Though the MacBook Pro showcases cutting-edge technology, my preference leans towards the MacBook Air primarily for its portability. There’s something truly appealing about its sleek and lightweight design that makes me willing to forgo features like miniLED, ProMotion, and extra ports.
The MacBook Air may not be flawless, yet there are several straightforward enhancements I hope Apple considers for the M4 MacBook Air next year. Implementing any of these improvements would significantly enhance its overall appeal for me.
600 nit display
Apple has recently increased the standard brightness across several of their newer screens. The M4 MacBook Pros now feature a standard brightness of 1000 nits (an upgrade from 600 nits on the M3 and 500 nits on the M2), and the new M2 iPad Air has seen its brightness raised from 500 nits to 600 nits, at least for the 13-inch model.
Logically, Apple could elevate the brightness of the next-generation MacBook Air from 500 nits to 600 nits if they chose to do so. This would align with upgrades seen in their other devices and notably enhance usability for MacBook Air customers. Additionally, it would serve as an enticing improvement for a variety of users since the M4 model is expected to focus primarily on internal enhancements.
Enhanced thermals
Apple has also been making strides in thermal management for devices that utilize passive cooling, most prominently in the iPhone 16 Pro and M4 iPad Pro. Both models feature improved thermal handling, whether through graphite sheets, copper heatsinks, or optimized internal architecture.
Many users have raised concerns about the thermal performance of the MacBook Air, which has utilized passive cooling since the switch to Apple Silicon. While I’m not here to debate the adequacy of the MacBook Air’s thermal management, I do notice my device getting somewhat warm during moderate tasks. Enhancing the thermal performance in the next MacBook Air would undoubtedly please many users.
Some individuals have even modified their MacBook Airs to prolong peak performance before experiencing thermal throttling. Although this mod is reversible and generally safe, it does void your warranty if you need to have your MacBook serviced.
Center Stage camera
This upgrade seems almost certain, given that the M4 iMac and M4 MacBook Pro already feature it. I would love to see Center Stage technology added to the upcoming MacBook Air. It can deliver some fantastic functionalities, and upgraded webcams are universally appreciated. Center Stage enhances the FaceTime experience, while features like Desk View offer added utility.
Conclusion
In my view, these three enhancements would significantly improve the MacBook Air’s attractiveness. While the MacBook Pro (particularly the 16-inch variant) is robust and heavy, I greatly cherish having a sleek and lightweight laptop that I can effortlessly toss in my bag without concern. This is ultimately the reason I transitioned away from the MacBook Pro.
Even if none of these improvements materialize, my preference would likely remain with the MacBook Air – but this is simply my wish list. Currently, I utilize an M2 13-inch MacBook Air and would love to upgrade to a 15-inch version. However, Apple must introduce more than just a chip upgrade to entice me.
While it would be easy to request features such as a 120Hz display or OLED technology similar to the new iPad Pro, I recognize that this is Apple’s entry-level laptop, so I prefer to keep my suggestions reasonable.
Follow Michael: X/Twitter, Bluesky, Instagram
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
