This week on The CultCast: Apple has powered up the new iPad so much, it’s hard to resist! We’ll tell you why we’re so excited. Plus: What you need to know about iOS 11.3; everything Apple revealed at its “field trip” event; a reliable report says Apple Watch Plus is incoming; and you asked, we answer — from the best Home apps, to our Mac mini predictions, to Commando versus Predator, we answer your most burning questions.

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Apple unveiled its cheapest 9.7-inch iPad ever today, only there’s a catch: it’s only the cheapest iPad ever if you meet certain qualifications

Most normal customer won’t qualify for the special $309 price tag and will have to shell out $329 for the Apple Pencil-supported iPad. However, there are still ways to qualify even if you’re not a student.

Apple is ready to unleash a wave of new software for teachers going into the 2018 school year.

At its big “field trip” education event in Chicago today, Apple unveiled a series of new apps and APIs that will make it easier for students and teachers to embrace the iPad. From the redesigned iWork iOS apps to the new ClassKit framework, Apple’s got something new for students, teachers and developers.

Apple has an inspiring message for kids in its latest video that was shared during its educational event in Chicago today .

The inspiring new video talks about how “one person can change the world” by creating something that’s never been created before. While showing a bunch of children playing at school, the ad has voice-overs of the kids giving uplifting messages on how they view the future.

Check it out:

Apple’s first big event of 2018 is practically here! Unlike most Apple keynotes, today’s “field trip” education-oriented event in Chicago won’t be streamed live.

Don’t worry. Cult of Mac will be in attendance and we’ll be live blogging everything with up-to-the-minute info on all the new goodies. Not only is Apple expected to preview some new educational software, but we could also see a new iPad, improved Apple Pencil and maybe even a new MacBook Air.

The keynote starts Tuesday, March 27, at 10 a.m. Central time. So save this page and get ready for Apple’s most mysterious event in years.

The Apple online store is down ahead of today’s big education event, which kicks off at 10 a.m. central time.

Downtime is an indication that Apple is preparing to add new products to its lineup, which could be available to purchase or pre-order later today. Recent rumors have hinted at the arrival of a new MacBook Air and an even more affordable iPad.

Apple today updated its Apple Events app for tvOS ahead of its education event on March 27. You’ll be able to watch a recording of the keynote on your Apple TV to see what’s in store — but only after the event has concluded.

There is no livestream this time.

The Apple Pencil is about to become a lot more accessible to iPad users.

During its field trip event in Chicago next week, Apple will reportedly unveil a cheaper iPad. And according to one of the world’s best Apple analysts, it will work with Apple Pencil.

Apple issued invites Friday for an education-themed event in Chicago on March 27.

The invite promises “creative new ideas for teachers and students.” That could indicate the arrival of more-affordable Apple devices — like the new MacBook Air and iPad we’ve been hearing about.