Apple CEO Tim Cook has ignited anticipation with a recent teaser hinting at an imminent product launch. On Monday, Cook shared a brief video on social media platform X, accompanied by the caption, “This week.” The video features the phrase, “There’s something in the air,” a nod to the original MacBook Air’s 2008 introduction, where co-founder Steve Jobs used the same phrase to unveil the ultra-thin laptop.
Industry experts, including Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, speculate that this teaser precedes the announcement of new MacBook Air models equipped with Apple’s latest M4 chip. Gurman reports that Apple is preparing to release 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air versions featuring the M4 processor, with inventory levels of current models decreasing in anticipation of the new launch.
The anticipated M4 MacBook Air is expected to deliver several notable enhancements:
M4 Chip:
The new laptops are projected to feature the standard M4 chip, boasting a 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine capable of up to 38 trillion operations per second. This advancement should significantly enhance performance and efficiency.
Improved External Display Support:
Unlike previous models limited to a single external display, the M4 MacBook Air is expected to support two external displays simultaneously, even with the laptop’s lid open, offering greater flexibility for users.
Enhanced Battery Life:
Leveraging the power efficiency of the M4 chip, the new MacBook Air is anticipated to offer extended battery life, aligning with improvements seen in other recent Apple devices.
Increased RAM:
The base model is expected to come with 16GB of RAM, double the previous standard, with options to upgrade to 32GB, catering to more demanding computing needs.
Nano-Texture Display Option:
A nano-texture display, previously reserved for higher-end models, may be available as an option, reducing glare and enhancing visual clarity.
Upgraded Camera:
The inclusion of a 12MP Center Stage camera is anticipated, providing improved video conferencing experiences with features that keep users centered in the frame during calls.
While the design is expected to remain consistent with the current MacBook Air aesthetic, these internal upgrades aim to provide a substantial performance boost. Pricing details remain unconfirmed, but the current M3 and M2 MacBook Air models are listed at $1,099 and $999, respectively. The M4 MacBook Pro, announced in October, starts at $1,599.
This forthcoming product launch follows Apple’s February announcement of the iPhone 16e, a more affordable model compatible with Apple Intelligence, signaling the company’s commitment to expanding and enhancing its product lineup.