# Apple Launches M4 MacBook Air: Enhanced Performance, Lower Cost, and a Fresh Color Choice
Apple has officially updated its MacBook Air series, unveiling the **M4 MacBook Air** which features boosted performance, a new lower entry price, and a vibrant **Sky Blue** color option. This update aligns with Apple’s pattern of incremental enhancements, retaining the slim design while upgrading internal components.
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## **Key Features of the M4 MacBook Air**
### **1. Price Drop: More Budget-Friendly Than Before**
One of the most notable aspects of this update is the **decrease in price**. The **13-inch M4 MacBook Air** is now priced starting at **$999**, which is **$100 less** than the earlier M3 model. Likewise, the **15-inch variant** has also seen a **$100 reduction**, with a starting cost of **$1,199**.
Even at the reduced price, the entry configurations maintain **16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage**, making them a strong choice for students, professionals, and casual users.
### **2. Performance Enhancement with the M4 Chip**
The **M4 chip** offers considerable performance enhancements compared to the prior version. Key specs include:
– **10-core CPU** (4 performance cores, 6 efficiency cores)
– **Up to 10-core GPU**
– **16-core Neural Engine** dedicated to AI and machine learning functions
– **Fanless construction** for quiet operation
While the MacBook Air remains fanless, meaning it might not sustain peak performance for as long as the **MacBook Pro**, it still delivers notable speed suitable for everyday tasks, creative projects, and even light gaming.
### **3. Increased RAM Capacity: Up to 32GB**
For the first time, the MacBook Air has the capability to support up to **32GB of RAM**. Previously, the Air was restricted to **16GB (M1 generation) and 24GB (M2/M3 models)**. This enhancement makes the M4 MacBook Air a more attractive option for power users requiring additional memory for multitasking and resource-intensive applications.
### **4. Upgraded Webcam with Center Stage**
Apple has enhanced the **FaceTime HD camera** to feature a **12-megapixel sensor** equipped with **Center Stage** technology. This feature, initially launched with the iPad and subsequently integrated into the iMac and MacBook Pro, automatically adjusts the framing to keep users centered during video calls. It additionally supports background effects, enriching the overall video conferencing experience.
### **5. Enhanced External Display Compatibility**
A significant limitation of prior MacBook Air models was their capacity for external displays. The **M4 MacBook Air** can now support **up to three displays simultaneously**:
– **Two external 6K displays**
– **The integrated laptop screen**
This marks a major advancement over the **M3 MacBook Air**, which was restricted to **two external displays only when the internal screen was turned off**.
### **6. New Sky Blue Finish and Design Consistency**
While the **M4 MacBook Air** retains its signature **thin and lightweight design**, Apple has introduced a **new Sky Blue finish**. This color is reminiscent of **Microsoft’s Sapphire Blue Surface laptops** but is slightly less vivid.
The available color choices now include:
✅ **Sky Blue (New!)**
✅ **Silver**
✅ **Starlight (Gold-tinged)**
✅ **Midnight (Dark Blue-Black)**
However, **Space Gray has been retired**.
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## **What Will Happen to the M2 and M3 MacBook Air?**
Apple is **retiring the M2 and M3 MacBook Air models**, but the **M2 variant will still be offered in select regions** as an economical alternative. Additionally, Apple continues to sell the **M1 MacBook Air through Walmart** as a basic-level option.
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## **Availability and Release Timeline**
The **M4 MacBook Air** is available for **preorder today** and will officially be released on **March 12, 2025**.
Apple will also unveil **updated Mac Studio models** on the same date, featuring **M4 Max and M3 Ultra chips**.
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## **Final Thoughts: Is the M4 MacBook Air a Good Choice?**
With its **reduced price, upgraded performance, improved webcam, and increased RAM capacity**, the **M4 MacBook Air** presents a compelling upgrade. The **new Sky Blue finish** adds a refreshing look, and the **enhanced external display capability** makes it more adaptable for professionals.
If you’re currently using an **M1 or Intel-based MacBook Air**, this is an **excellent time to upgrade**. However, for those who already possess an **M3 MacBook Air**,
