Apple has released its new MacBook Air models with the M3 chip in New Zealand and Australia. Customers who pre-ordered the machines are now receiving their laptops. The updated MacBook Air models come in 13.6-inch and 15.3-inch sizes and feature the same M3 chip that was introduced in the MacBook Pro last year.
While there are no external changes to the MacBook Air, Apple has focused on internal updates. The M3 chip offers up to 30 percent faster CPU performance compared to the previous M2 chip. Additionally, there are notable GPU improvements, including support for Dynamic Caching, hardware-accelerated ray tracing, hardware-accelerated mesh shading, and AV1 decode.
The new MacBook Air models also come with several other enhancements. Users can now connect two external displays when the laptop is in clamshell mode, and the machines support Wi-Fi 6E for faster wireless connectivity. Apple has also improved voice clarity for audio and video calls, and the Midnight finish now features a new anodization seal to reduce fingerprints.
In Australia, customers can purchase the new MacBook Air models directly from Apple retail stores, with ample stock available for walk-in customers. However, in New Zealand, customers must order online as Apple does not have physical stores in the country.
After the release in New Zealand and Australia, the new MacBook Air models will be available for sales and deliveries in Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and finally, North America.
For those interested in a hands-on review of the new M3 MacBook Air, one will be available in the morning after the device is picked up.
In other news, Apple is planning to announce new products this week through press releases on its website. While the specific products have not been disclosed, rumors suggest that new iPads, Macs, and accessories may be unveiled.
Apple has also made adjustments to its estimated trade-in values for select iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch models in the U.S. The company has slightly increased trade-in values for the iPhone 14 Pro Max, second-generation iPhone SE, Apple Watch Series 4, and first-generation Apple Watch SE. However, trade-in values have slightly decreased for the entry-level iPad and Apple Watch.
Furthermore, Apple has released iOS 17.4, its biggest iPhone software update of the year so far. The update brings several new features and changes that users have been anticipating.
Lastly, Apple has announced new MacBook Air models with the M3 chip. The company claims that the new laptops are up to 60% faster than the previous M1 model and up to 13 times faster than the fastest Intel-based MacBook Air. With a faster and more efficient Neural Engine, Apple asserts that the MacBook Air remains the best consumer laptop option.
Overall, Apple’s release of the new MacBook Air models with the M3 chip brings improved performance and enhanced features to customers in New Zealand and Australia. With internal updates and various improvements, these laptops offer a compelling option for those in need of a powerful and efficient device.