Design and Display
Apple is gearing up to introduce its latest MacBook Air lineup, hinted at through a teaser video featuring the phrase “there’s something in the Air.” Industry speculation suggests that this points to the arrival of new MacBook Air models powered by the M4 chip.
The upcoming MacBook Air will continue to be available in both 13-inch and 15-inch sizes. No significant design modifications are expected, as Apple typically retains a particular aesthetic for a few years before making drastic changes. The last major design update occurred in 2022, making it unlikely that Apple will introduce a new look this year.
Regarding display technology, the MacBook Air is expected to retain the same Liquid Retina Display (LED) featured in previous models. Unlike the MacBook Pro, which utilizes a mini-LED screen, the MacBook Air is likely to maintain its existing display standard. Apple recently introduced a nano-texture matte display upgrade option for the MacBook Pro, and while it remains uncertain, there is speculation that the MacBook Air might also offer this as an optional feature.
Performance and Hardware Upgrades
The most significant update in the upcoming New MacBook Air models is expected to be the inclusion of Apple’s M4 chip. Already featured in various Apple products, including the MacBook Pro, iMac, iPad Pro, and Mac mini, the M4 chip boasts a 10-core CPU and a 10-core GPU, along with a 16-core Neural Engine. It is built on TSMC’s upgraded 3-nanometer process, optimizing efficiency and performance. While the M4 will surpass the M3 in terms of speed, the upgrade is anticipated to bring moderate enhancements rather than revolutionary changes.
Apple made a notable shift last year by increasing the base RAM for New MacBook Air models from 8 GB to 16 GB. This standard is expected to continue with the M4 models, providing users with enhanced multitasking capabilities. Battery life improvements are also anticipated, thanks to the efficiency of the M4 chip. The 14-inch M4 MacBook Pro, for instance, supports up to 24 hours of video streaming or 16 hours of web browsing, and the new MacBook Air may see similar enhancements.
Additionally, Apple may upgrade the MacBook Air’s FaceTime camera to a 12-megapixel front-facing lens, similar to the MacBook Pro. If implemented, this will support Center Stage, a feature that keeps users in focus during video calls, as well as Desk View, which provides an overhead perspective of the workspace. Another possible improvement involves connectivity, as the current models feature two Thunderbolt 3 ports, but the upcoming versions might include three Thunderbolt 4 ports, allowing for better speed and external display support.
Pricing, Discontinuation, and Potential Surprise Releases
The pricing structure for the M4 MacBook Air is expected to remain consistent with its predecessor, starting at $1,099. However, Apple’s M2 MacBook Air, currently sold at $999, may be discontinued to make room for the newer models. Alternatively, Apple might choose to retain the M2 version at a lower price to cater to budget-conscious consumers.
Although the M4 MacBook Air is the primary focus of Apple’s announcement, there is speculation that other “Air” products might be introduced. The iPad Air, slated for an update this spring, and a refreshed version of Apple’s AirTags, expected to launch in 2025, could also make an appearance.
Unlike previous years when Apple hosted spring events, the company appears to be favoring press releases and video announcements for its latest product launches. The iPhone 16e was recently introduced through a similar strategy, and it is expected that the MacBook Air will follow suit, with an official release possibly happening as early as tomorrow.
