Apple has announced the launch of its new MacBook Air models, featuring the faster M4 chip and an upgraded videoconferencing camera. The 13-inch MacBook Air now starts at $999, while the 15-inch version begins at $1,099, both reflecting a $100 price cut in the U.S. despite the recent tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump that took effect on Tuesday. Experts had predicted these tariffs might drive up electronics prices, but Apple has not raised its prices yet.

While the design remains the same as last year’s model, the new MacBook Air introduces a fresh sky blue color option and supports up to three external monitors. Apple confirmed the new models will be available for purchase starting March 12.

The MacBook Air plays a crucial role in Apple’s product lineup. In the December quarter, Mac sales rose by 15%, reaching nearly $9 billion. This increase was driven by higher laptop sales, even though overall Mac sales, including desktops, have yet to recover to their fiscal 2022 levels. The surge in 2022 had been fueled by heightened demand for laptops during the pandemic as people adapted to remote work and online schooling.

Alongside the MacBook Air, Apple also introduced a high-end Mac Studio desktop, designed for professionals working in computer graphics, audio, video production, or artificial intelligence. The Mac Studio comes equipped with the M4 Max and M3 Ultra chips, with prices starting at $1,999. More powerful configurations can exceed $14,000.

Apple’s pricing strategy is under close scrutiny as investors and customers watch how the company responds to the Trump administration's tariffs. Most Apple products are manufactured in China, making them subject to two sets of 10% tariffs on Chinese imports. Although some analysts had expected Apple to pass on these additional costs to consumers, the company’s decision to reduce the MacBook Air's price suggests it is absorbing the impact at least for now.

This contrasts with rival PC makers like Acer, which recently announced laptop price increases due to U.S. tariffs. Analysts from Bank of America Securities noted last month that tariffs on imported PCs typically act like a tax that manufacturers often pass on to customers.

Apple CEO Tim Cook recently met with President Trump at the White House. After the meeting, Trump commented that Apple “doesn't want to be in the tariffs.” Meanwhile, Cook has reassured investors that Apple is closely “monitoring the situation.”

In recent years, Apple has diversified its supply chain, moving some Mac assembly to Malaysia and Vietnam regions that would avoid Chinese import duties. However, the company did not specify where the new MacBook Air models are being produced.

PHOTO: APPLE

This article was created with AI assistance.