The new MacBook Pro with Apple M3 chip has just been released, and it appears that more laptops with this new processor will be available in 2024. Nothing is official, but if rumors and reports are accurate, Apple plans to release an M3-powered MacBook Air notebook as early as next spring. Other rumors suggest that the Cupertino-based tech giant may also release a less expensive MacBook that could compete with Chromebooks.

While there have been many reports about Apple's plans to completely revamp its entire iPad lineup in 2024, there is relatively little information about a new MacBook Air laptop. However, given the popularity of the MacBook Air line, we are certain that Apple will release new versions of the existing MacBook Air M2 and MacBook Air 15-inch. It is also unlikely that a new MacBook Pro will appear in 2024, as three new models with the M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max chips have just been announced.

Here is everything we know about the 2024 MacBook.

Apple has not officially announced the MacBook Air M3, but the MacBook Pro and iMac M3 already have the latest chips, so their inclusion in the Air is inevitable; Bloomberg reporter and Apple informant Mark Garman has been working with the lightweight laptop could appear in the spring or summer of 2024.

The MacBook Air M3 will reportedly launch with the macOS update, which will likely be macOS 15. These new MacBook Air laptops will continue to be available in both 13-inch and 15-inch sizes, so there will likely be no new size options.

We have not heard much about the rumored MacBook Air M3 design, but given that the previous model, which was dominated by the M2, had already introduced a new design to the MacBook Air lineup, it is unlikely that Apple will make any major changes to this laptop unlikely.

Like the current 13- and 15-inch MacBook Airs, the M3 Air will feature the flatter, more utilitarian design first seen on the MacBook Pro 14-inch and MacBook Pro 16-inch released in 2021. will probably retain its aesthetic appeal along with MagSafe charging. both M2 MacBook Airs come in four colors, and it is reasonable to assume that the MacBook Air M3 will be the same. However, we are told that the MacBook Air M3 will likely feature the same bright and colorful 13.6" (2,560 x 1,664) Liquid Retina display as the M2 model.

The possibility of a MacBook Air with M3 raises questions about the fate of the MacBook Air M1. Right now, it is the most affordable MacBook at $999 (sometimes cheaper at some retailers). If Apple were to discontinue the M1 Air and the new 13-inch M3 model would cost $1099, the same as the M2, the MacBook Air would effectively be raised $100. Since we have not heard anything about Apple's plans for the MacBook Air M1, it is likely that the M3 MacBook Air, so it is unclear what will happen to this device after the M3 MacBook Air is introduced.

The MacBook is one of the best laptops, but one of the most common complaints is its high price. Even the "cheap" MacBook Air M1 costs $999, unless it is sold at a discount. However, if recent reports are true, Apple plans to release a lower-priced laptop that is more affordable than the entry-level MacBook Air.

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo effectively corroborated a DigiTimes report (via MacRumors) suggesting that the company plans to compete with more affordable laptops, like the best Chromebooks. According to the report, the laptop will have a metal casing but will use "different materials." Its mechanical components would also be less expensive.

Now, how much will this supposedly "cheaper" MacBook laptop cost? The report suggests that Apple wants this laptop to compete with Chromebooks, but it is unlikely that they will offer the device for $130 or $250 like some of the least expensive Chromebooks. Pardon the cynicism, but Apple could charge $899 and still technically offer a less expensive MacBook. Who knows if this MacBook will be a competitor to the Chromebook.

With the new MacBook Pro with M3 chip just announced in October 2023, there is not much information about the 2024 MacBook at this time. However, it seems certain that the new MacBook Air will be released in 2024. These devices are too lucrative for the company to avoid a refresh model - especially now that the M3 chip is present.

I think an M3 MacBook Air is a safe bet, but I am not so sure about the supposed "cheap" MacBook mentioned above. We'll have to wait until next year to see what Apple has in store.