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M3 MacBook Air Models Now Available for Same-Day Pickup

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Starting today, Apple’s refreshed MacBook Air models with M3 chips are available for same-day or next-day pickup at Apple Stores, with no pre-order required. Online orders are also beginning to arrive to customers today.

macbook air new blue
Customers across the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, and other regions can now place an order on Apple’s website or in the Apple Store app and arrange for in-store pickup at a local retail location.

To order a product with ‌Apple Store‌ pickup, add the product to your bag on Apple.com, proceed to checkout, select the “I’ll pick it up” option, enter your ZIP code, choose an available ‌Apple Store‌ location, and select a pickup date. Payment is completed online, and a valid government-issued photo ID and the order number may be required upon pickup.

In addition to the M3 chip, the new 13-inch and 15-inch ‌‌MacBook Air‌ models‌ offer Wi-Fi 6E, Voice Isolation and Wide Spectrum microphone modes, enhanced voice clarity in audio and video calls, and a more fingerprint-resistant finish with the Midnight color option. They also now support up to two external displays when the laptop lid is closed, increasing from just a single external display on the previous Apple silicon models.

There are no major external design changes to the M3 ‌MacBook Air‌ models, which continue to be available in Midnight, Starlight, Space Gray, and Silver colors. Pricing for the 13-inch ‌MacBook Air‌ starts at $1,099, while the 15-inch ‌MacBook Air‌ starts at $1,299.

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13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Air with M3 chip now available in stores

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2024 MacBook Air
You can now get the M3 MacBook Air from your nearest Apple store.
Photo: Apple

Apple’s new M3 MacBook Airs, announced earlier this week, are now on sale. The 13-inch and 15-inch models feature upgraded internals and faster Wi-Fi.

Pre-orders for the new Airs went live right after Apple’s announcement on March 4.

2024 MacBook Air is all about the M3 chip

From the outside, the M3 MacBook Air(s) look the same as their predecessors. But internally, they pack two key changes. The first is the switch to a faster and more efficient M3 chip. Apple claims a performance boost of up to 60 percent than the M1 chip and “up to 13x faster than the fastest Intel-based MacBook Air.”

The M3 SoC debuted on the M3 MacBook Pro last fall. It also features a revamped GPU with mesh shading and ray tracing for better performance and higher-quality graphics. While there are no new AI features on the M3 MacBook Airs, Apple claims they are “the world’s best consumer laptop for AI,” thanks to the faster 16-core Neural Engine.

Besides the faster performance, the new M3 Airs support dual external displays — a first in the lineup. But there’s a catch: you can only use the second monitor with the laptop’s lid closed.

Lastly, Apple’s 2024 MacBook Air lineup has Wi-Fi 6E support, allowing for faster wireless transfer speeds. You can read our M2 vs. M3 MacBook Air comparison to learn more about their differences.

Despite the big performance boost, Apple claims the new M3 Air can last up to 18 hours on a charge.

Same starting price as their M2 predecessors

The new 13-inch MacBook Air and 15-inch Air with M3 chip have the same starting price as their predecessors: $1,099 and $1,299, respectively. Education customers can get an additional $100 off this price.

If you pre-ordered the laptop, you should receive it today. If not, you can buy one from the Apple store nearest to you.

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Best Apple Deals of the Week: First Discounts Hit M3 MacBook Air Alongside Rare HomePod Sales

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This week saw the launch of Apple’s latest notebook, the M3 MacBook Air, and Best Buy has the first discount for My Best Buy Plus/Total members. You can also find record low prices on HomePod, HomePod mini, MacBook Air, and the MagSafe Duo Charger in this week’s best deals.

Hero0002Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with some of these vendors. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Samsung

samsung viewfinity green

  • What’s the deal? Get $750 off Samsung ViewFinity S9 5K Smart Monitor
  • Where can I get it? Samsung
  • Where can I find the original deal? Right here

Early in the week, Samsung introduced a discount on the 27-inch ViewFinity S9 5K Smart Monitor, and today it’s been discounted even more during the Discover Samsung sale. You can get this monitor for the new all-time low price of $849.99, down from $1,599.99. There are also deals on other monitors, smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and more in Samsung’s sale.

