The highly anticipated new MacBook Air featuring the advanced M4 chip is set to launch this Wednesday. In the lead-up to its release, several select publications and popular YouTube channels have shared their initial reviews, providing insights into the laptop's new features and enhancements. Although this year marks a minor spec bump for the MacBook Air, the latest model introduces several noteworthy upgrades beyond the M4 chip.
One of the standout improvements is the upgraded 12-megapixel camera, which now supports the Center Stage feature. This enhancement aims to offer a more engaging video call experience. Additionally, the new MacBook Air supports two external displays while the laptop's lid remains open, an exciting feature for multitaskers. The device is also equipped with Thunderbolt 4 ports and debuts in a striking new Sky Blue color option. In the U.S., the latest-generation 13-inch MacBook Air starts at an attractive price of $999, down from its previous starting point of $1,099.
With the introduction of the M4 chip, Apple has built upon the performance of its predecessors. Prior to the new MacBook Air's launch, the M4 chip was already known to deliver up to 30% faster multi-core CPU performance compared to the M3 chip found in the previous model. Early benchmarks from Geekbench 6 have confirmed this impressive performance increase, even before the review embargo was lifted.
According to Engadget's Devindra Hardawar, the new Center Stage camera represents a modest yet noticeable improvement in video call quality. "The leap to a 12-megapixel Center Stage camera isn't exactly Earth-shattering," he notes, "but I appreciated having a slightly better picture during video calls." While some users may choose to disable the Center Stage feature, its ability to track movement within a room may appeal to many. The updated camera also introduces Desk View, which provides a unique, slightly skewed perspective of the area directly in front of the MacBook Air.
Jason Snell from Six Colors praises Apple's decision to include 16GB of RAM in the base configuration of the MacBook Air for the starting price of $999. "When Apple introduced a winning new flat-with-rounded-corners Air design in 2022, it had to keep selling older models to hit the sub-thousand dollar mark," he explains. "Three years later, Apple is finally able to sell a brand-new Air—with a generous 16GB of unified memory—at that important price." This compelling value proposition is expected to attract a wide range of consumers.
Andrew Cunningham from Ars Technica shares his thoughts on the new Sky Blue finish, stating that while he enjoys the color, he wishes it were more saturated. "The laptop comes in four finishes—the traditional silver, the gold-ish Starlight, Midnight (which is somewhat prone to smudging), and a new Sky Blue option that replaces Space Gray," he remarks. Cunningham notes that while he prefers the Sky Blue hue, he finds Microsoft's version for its Surface devices to be more vibrant.
As the launch date approaches, the reviews and unboxings of the new MacBook Air continue to generate excitement among tech enthusiasts and potential buyers alike. With its enhanced features, impressive M4 chip performance, and a starting price of $999, the new MacBook Air appears poised to make a significant impact in the market. Stay tuned for more updates and detailed reviews as the release day nears.
