This week, Apple CEO Tim Cook shared an intriguing video hinting at an upcoming product launch, emphasizing that "there's something in the Air." The wording and the timing strongly suggest that Apple is preparing to unveil the new M4 MacBook Air models, generating excitement among tech enthusiasts and Apple fans alike.
Apple plans to continue offering the MacBook Air in two sizes: 13 inches and 15 inches. However, we do not anticipate any significant design updates with the upcoming models. Current rumors indicate that the new M4 MacBook Air will maintain an appearance identical to its predecessors. Historically, Apple does not refresh the design of its laptops frequently; the last major redesign of the MacBook Air occurred in 2022, which means it has only been three years since the last update.
While Apple has integrated mini-LED display technology into the MacBook Pro lineup, this advanced feature is likely to remain exclusive to those premium models. The upcoming M4 MacBook Air is expected to stick with the existing Liquid Retina Display technology (also known as LED), similar to the current model. Following the recent refresh of the MacBook Pro, which introduced a nano-texture matte display option, there is a possibility that Apple could offer this feature for the MacBook Air as well, although it remains uncertain.
The M4 chip has already made its debut across multiple Apple devices, including the MacBook Pro, iMac, iPad Pro, and Mac mini. Therefore, it will come as no surprise when it is integrated into the new MacBook Air. The M4 chip boasts up to a 10-core CPU and a 10-core GPU, paired with a 16-core Neural Engine, all built on TSMC's advanced 3-nanometer process. While the M4 chip is set to deliver better performance than the M3, users can expect only modest improvements in both CPU and GPU capabilities, likely up to 25%.
The base configuration of the MacBook Air now starts at 16GB of RAM, a change Apple implemented last year. We do not anticipate any alterations in this regard, and the new models are expected to continue this trend with 16GB as the standard RAM capacity.
With the efficiency enhancements offered by the M4 chip, the MacBook Air could see notable gains in battery life. For instance, the 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro reportedly lasts up to 24 hours while streaming video and 16 hours during web browsing. Such improvements could also be reflected in the new MacBook Air models, making them even more appealing for on-the-go users.
Apple recently upgraded the MacBook Pro with a 12-megapixel front-facing camera, and it is likely that the same enhancement will be applied to the MacBook Air. This new camera is expected to support Center Stage, a feature designed to keep users centered during video calls, as well as Desk View, which offers an overhead perspective of the user's workspace.
The existing MacBook Air models come equipped with two Thunderbolt 3 ports. However, the upcoming models may feature three Thunderbolt 4 ports, providing significant upgrades in speed and connectivity. The new MacBook Pro models support up to two external displays with the lid open, and it’s expected that the MacBook Air will have similar capabilities.
The current M3 MacBook Air starts at $1,099, and there are no rumors suggesting any price changes for the upcoming models. Meanwhile, Apple continues to offer a MacBook Air with an M2 chip, priced at $999. It is possible that the M2 model will be discontinued as the M3 takes its place, although Apple might retain it if the M3 models become too expensive.
While the spotlight is currently on the M4 MacBook Air, Apple may surprise us with other product announcements. Various Apple products featuring "Air" in their name are due for updates, such as the iPad Air, which is expected to receive a refresh this spring, and the AirTags, which are set for an update in 2025.
At this time, Apple does not appear to be planning a spring event this year, following the recent announcement of the iPhone 16e via press release and videos. It is anticipated that the MacBook Air will follow a similar release procedure, with the new devices potentially launching as soon as tomorrow.
Stay tuned for more updates on the MacBook Air and other exciting product launches from Apple!
