Is Apple Trying to Kill The MacBook Pro?

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the recent release of the M3 MacBook Air, including its new features and how it compares to the MacBook Pro line. It also analyzes Apple's strategy in positioning the MacBook Air and Pro models.

🙋 Q&A

[01] The M3 MacBook Air and its features

1. What are the key features of the new M3 MacBook Air?

• The M3 MacBook Air is available in a space black color option, previously only available on the more expensive MacBook Pro models.
• The space black color option is only available on the M3 Pro or M3 Max chip versions, not the base M3 chip.
• The M3 MacBook Air now has the ability to support two external displays, a feature previously limited to the MacBook Pro line.
• The M3 MacBook Air also has an improved display and anodization process similar to the MacBook Pro.

2. How does the M3 MacBook Air compare to the MacBook Pro in terms of performance and capabilities?

• The author argues that for most users, the performance difference between the MacBook Air and Pro is not significant enough to justify the higher cost of the Pro.
• The MacBook Pro still has some advantages, such as more RAM options and better GPU performance for tasks like running local AI models. But the author questions how many users actually need those specialized capabilities.

[02] Apple's positioning of the MacBook Air and Pro

1. What is the author's perspective on Apple's strategy with the MacBook Air and Pro lines?

• The author believes Apple is trying to "kill off" the MacBook Pro by giving the MacBook Air more of the Pro's features and capabilities.
• The author notes that the price difference between a similarly configured MacBook Air and Pro is significant, making the Air a "phenomenal value" for most users.
• The author finds it "a little weird" that Apple is not doing more to incentivize people to buy the more expensive Pro models.

2. How has the positioning of the MacBook Air and Pro evolved over time?

• The author recalls a time when the MacBook Air had a poor display, leading the author to prefer the Pro. Now the tables have turned, with the Pro having display issues like ghosting.
• The author notes that Apple had previously considered killing off the Air line and just selling the Pro, but the situation has now reversed with the Air gaining many Pro-level features.