In an exciting development, Apple has introduced new MacBook Air models featuring screen sizes of 13 inches and 15 inches, powered by the company’s own M3 chip. The 13-inch variant kicks off at $1,099, marking a $100 reduction compared to its M2 predecessor, while the 15-inch model starts at $1,299. Pre-orders for both models are now open in the U.S., with the official release scheduled for March 8.
Building on the success of the M2 MacBook Air launched in 2022, Apple expanded its portfolio last year by introducing the 15-inch variant. Now, the M3 chip takes the MacBook Air to new heights with enhanced performance and capabilities.
Key features of the new MacBook Air models include a claimed battery life of up to 18 hours, a high-quality 1080p webcam, and upgraded Wi-Fi 6E radios for improved connectivity. The devices are equipped with two Thunderbolt ports and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Notably, users can connect two external displays, but this functionality is limited to instances where the laptop lid is closed.
The M3 chip, introduced last year, boasts an 8-core CPU paired with an impressive up to 10-core GPU, ensuring a seamless and powerful user experience. Additionally, both models incorporate a three-microphone array to enhance voice clarity during calls.
Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing, expressed enthusiasm about the latest additions to the MacBook Air lineup, stating, “MacBook Air is our most popular and loved Mac, with more customers choosing it over any other laptop. And today it gets even better with the M3 chip and new capabilities.”
The new MacBook Air models are available in a range of stylish color options, including midnight, starlight, silver, and space gray. As Apple introduces these cutting-edge devices, it coincides with the European Union imposing a hefty fine of €1.84 billion (approximately $2 billion) on the tech giant for antitrust violations in the music streaming market.