Apple Launches New MacBook Air with M4 Chip - Latest News

Apple Unveils Updated MacBook Air with M4 Chip

On Wednesday, Apple expanded its laptop offerings with a new MacBook Air, now available on the company’s website. This iteration delivers enhanced performance while preserving the well-known design aesthetic.

New M4 Chip and Display Options

The latest MacBook Air is powered by Apple’s M4 chip, representing the newest addition to the highly regarded M-series chip family.

Customers now have a choice between two screen sizes. A 13-inch and a 15-inch display are both available for selection.

The starting price for the 13-inch model is $999, a reduction of $100 from the previous starting price of $1,099.

Pre-orders are being accepted starting today, with shipments scheduled to begin on Wednesday, March 12.

Memory and Connectivity

The base configuration continues to include 16GB of RAM, mirroring last year’s model. This ensures the entry-level MacBook Air meets the requirements for Apple Intelligence.

Users can configure their laptop with up to 32GB of built-in memory during the purchase process.

While previous models featured two Thunderbolt 3 ports, Apple has upgraded these to Thunderbolt 4.

These upgraded ports allow for connection of up to two external displays, alongside the laptop’s integrated display.

A MagSafe 3 charging port and a standard 3.5mm headphone jack are also included.

Enhanced Features and Color Options

The webcam has been improved and now incorporates Center Stage, a feature that automatically frames the speaker during video calls.

A new color option, sky blue, has been introduced alongside the existing colors of midnight, starlight, and silver.

MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro

Despite being lighter and more affordable than the MacBook Pro, certain compromises are made.

The MacBook Pro offers extended battery life and a superior mini-LED display with a higher pixel density.

Continued Popularity and M4 Transition

The MacBook Air remains a consistently strong seller, offering a compelling combination of performance and value.

The M4 update, while not a revolutionary change, is expected to sustain robust sales figures, similar to those seen with the M3 MacBook Air.

Apple initially unveiled the M4 chip with the iPad Pro in May 2024.

Over the past year, the company has been progressively integrating the M4 chip across its product line.

The MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, and iMac now feature M4 chips, or their Pro and Max variations.