Additionally, when you sign up to learn more about Samsung’s upcoming TV and audio product lineup, you can get $100 off your purchase. The new slate of Samsung TVs and audio equipment is set to be unveiled on March 21, and this $100 discount offer will be available through that date.

M3 MacBook Air

m3 macbook air green

  • What’s the deal? Get $50 off M3 MacBook Air
  • Where can I get it? Best Buy
  • Where can I find the original deal? Right here

Note: Discounts available only to My Best Buy Plus/Total members.

Following the introduction of the 13-inch and 15-inch M3 MacBook Air this week, Best Buy became the first retailer with discounts on the new notebooks. The only caveat is that you’ll need a My Best Buy Plus/Total membership to take advantage of the sales, which have $50 off these models.

M1 MacBook Air

m1 macbook air green

  • What’s the deal? Get $250 off 13-inch M1 MacBook Air
  • Where can I get it? Best Buy
  • Where can I find the original deal? Right here

Apple discontinued the 13-inch M1 MacBook Air this week, but Best Buy has it at the all-time low price of $749.99 in all colors today, down from $999.99. Although nearly four years old, this version of the MacBook Air still has an Apple silicon chip and should be perfect for anyone who wants to prioritize saving money over having the latest and greatest product.

MagSafe

magsafe green

  • What’s the deal? Get $54 off MagSafe Duo and $12 off MagSafe Charger
  • Where can I get it? Woot
  • Where can I find the original deal? Right here

You can get Apple’s MagSafe Duo Charger for the all-time low price of $74.99 right now at Woot, down from $129.00. Woot also has the MagSafe Charger for $26.99, which is a solid second-best price. Both chargers are in new condition and come with a one year Apple limited warranty, and the MagSafe Charger comes in bulk packaging.

HomePod

homepod green

  • What’s the deal? Get up to $30 off HomePod and HomePod mini
  • Where can I get it? Best Buy

Finally, Best Buy today introduced the first discounts on the HomePod mini and HomePod that we’ve seen in months, and both are at all-time low prices. You can get the HomePod mini for $79.99 in all colors and the second generation HomePod for $269.99 in both colors.

Head to our full Deals Roundup to get caught up with all of the latest deals and discounts that we’ve been tracking over the past week.

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MacBook Air Buyer’s Guide: Comparing the Generations

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Apple’s MacBook Air has undergone some major changes in recent years, including the switch to Apple silicon, a complete redesign, and the introduction of a 15-inch model, making it all the more important to consider if now is a good time to upgrade or if an older model will suffice for your needs.

MacBook Air 15 Inch Feature Yellow
Following its latest refresh, Apple discontinued the M1 13-inch ‌MacBook Air‌ from 2020 and the M2 15-inch ‌MacBook Air‌ from 2023. Now, customers can choose between the ‌M2‌ 13-inch ‌MacBook Air‌ from 2022 for $999, and the M3 13- and 15-inch MacBook Airs that were just introduced for $1,099 and $1,299, respectively.

See the breakdown below for each new feature, change, and improvement that was added with each ‌MacBook Air‌ model since 2018 compared to its direct predecessor:

MacBook Air (M3, 2024)

  • M3 Chip
  • 15% faster Neural Engine
  • Support for AV1 decode
  • New GPU architecture
  • Dynamic Caching
  • Hardware-accelerated ray tracing
  • Hardware-accelerated mesh shading
  • Support for up to two external displays when the lid is closed
  • Voice Isolation and Wide Spectrum microphone modes
  • Enhanced voice clarity in audio and video calls
  • Wi-Fi 6E
  • Anodization seal to reduce fingerprints with Midnight finish

MacBook Air (M2, 2022/2023)

  • Thinner design with flat lid, rounded bottom edges, and uniform thickness
  • 13.6- or 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display
  • Apple ‌M2‌ chip
  • Up to 10-core GPU
  • Hardware-accelerated H.264, HEVC, ProRes and ProRes RAW
  • ProRes encode and decode engine
  • Up to 24GB unified memory
  • 100GB/s memory bandwidth
  • 500 nits brightness
  • 1080p FaceTime HD camera
  • Four-speaker sound system or six-speaker sound system with force-cancelling woofers
  • 3.5mm headphone jack with support for high-impedance headphones
  • Bluetooth 5.3
  • MagSafe 3
  • Fast-charge capable with available 70W USB‑C Power Adapter
  • Available in Silver, Space Gray, Starlight, and Midnight
  • 1.24 kg (2.7 pounds) or 1.51 kg (3.3 pounds)

