On the evening of March 4th, Apple unexpectedly announced a new MacBook Air series equipped with the M3 chip. The lineup includes two screen sizes: 13 inches and 15 inches. The new laptops will be available for purchase on March 8th, and pre-orders are already open. Unlike previous product launches, Apple did not host a physical event, opting instead to directly showcase the new MacBook Air on its official website. According to leaks, Apple is also set to release new iPad Pro, iPad Air, Apple Pencil, and Magic Keyboard models, which may follow a similar online release strategy. Despite prior expectations of a spring event, Apple seems to be keeping things simple this time around.
The updated MacBook Air has generated significant excitement among Apple fans as it is touted as the most powerful and lightweight laptop ever produced by the company. In comparison to its predecessor, the new MacBook Air boasts four major upgrades:
01 Chip Upgrade
In terms of hardware configuration, the new MacBook Air differentiates itself from the previous generation primarily through the upgraded M3 chip. As Apple's latest self-developed processor, the M3 offers improved CPU and GPU performance compared to the M2. In particular, the upgraded neural network engine enhances the processing capabilities of the new MacBook Air. According to Apple, the new MacBook Air is 60% faster than the M1 version and 13 times faster than the fastest MacBook Air with an Intel processor. This significant performance improvement makes the M3 version the most powerful MacBook Air ever released by Apple.
Moreover, the M3 chip brings about notable gains in battery life. With a maximum battery life of up to 18 hours, users can now enjoy a full day of usage with just a single charge, making it highly efficient and convenient for work or travel. Apple's lightweight laptops continue to outperform their Windows counterparts in terms of battery life, thanks to the company's proprietary processors and optimized macOS system.
02 Wi-Fi 6E
The new M3 MacBook Air supports the latest Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, a step up from the Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 capabilities found in the M2 MacBook Air and the Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 supported by the M1 MacBook Air.
03 Upgraded Microphone
In addition to its impressive performance and battery life, the new MacBook Air also enhances audio and video communication capabilities. The inclusion of "voice isolation" and "wide spectrum" microphone modes allows for clearer and smoother remote meetings and video calls.
04 External two monitors
For the first time, the new MacBook Air supports the connection of two 6K 60Hz external displays or two 5K 60Hz external displays when using the laptop in closed clamshell mode. This significant upgrade greatly enhances the productivity of professional users who require multitasking capabilities, making it easier to navigate through various tasks.
Aside from these upgrades, the new MacBook Air maintains Apple's high-quality design and features. It retains narrow bezels, a Liquid Retina display, MagSafe charging, fanless design, and other configurations to ensure users enjoy a comfortable and convenient user experience. However, it is important to note that while the performance has seen significant improvements, there are minimal changes in other aspects of the device's configuration.
In terms of pricing, the M3 MacBook Air starts at $1099 for the 13-inch model and $1299 for the 15-inch model. Here are the specific price breakdowns:
8-Core CPU/8-Core GPU/8GB Unified Memory/256GB SSD Storage¹ — $1099.00
8-Core CPU/10-Core GPU/8GB Unified Memory/512GB SSD Storage¹ — $1299.00
8-Core CPU/10-Core GPU/16GB Unified Memory/512GB SSD Storage¹ — $1499.00
8-Core CPU/10-Core GPU/8GB Unified Memory/256GB SSD Storage¹ — $1299.00
8-Core CPU/10-Core GPU/8GB Unified Memory/512GB SSD Storage¹ — $1499.00
8-Core CPU/10-Core GPU/16GB Unified Memory/512GB SSD Storage¹ — $1699.00
Individual customers can decide whether to purchase the latest M3 MacBook Air based on their personal preferences and requirements.
In addition, Apple has also introduced four new colors for the iPhone 15 series MagSafe Silicone Cases, including Pink, Light Blue, Sunshine, and Soft Mint, priced at $49.
As for the highly anticipated iPad Air and iPad Pro series, their presence on the official website is expected soon. We will continue to closely monitor Apple's latest developments and provide timely updates to keep everyone informed.