Apple Introduces New MacBook Air Models with M3 Chip, Available for Pre-Order

Apple has unveiled new MacBook Air models featuring 13-inch and 15-inch screen sizes, equipped with the company's M3 chip. The 13-inch variant starts at $1,099, which is $100 less than the M2 Air model, while the 15-inch model starts at $1,299. Pre-orders for both models are open in the U.S., with general availability scheduled for March 8.

Key features of the new MacBook Air models include a claimed battery life of up to 18 hours, a 1080p webcam, and upgraded Wi-Fi 6E radios. Additionally, they come with two Thunderbolt ports and a 3.5mm headphone jack. While the devices support connection to two external displays, this feature is available only with the lid closed.

The M3 chip, introduced last year, combines an 8-core CPU with up to a 10-core GPU. The MacBook Air models also feature a three-mic array for improved voice clarity during calls.

Greg Joswiak, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Worldwide Marketing, emphasized the popularity of MacBook Air, 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."

Both the 13-inch and 15-inch models are offered in midnight, starlight, silver, and space gray color options. Apple's announcement of the new MacBook Air models coincides with the European Union imposing a €1.84 billion ($2 billion) fine on Apple for violating antitrust rules in the music streaming market.