MacBook Air (M1, 2020)

  • Apple ‌M1‌ chip
  • 8-core CPU
  • Up to 8-core GPU
  • Media engine
  • Hardware-accelerated H.264 and HEVC
  • Video decode engine
  • Video encode engine
  • 16-core Neural Engine
  • Up to 16GB unified memory
  • 62.5GB/s memory bandwidth
  • Wide colour (P3)
  • Image signal processor with computational video
  • Up to 18-hour battery life

MacBook Air (Intel, 2020)

  • Up to Intel Core i7 processor
  • Intel Iris Plus Graphics GPU
  • Up to 2TB storage
  • Magic Keyboard
  • Bluetooth 5.0
  • 1.29 kg (2.8 pounds)

MacBook Air (Intel, 2018)

  • Tapered “wedge” design
  • 13.3-inch Retina display
  • Up to Intel Core i5 processor
  • Up to 4-core CPU
  • Intel UHD Graphics 617
  • Up to 16GB memory
  • Up to 1.5TB storage
  • Butterfly Keyboard
  • 400 nits brightness
  • Full standard colour (sRGB)
  • 720p ‌FaceTime‌ HD camera
  • Stereo speakers
  • 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Wi‑Fi 6
  • Bluetooth 4.2
  • Up to 12-hour battery life
  • Available in Silver, Space Gray, and Gold
  • 1.25 kg (2.75 pounds)

‌M2‌ ‌MacBook Air‌ users have very little reason to upgrade to an M3 model unless they need absolute peak performance and don’t want to buy a MacBook Pro, or perhaps if they purchased the 13-inch machine in 2022 and are now interested in the 15-inch M3 model.

Most ‌M1‌ ‌MacBook Air‌ users will stand to benefit from upgrading to the M3 model, especially if they are looking for a bigger screen and opt for the 15-inch model. These users would gain a much more modern design, a larger and brighter display, better performance, faster memory, a 1080p camera, improved speakers, ‌MagSafe‌ 3, fast-charging, and more. Nevertheless, some ‌M1‌ ‌MacBook Air‌ users may be better off waiting for the next major refresh if they are still happy with the machine, and upgrading is not essential.

For those who have an Intel-based ‌MacBook Air‌, either of the generations currently on sale represent a highly worthwhile upgrade spearheaded by Apple silicon for a major performance improvement and upgrading is recommended, with many of the above upgrades quickly stacking up.

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The MacRumors Show: Apple’s New MacBook Air With M3!

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On this week’s episode of The MacRumors Show, we discuss Apple’s new MacBook Air models featuring the M3 chip.

We delve into the new machines’ features, exploring upgrades such as the M3 chip, improved microphones, and more versatile external display support. We discuss the MacBook Air’s ideal configurations and key buying decisions, weighing the new machines up against the MacBook Pro, and take a look at where the ‌MacBook Air‌ could be headed next amid reports of an significant upgrade to OLED display technology in the future. We also discuss the rest of Apple’s rumored announcements for March, which include new OLED iPad Pro models, a new Apple Pencil, and a redesigned Magic Keyboard accessory.

The MacRumors Show is now on its own YouTube channel, so make sure you’re subscribed to keep up with new episodes and clips going forward:

You can also listen to ‌The MacRumors Show‌ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or your preferred podcasts app. You can also copy our RSS feed directly into your podcast player.

If you haven’t already listened to the previous episode of The MacRumors Show, catch up for our discussion about Apple’s decision to cancel its long-rumored electric vehicle project.

