Apple allegedly preparing early release of MacBook Air with M4
A new MacBook Air with M4 could come onto the market as early as January or February. Apple is reportedly planning an earlier release than last year.
(Image: Apple)
Apple is reportedly planning an early release of the next MacBook Air. The best-selling notebook currently still has the M3 chip and would then be equipped with the new M4, which Apple presented in Macs for the first time in fall 2024. While it took until March last year for Apple to update the MacBook Air, which was equipped with the M3 at the time, a date in January or February is currently being discussed for the M4 variant.
The rumors are mainly fueled by statements from Bloomberg analyst Mark Gurman. He recently stated that the new models with 13 and 15-inch screens will be released earlier than other devices in the spring. These include a new iPhone SE and the iPad 11, while the new Air is already in production.
Unintentional confirmation by Apple
The first concrete indications of the new models were already found in the recently released version 15.2 of macOS Sequoia. Hidden mentions of the not-yet-released devices were discovered in the operating system.
The M4 chip, which is already offered in the MacBook Pro, iMac and Mac mini, has a CPU with up to 10 cores and a 10-core GPU. An important innovation concerns the RAM – but Apple has also subsequently added it to the MacBook Air with M3: Apple has increased the basic configuration of all MacBook Air models from 8 to 16 GB RAM. This step was taken primarily with a view to Apple's own AI, Apple Intelligence.
Improved camera and connections
The new MacBook Air models will be equipped with an improved 12-megapixel camera that supports Center Stage. This function ensures that the user automatically remains in the center of the image during video conferences. In addition, the Desk View function is expected, which can simultaneously show the user and an overview of the desk.
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An upgrade to three Thunderbolt 4 ports is reportedly planned for the connections – The current models have two Thunderbolt 3 ports. The notebooks will also be able to support up to two external screens in the future, even when the display is open.
Design and display options
The external appearance of the MacBook Air series, which last received a major redesign in 2022, is not expected to change significantly. It is still unclear whether Apple will also offer the nanotexture coating available on the MacBook Pro and iMac for the MacBook Air. This special surface treatment reduces display reflections by improving light scattering. There is speculation that Apple may reserve this option for the Pro models to maintain a clear distinction between the products.
As before, the new MacBook Air models will probably be available in different color variants. Prices and exact availability are not yet known.
(mki)
