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Apple gives M2 and M3-powered MacBook Air models a much-needed RAM upgrade

The MacBook Air now comes with at least 16 GB of memory (image source: Notebookcheck)
The MacBook Air now comes with at least 16 GB of memory (image source: Notebookcheck)
New MacBook Air models (M2 and M3) will now come with 16 GB of RAM out of the box without a corresponding price hike. For now, this change only applies to MacBook Air models bought directly from Apple, but third-party retailers should follow suit soon.

Alongside the new M4 Pro, M4 Max and new MacBook Pros, Apple has given a much-needed upgrade to the MacBook Air lineup. No, it isn't a shiny new M4 chip; that isn't scheduled to happen until early next year. Instead, you get a free memory upgrade on all M2 and M3-powered MacBook Air models.

The entire MacBook Air lineup (except the M1) will now come with 16 GB of RAM without a corresponding price increase, meaning you can snag a 13-inch Apple M2 MacBook Air for $999. The maximum amount of allowed RAM has been increased from 16 GB to  24 GB. The latter likely uses the new 3 GB modules found on the new M4 Pro and M4 Max.

Apple has been handing out RAM upgrades like candy this generation, with the iPhone 16 series, iPad Pro, MacBook Pro and even iPad Mini receiving one. It is painfully obvious Apple's strategy of cheaping out on memory backfired on it with the widespread availability of Apple Intelligence.

Nevertheless, it is a win for end users. Those who are okay with just 8 GB of RAM can expect hefty discounts from third-party retailers looking to get rid of their old MacBook Air stock.

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2024 10 > Apple gives M2 and M3-powered MacBook Air models a much-needed RAM upgrade
Anil Ganti, 2024-10-30 (Update: 2024-10-30)