025) boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and functionality.
- Chip: Apple M3
- Display: 11-inch Liquid Retina display with 2388 x 1668 resolution
- Storage: Available in 256GB and 512GB configurations
- Camera (Rear): 12MP Wide camera
- Camera (Front): 12MP Ultra Wide camera with Center Stage
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) and optional 5G cellular
- Operating System: iPadOS 18
- Dimensions: 9.74 inches (H) x 7.02 inches (W) x 0.19 inches (D)
- Weight: 1.07 pounds (Wi-Fi model)
The M3 chip provides a significant performance boost over previous generations, enabling faster processing speeds and improved graphics capabilities. The Liquid Retina display delivers vibrant colors and sharp details, enhancing the viewing experience. The inclusion of 5G connectivity on select models allows for faster download and streaming speeds on the go.
According to Apple’s specifications released on May 7, 2025, the M3 chip in the iPad 11-inch (2025) delivers up to 30% faster CPU performance compared to the M2 chip in the previous generation.
How does it compare to other iPads?
The iPad 11-inch (2025) sits in the middle of Apple’s iPad lineup, offering a balance between price and performance compared to the iPad Air and iPad Pro.
The iPad Air (5th generation), released in March 2022, is more affordable but features the M1 chip, which is less powerful than the M3 in the iPad 11-inch (2025). The iPad Pro 11-inch (2024) offers a more advanced display with ProMotion technology, a more powerful M4 chip, and additional features like a Thunderbolt/USB 4 port, but comes at a substantially higher price point.
A comparative price breakdown as of January 17, 2026, is as follows: iPad 11-inch (2025) starts at $799, iPad Air (5th generation) starts at $599, and iPad pro 11-inch (2024) starts at $999, according to Apple’s iPad comparison chart.
