Apple has discontinued production of the 2020 MacBook Air, the first model built around its M1 ARM processor. This shift is noted in reports from MacRumors and reflected in subsequent product introductions. The company then rolled out updated configurations featuring 13- and 15-inch MacBook Air models powered by the newer M3 chip. At the same time, Apple did not release fresh 15-inch variants with the M2 processor. The official product introductions occurred on the evening of March 4, 2024, cementing the new lineup in the company’s portfolio.
As a result, the current MacBook Air family includes a 13-inch model with the M2 chip, a 13-inch model with the M3 chip, both positioned as mainstream portable options, with prices starting at $999 and $1099 respectively. The 15-inch MacBook Air with the M3 chip begins at $1299. These price points translate into roughly comparable figures when viewed through contemporary exchange rates, illustrating Apple’s approach to offering a broader screen-size selection while maintaining a consistent performance trajectory across its light, compact laptops.
Originally introduced on November 10, 2020, the MacBook Air debuted alongside refreshed versions of the Mac mini and the 13-inch MacBook Pro. These introductions marked Apple’s first wave of products featuring its own ARM-based processors, signaling a significant shift away from traditional Intel architectures. The reception to the M1-equipped MacBook Air highlighted notable gains in performance and energy efficiency, with reviewers repeatedly praising the chip’s ability to handle everyday tasks with ease and deliver long battery life. The enthusiasm extended beyond benchmark scores, as real-world use demonstrated smoother multitasking, swift app launches, and improved thermal behavior in a chassis designed for portability and all-day use.
In the years since, Apple has continued to evolve the MacBook line, balancing power and efficiency with a design that appeals to students, professionals, and creators alike. The introduction of the M3-based Air models represents a further step in refining the balance between performance, battery life, and price. Users in Canada, the United States, and other markets can expect the same emphasis on seamless integration with macOS, strong reliability, and a growing ecosystem of software optimized for Apple silicon. The ongoing transition also highlights the broader industry shift toward ARM-based laptops, with developers increasingly adapting apps to take full advantage of Apple’s architecture and the associated accelerators for machine learning and media processing. In this context, the MacBook Air remains a flagship option for those seeking a compact, capable machine that blends mobility with real-world productivity, whether for school, work, or personal projects. The overall reception to the M3-series Air underscores Apple’s strategy to offer multiple size options while pushing forward in performance and efficiency, helping users choose a model that best fits their needs and budget.