The next major upgrade cycle for Macs is centred around the M4 chip, and according to various reports, it’s set to begin soon. However, not all M4 Macs will be released at once, and since Apple doesn’t follow a strict schedule like it does with the iPhone or Apple Watch, it might be a bit challenging to determine when each Mac will arrive and what kind of upgrades to expect.
If the rumours are true, every Mac in Apple’s lineup will receive an update within the next 12 months. Here’s a guide on when each model will get the M4 chip and what else can be expected from each upgrade.
M4 MacBook Air
Release Date: The M4 chip upgrade is seen as an opportunity for Apple to establish a set release period for the MacBook Air. The M4 MacBook Air is expected to begin shipping in the spring of 2025, which would be about a year after the release of the M3 MacBook Air.
The M1 Air was released in November 2020; the M2 Air in July 2022; and the 15-inch M2 MacBook Air in June 2023. The release of the M4 Air could provide Apple with the chance to establish a spring cycle for the MacBook Air, which they could turn into a regular event.
Design: Apple is not expected to make any changes to the design of the MacBook Air. The current design was introduced in 2022, and it’s likely to remain unchanged for a few more years.
Chip: The 2025 MacBook Air will feature a base M4 chip, similar to the chip used in the iPad Pro. Benchmark results indicate that the M4 offers a 20% improvement over the M3.
Features: Apple is not expected to upgrade the Liquid Retina display, port configuration (MagSafe 3, two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports, 3.5mm audio jack), camera, or speakers. Wi-Fi 7 support is possible, as the Wi-Fi Alliance formalised this standard earlier in January.
