Apple has unveiled the new MacBook Air with the powerful M4 chip, which not only offers significantly improved performance, but also scores points with new features and an optimized camera. Thanks to the improved energy efficiency, the battery lasts up to 18 hours. The MacBook Air also enables the connection of two external displays for the first time, which expands the multitasking options. In addition to the familiar color variants, the model is now also available in sky blue – a stylish, metallic light blue.
- M4 chip with up to 10 cores for CPU and GPU
- New camera upgrade with 12MP and center stage function
- Support for two external displays in addition to the internal screen
- Longer battery life of up to 18 hours
- New entry-level price from 1,199 euros
M4 chip: More power for demanding tasks
At the heart of the new MacBook Air is the M4 chip, which offers an impressive increase in performance compared to previous generations. With up to 10 CPU cores and a 10-core GPU, it ensures that even demanding applications run smoothly. This is particularly noticeable when editing photos and videos:
- Spreadsheets in Excel are processed up to 4.7 times faster than with an Intel MacBook Air.
- Video editing in iMovie is twice as fast as on the MacBook Air with M1.
- Photoshop work is up to 3.6 times faster than with Intel predecessors.
- Surfing the Internet is 60% faster than on comparable Intel PCs.
The MacBook Air with M4 also offers significantly improved performance for gamers. Titles such as Civilization VII run more smoothly and benefit from the improved GPU performance.
Apple Intelligence: AI-supported features
With the latest macOS version Sequoia, Apple is bringing Apple Intelligence to the MacBook Air for the first time. These AI-based functions help users to work more creatively and efficiently:
- Image Playground: quickly generate and customize images.
- Genmoji: Create your own emojis with AI support.
- Writing tools: Automatically rephrase or summarize texts.
- Improved Siri function: Intelligent answers to questions about Mac use.
- ChatGPT integration: Can optionally be used directly in macOS without the need for an account.
Thanks to the powerful Neural Engine of the M4 chip, AI-supported processes are up to three times faster than with the M1 chip. Most calculations are performed locally on the device, while Private Cloud Compute is used for more complex queries.
New 12MP camera with center stage
Apple is also improving the camera with the new MacBook Air. The 12MP center-stage camera ensures better image quality and automatically adjusts the image section so that users are always in focus during video calls.
- Automatic adjustment of the image section for more flexibility during video calls
- Desk view: show the face and the workstation at the same time
- Better low-light performance for clearer recordings
This camera upgrade is a welcome improvement, especially for students, remote workers and creative professionals.
Improved connectivity and extended display support
For the first time, MacBook Air with M4 can support up to two external 6K displays. This makes it particularly attractive for users who work with multiple displays.
Further highlights of the hardware equipment:
- MagSafe charging port for easy and safe charging
- Two Thunderbolt ports for fast data transfer and accessories
- 3.5 mm headphone connection with high impedance support
- WLAN 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for fast and stable connections
Sustainability and environmental friendliness
Apple is increasingly focusing on sustainable materials and has made the MacBook Air more environmentally friendly:
- 100% recycled aluminum in the chassis
- 100% recycled rare earth elements in the magnets
- 95% recycled lithium in the battery
- Fiber-based packaging to reduce plastic
With these measures, Apple is pursuing the goal of being climate-neutral by 2030.
Availability and price
The new MacBook Air is now available for pre-order and will begin shipping on March 12. Prices start at €1,199 for the 13-inch model and €1,499 for the 15-inch version. Discounted prices are available for students and educational institutions from 1,069 euros and 1,369 euros respectively.
Conclusion
The MacBook Air with M4 is a solid upgrade with a significant increase in performance, improved camera and new AI functions. The extended display support and lower entry-level price make it even more attractive for many users. If you’re looking for a powerful, durable and versatile laptop, the new MacBook Air is a strong overall package.
