M3 MacBook Air: A Deeper Look into the New Features

Exploring the Three Major Upgrades of the M3 MacBook Air

New features exclusive to the M3 MacBook Air, not available on the M2 MacBook Air.

13-inch M3 MacBook Air on a table Credit: Kimberly Gedeon / ENBLE

The new M3 MacBook Air is about to hit the market, and it’s coming in two flavors: a 13-inch model and a 15-inch model. But what sets this new MacBook Air apart from its predecessor? In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the new features that make the M3 MacBook Air stand out against the M2 MacBook Air.

1. More Power, Faster Performance 💪🚀

At first glance, it might seem like there are no major upgrades with the new MacBook Air. However, the M3 chip alone brings a significant performance boost. Apple claims that the MacBook Air with the M3 chip is up to 60% faster than the previous M1 chip models launched in 2020. This means that programs will launch faster, and tasks like rendering photos and videos on creator-focused apps will be much smoother and quicker.

2. WiFi 6E: Lightning-Fast Wireless Connection 📶⚡

The new M3 MacBook Air now supports WiFi 6E, an upgrade from the previous generation’s WiFi 6. But what’s the difference? Well, WiFi 6E is designed to reduce latency and deliver faster wireless speeds. Apple claims that data transmission with WiFi 6E should be twice as fast as the previous generation. So, if you rely on a speedy and reliable internet connection, the M3 MacBook Air has got you covered.

3. Dual-Display Support: Expand Your Workspace 🖥️🖥️

The M3 MacBook Air now supports up to two 5K, 60Hz external displays, but there’s a catch: the laptop lid must be closed. In comparison, the M2 MacBook Air only supported a single external display. Additionally, the M3 MacBook Air can handle one external display with up to 6K resolution at a 60Hz refresh rate. An intriguing aspect to note is whether this new feature was made possible through a software update or hardware-based change.

4. Midnight Black: Sleek and Smudge-Resistant 💼🖤

When Apple introduced the Midnight Black color with the M3-based MacBook Pro models last year, it caught everyone’s attention. The Midnight Black option comes with an anodization seal that reduces fingerprints and smudges. If you were tired of constantly wiping off smears on your previous MacBook Air, the Midnight Black M3 MacBook Air is the answer. Additionally, the M3 MacBook Air also comes in Starlight, Silver, and Space Gray.

Is the M3 MacBook Air Worth It?

As someone who currently owns an M2 MacBook Air (yes, I’m writing this article on it), I can confidently recommend upgrading to the M3 MacBook Air. As apps and programs become more resource-intensive, the M3 chip comes to the rescue with its extra power to handle AI tasks and creator-focused apps more efficiently. So if you desire a faster, zippier, and more seamless experience without fully splurging on a Pro-level MacBook, the M3 MacBook Air should be your top choice.

The 13-inch model starts at $1,099, while the 15-inch variant has a starting price of $1,299. Both models will be available on March 8.

Frequently Asked Questions 🙋‍♀️🙋‍♂️

Q: Can I upgrade my existing MacBook Air to an M3 chip? Currently, Apple does not offer an upgrade program to replace the internal chip of your MacBook Air. You would need to purchase a new M3 MacBook Air to enjoy the benefits of the M3 chip.

Q: Does the M3 MacBook Air support the latest macOS version? Yes, the M3 MacBook Air is fully compatible with the latest macOS version. You can enjoy all the new features and improvements that the operating system provides.

Q: Are there any trade-in options available for my old MacBook Air? Apple often offers trade-in programs that allow you to exchange your old devices for credit towards a new purchase. You can check Apple’s website or visit an Apple Store to find out the trade-in value of your MacBook Air and explore available options.

Future Developments and Impact 🚀🔮

The introduction of the M3 MacBook Air signals Apple’s commitment to providing faster and more capable devices for everyday users. With the M3 chip’s enhanced performance, the MacBook Air is bridging the gap between a consumer-grade laptop and a professional-level MacBook Pro.

This shift opens up new possibilities for individuals who need a powerful machine for creative tasks, such as editing videos and photos or running resource-intensive applications. The M3 MacBook Air’s improved capabilities make it a viable option for a broader range of users, including content creators, students, and professionals on the go.

Looking forward, we can anticipate further advancements in Apple’s M-series chip lineup, with even more power and features packed into future MacBook Air models. As technology continues to evolve, we’re excited to see how Apple will push the boundaries and enhance the computing experience for its users.

References

  1. ENBLE: M3 MacBook Air vs. M2 MacBook Air: What’s the difference?
  2. Digital Trends: Best Refurbished MacBook Deals: Get a MacBook Air for $165
  3. MacRumors: Giveaway: Win a 13-inch M2 MacBook Air from GRID Studio
  4. TechCrunch: Farcaster hype grows as Bluesky opens to the public and SEC’s Hester Peirce open to new token proposals
  5. ENBLE: 13-inch M2 MacBook Air Starts at $999, 15-inch M2 Model Discontinued

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