Apple launched the M3 MacBook Air a few weeks ago with a handful of nifty upgrades that enhanced the performance of the machine compared to its predecessor. The highlight of the upgrade is the new M3 chip, which is significantly faster than the M2 chip on last year’s models. This is because the M3 chip is fabricated on TSMC’s 3nm architecture and delivers improved performance while consuming less power. Externally, the design of the M3 MacBook Air is identical to the M2 version, and an Apple executive has discussed the benefits of the form factor and durability in a new interview.
Apple’s senior product manager discusses the durability and performance of the new M3 MacBook Air
In a new interview with The Points Guy, Apple’s senior product manager Evan Buzye discussed the recently announced M3 MacBook Air in terms of portability and durability. As mentioned, the M3 MacBook Air features the same design as its predecessor, and it is not a negative aspect of the device at all, as the machine still looks quite modern with all the bells and whistles of a premium product.
Buzye states that Apple upgraded the internals of the device but did not compromise on the durability of the machine in any way. Additionally, he stated that the M3 MacBook Air still features a lightweight design that is best for people who love to travel.
Buzye said Apple worked hard so that the width didn’t come at the expense of durability. The new MacBook Air is built with an all-aluminum unibody enclosure that’s “designed to be super durable.”
“[In the lab,] they do a lot of different things to be able to make sure that whatever situation you are in, whether it’s in your backpack or you’re carrying it, it meets our standards for reliability.”
Buzye coined that the thinner profile of the M3 MacBook Air and enhanced efficiency are all thanks to the new M series of chips. The thinner profile is specifically designed for travelers, and the two sizes of the machine cater to different audiences.
One particular aspect of the new processor that might appeal to travelers is the introduction of more efficient video streaming for services like Netflix. This will allow you to stream for longer, according to Buyze. While the new chips might pack a mighty punch, they also were the “secret sauce” to making the computer so portable. “How do we get that thin-and-light design that fits on the tray table?” Buzye asked. He answered by explaining that the “transition to Apple silicon [processor chips] … was really the game changer where we could actually make these new designs that we had only imagined making before.”
Other than the new chip and the same design, the M3 MacBook Air features upgraded WiFi 6E, which delivers faster download and upload speeds through compatible routers. However, Buzye also compared the new model with its predecessor, suggesting that you will notice minimal gain in performance when jumping from the M2 MacBook Air to the M3 MacBook Air. However, if you upgrade from an M1 or Intel-based MacBook Air to an M3 MacBook Air, you will notice a gigantic difference in terms of performance.
The new 13-inch M3 MacBook is available starting from $1,099 for the base model and $999 for the 13-inch M2 MacBook Air with base storage capacity. The 15-inch M3 MacBook Air starts at $1,299 for the base model, but the company has discontinued the M2 version of the 15-inch MacBook Air.
