Although the MacBook Pro showcases cutting-edge technology, my preference leans towards the MacBook Air due to its exceptional portability. The sleek design and lightweight build of the MacBook Air make it an enticing option, prompting me to overlook features like miniLED, ProMotion, and extra ports.
While not without its flaws, the MacBook Air could benefit from several straightforward enhancements in the upcoming M4 model set to release next year. Any of these adjustments would significantly improve its overall appeal.
600 nit Display
Recently, Apple has been elevating the standard brightness of many of their newer displays. The M4 MacBook Pros saw a rise to 1000 nits of brightness (compared to 600 nits on the M3 and 500 nits on the M2), and the M2 iPad Air also increased from 500 to 600 nits on its 13-inch model.
Therefore, it’s reasonable to expect that Apple could raise the brightness of the next MacBook Air from 500 nits to 600 nits if they chose to do so. This enhancement would align with upgrades seen in other devices and offer a notable usability improvement for MacBook Air users. It would certainly be an attractive upgrade for many consumers, particularly since the M4 model is anticipated to feature primarily modest specification enhancements.
Enhanced Thermals
Apple has been making strides in improving thermal efficiency across devices that utilize passive cooling, especially with the iPhone 16 Pro and M4 iPad Pro. Both devices showcased superior thermal management through methods such as graphite sheets, copper heatsinks, and refined internal designs.
Users have voiced concerns regarding the thermal performance of the MacBook Air, which has maintained passive cooling since Apple shifted to its own silicon. While I won’t assert whether the MacBook Air’s thermal management is sufficient, I do observe that my machine tends to get rather warm during moderate tasks. Enhancing the thermal system in the next MacBook Air would likely be welcomed by many.
Some users have even taken to modifying their MacBook Airs to maximize performance before thermal throttling kicks in. While such modifications are generally safe and reversible, they undeniably void any existing warranty, should the device require repair.
Center Stage Camera
This particular upgrade is pretty much expected, considering that both the M4 iMac and M4 MacBook Pro feature it. I would love to see the Center Stage functionality on the next MacBook Air, as it introduces exciting capabilities, and enhanced webcams are universally appealing. Center Stage enhances FaceTime interactions and features like Desk View are quite handy.
Conclusion
Implementing these three enhancements would undoubtedly make the MacBook Air a significantly more attractive offering, at least from my perspective. The MacBook Pro, particularly the 16” model, is notably heavier and bulkier, whereas I truly appreciate having a lightweight laptop that I can effortlessly toss into my bag without a second thought. This preference was ultimately what led me to move away from using a MacBook Pro.
Even if Apple were to make none of these changes, my preference will still firmly lie with the MacBook Air – but this represents my personal wishlist. Currently, I am using a 13-inch M2 MacBook Air and I’m interested in transitioning to a 15-inch model. However, Apple needs to offer more than just a chip upgrade to persuade me.
While one could easily wish for features such as a 120Hz display or even an OLED like the latest iPad Pro, this is also Apple’s most affordable laptop, so I’m opting for more reasonable suggestions.
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