Apple’s fall 2024 Mac announcements introduced new iMac, Mac mini, and MacBook Pro models, all powered by different variants of the M4 chip. Over the next 12 months, Apple plans to update its entire Mac lineup with M4 series processors, marking the first time the company will use the same chip generation across all its Mac products.
The MacBook Air is set to join the M4 chip lineup in early 2025, alongside updates to the Mac Studio and Mac Pro. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is preparing to begin production on new MacBook Air models featuring the M4 chip, available in both 13-inch and 15-inch variants. These models are expected to be released between January and March 2025. While the design will largely remain the same, the focus will be on internal upgrades for improved performance.
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One of the key enhancements is an increase in base RAM, continuing the trend started with the M3 MacBook Air, which upgraded the base RAM from 8GB to 16GB. The M4 MacBook Air is also expected to feature a new 12MP Center Stage camera with Desk View support, replacing the current 1080p FaceTime HD camera.
Following the release of the M4 MacBook Air, Apple is expected to turn its attention to updating the Mac Studio. While earlier reports suggested a 2025 debut, new information indicates the launch is now planned for between March and June 2025. The next-generation Mac Studio will likely feature M4 Ultra or M4 Max processors and could include Thunderbolt 5 ports for faster data transfer and improved connectivity.
Alongside the Mac Studio, the Mac Pro is also set for an update, with the next refresh expected in summer 2025. The Mac Pro will skip the M3 generation, jumping straight to the M4 Ultra chip, codenamed “Hydra.” This chip is expected to offer up to a 32-core CPU and an 80-core GPU, delivering a significant performance boost over the current M4 Max. The new Mac Pro could also support up to 512GB of unified memory, doubling the current 192GB limit, and will likely include Thunderbolt 5 ports for enhanced professional connectivity.
