If you’re looking to kick off the new year with a new MacBook, now’s a fantastic time to buy. In recent years, Macs have become more and more affordable – largely in part because of Apple’s transition to Apple Silicon. These MacBooks are also more capable than ever.
Apple’s latest macOS Tahoe update also dropped support for practically all Intel Macs (with some small exceptions). If you’d like to stay on the latest and greatest Apple software, nows a fitting time to upgrade.
Keep up with all of the latest MacBook deals on 9to5Toys.
M3 MacBook Air
In 2022, Apple introduced the redesigned MacBook Air with a thinner design, a bigger display with slimmer bezels, and reintroduced MagSafe. It also came in new Starlight and Midnight colors in addition to Silver and space Gray,although Gold was no longer. This fresh new design was introduced with the M2 chip, and it’s lived on since.
Apple’s M4 MacBook Air and Pro are on Sale at Amazon Right Now
Currently, you can save $200 across the board on the latest MacBook air models. Apple is reportedly working on a new entry-level macbook with an A18 Pro chip within the next year or so – but at these prices, I’d honestly just get the MacBook Air and not have to deal with any compromises.
13-inch models with M4 chip:
* 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $799 at Amazon
* 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at Amazon
* 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon
15-inch models with M4 chip:
* 15-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $999 at amazon
* 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 16GB of memory: $1199 at Amazon
* 15-inch MacBook Air with 512GB of storage, 24GB of memory: $1399 at amazon
M4 MacBook Pro
Apple redesigned the MacBook Pro in 2021 with a brand new miniLED display with ProMotion, more ports (most notably an HDMI port and SD card reader), as well as bigger batteries and better thermals. It also gained a 1080p webcam for the first time.
No, the EU Didn’t Ban Apple from Including a Charger with the M5 MacBook Pro
Recent reports circulating online claim the European Union has banned Apple from including a charger with the M5 MacBook Pro.This is inaccurate. The EU isn’t banning Apple from *including* a charger; it’s mandating a common charging standard – USB-C – for a wider range of devices, and Apple is already complying with this rule for MacBooks.
Understanding the EU’s Charging Regulation
In late 2022, the EU approved a law requiring most electronic devices sold within the EU to use USB-C for charging by the end of 2024. The goal isn’t to eliminate chargers entirely, but to reduce electronic waste (e-waste) and simplify charging for consumers. Think about it: before this, you likely had a drawer full of different chargers for yoru phone, tablet, headphones, and other gadgets. This regulation aims to change that.
Why USB-C?
USB-C was chosen as the standard because it’s versatile, faster, and becoming increasingly prevalent. It can handle both data transfer and power delivery, and it’s physically reversible, meaning you don’t have to fumble to plug it in correctly. The EU recognized that forcing a single standard would benefit consumers by reducing clutter and the need to constantly purchase new chargers.
What the Regulation Actually Says
The directive applies to a broad range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, e-readers, cameras, headphones, portable gaming consoles, and, importantly, laptops. Though, there’s a crucial nuance: the regulation considers the size and power requirements of devices.Laptops have a longer transition period, and manufacturers can demonstrate that requiring USB-C would technically harm the product’s performance or functionality.
Apple and the USB-C Transition
Apple has already begun transitioning its product line to USB-C. The entire MacBook lineup, including the M5 MacBook Pro, already uses USB-C charging. This is *not* a result of a ban, but a proactive move by Apple to comply with the upcoming EU regulations and, arguably, to improve the user experience.
The iPhone Situation
The more significant change for Apple was the switch to USB-C on the iPhone 15 series. For years, Apple used its proprietary Lightning connector. The EU regulation directly impacted this, forcing Apple to adopt USB-C for iPhones sold in Europe. This is where much of the confusion stems from – people conflate the iPhone change with a supposed MacBook ban.
Why the Misinformation?
The claim of a MacBook charger ban likely originated from misunderstanding the scope of the EU regulation and Apple’s existing compliance. Some reports incorrectly interpreted the regulation as a blanket ban on including chargers with all devices, which isn’t true.Others may have sensationalized the iPhone change and incorrectly applied it to all Apple products.
Key Takeaways
- the EU isn’t banning apple from including chargers with the M5 MacBook Pro.
- The EU is mandating USB-C as a common charging standard for many devices.
- Apple already uses USB-C for its MacBook lineup, complying with the regulation.
- The biggest change for Apple was switching the iPhone to USB-C.
- The goal of the regulation is to reduce e-waste and simplify charging for consumers.
FAQ
- Does the EU regulation mean all devices will come with a charger?
- no. The regulation doesn’t *require* manufacturers to include a charger. It simply mandates a common charging port (USB-C) and allows consumers to purchase chargers separately if thay choose.
- What about older devices that use different charging ports?
- The regulation applies to new devices sold after the implementation date. You can continue to use your existing devices and chargers.
- Will this affect devices sold outside of the EU?
- Not directly. However, some manufacturers may choose to standardize on USB-C globally to simplify their supply chain and reduce costs.
Published: 2026/01/04 17:07:23
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