Apple likely to launch MacBook Air, iPad Air into first half of 2025

Apple is reportedly planning to delay the release of its next-generation MacBook Air and iPad Air models until the first half of 2025. The Cupertino giant is currently preparing for a highly anticipated October 2024 event to introduce other products, including a refreshed MacBook Pro lineup, Mac mini, and iPad mini. However, according to Bloomberg, this event will not include the affordable Air models.
The decision to space out the launch of the new MacBook and iPad Air models is reportedly part of Apple’s broader strategy to balance device releases across its product range, following the launch of the iPhone 16 series. These releases are likely to coincide with the rumoured iPhone SE 4, which is also expected to arrive in early 2025.
Bloomberg’s report suggests that Apple will likely launch updated 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air models in the first half of 2025. Both models are expected to be powered by Apple’s latest and most powerful M4 chip. With the M4 chip, the new Air lineup is anticipated to deliver significant performance improvements and possibly new design elements. However, specific rumours regarding the design or battery life of the MacBook Air remain scarce.
Meanwhile, Apple is also expected to launch the new generation of iPad Air models in early 2025, with notable updates. According to rumours, Apple is working on 11-inch and 13-inch variants of the iPad Air, positioning them as powerful yet affordable alternatives to the iPad Pro line. These updated iPad Air models are expected to be powered by the same M4 chip, ensuring smooth handling of intensive apps, multitasking, and new Apple Intelligence features.
Along with the new models, Apple is also expected to launch an updated Magic Keyboard designed for the iPad Air and a new version of the AirTag tracker. However, while no specific details about these accessories have been revealed yet, they may be introduced during Apple’s WWDC conference in mid-2025.
Before the launch of its 2025 devices, Apple is preparing for a hardware event in late October 2024. This event is expected to introduce updated versions of the MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and iPad mini, with the devices likely to start shipping by November 1, 2024.
Apple is rumoured to introduce a low-end 14-inch model powered by the M4 processor and higher-end 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros with the more powerful M4 Pro or M4 Max chips.
Apple is also expected to introduce new upgrades to the Mac mini. Rumours suggest that this year, Apple might reveal a sleeker design for its entry-level desktop, marking a departure from the long-standing form factor. The new Mac mini could feature five USB-C ports, moving away from the traditional USB-A ports that have been a staple for years.