Subscribe to ‌The MacRumors Show‌ for new episodes every week, where we discuss some of the topical news breaking here on MacRumors, often joined by interesting guests such as Brian Tong, Quinn Nelson, Kevin Nether, Jared Nelson, Eli Hodapp, Luke Miani, Mike Bell, Sara Dietschy, iJustine, Jon Rettinger, Andru Edwards, Arnold Kim, Ben Sullins, Marcus Kane, Christopher Lawley, Frank McShan, David Lewis, Tyler Stalman, Jon Prosser, Sam Kohl, John Gruber, Federico Viticci, Thomas Frank, Jonathan Morrison, Ross Young, Ian Zelbo, and Rene Ritchie.

‌The MacRumors Show‌ is on X @MacRumorsShow, so be sure to give us a follow to keep up with the podcast. You can also head over to The MacRumors Show forum thread to engage with us directly. Remember to rate and review the podcast, and let us know what subjects and guests you would like to see in the future.



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Hands-On With the 2024 M3 MacBook Air

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Apple’s M3 MacBook Air models are in stores as of today, so we picked one up to test it out, see what’s new, answer reader questions, and determine whether it’s worth buying or upgrading to.

The ‌MacBook Air‌ is available in 13.6-inch and 15.3-inch sizes, just like the prior-generation versions. Apple did not introduce notable design changes this time around, so most of what’s new is on the inside.

An M3 chip is the main upgrade, and this is the same chip that Apple already used in the 14-inch MacBook Pro. When we benchmarked our test unit with an 8-core GPU and 10-core GPU, we got a Geekbench single-core score of 3106 and a multi-core score of 11690. For comparison’s sake, the M1 ‌MacBook Air‌ scored 2335/8314 and the M2 ‌MacBook Air‌ scored 2595/9745, so that’s a decent boost in CPU performance.

Compared to the ‌M1‌, single-core M3 performance is up 28 percent, and multi-core performance is up 34 percent. Compared to the ‌M2‌, both the single-core and multi-core CPU tests came in at 18 percent higher. As for Metal GPU scores, the ‌M1‌ earned a score of 32117, the ‌M2‌ was at 45651, and the M3 was at 46920.

Overall, CPU and GPU performance have improved notably over the ‌M1‌ and more modestly over the ‌M2‌. It’s worth noting that the M3 also has hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading that are of use for 3D rendering and will eventually make games on the Mac more realistic. AV1 decode should improve streaming from services that support the codec.

There are a couple of other improvements to note, including Wi-Fi 6E support for connecting to 6GHz networks. You might not see too many 6GHz networks just yet, but it’s a good future proofing feature if you don’t already have a 6E router. The M3 models support two external displays in clamshell mode rather than just one, call clarity is better than before, and there’s a new finish on the midnight model to cut down on fingerprints.

Pricing on the 13-inch ‌MacBook Air‌ starts at $1099 and pricing on the 15-inch model starts at $1299. It’s not worth upgrading to the new machine if you already have an ‌M2‌ ‌MacBook Air‌ because those machines already have the 2022/2023 design, but if you have an ‌M1‌ or any Intel model and are looking for a new solution, the M3 ‌MacBook Air‌ is worth considering.

In terms of upgrades, if you’re just using the ‌MacBook Air‌ for day-to-day tasks like web browsing and email, you don’t need to shell out extra money for more memory, a better GPU (13-inch model), or more storage, but if you plan to use it for more system intensive tasks, it’s worth looking at some of those upgrades.

Did you pick up one of the new M3 ‌MacBook Air‌ models? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

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How to Make Your MacBook Run Faster

MacBook

MacBooks have earned a stellar reputation for their rapid processing speeds and overall operational efficiency, setting a benchmark in the computing industry for smooth and reliable performance. However, it is important to acknowledge that, similar to all technological devices, MacBooks are not immune to the gradual decline in speed and efficiency over time. This can be attributed to a variety of factors, ranging from software overload to outdated hardware components. The good news is that there’s no need for concern if you’ve started to notice your MacBook lagging behind its usual pace.

We have meticulously prepared a comprehensive guide designed to assist you in identifying the root causes of your MacBook’s reduced speed. This guide not only delves into the potential reasons for the slowdown but also provides you with a step-by-step strategy to enhance and optimize your MacBook’s performance, ensuring it operates at its peak efficiency once again. Through this detailed exploration, we aim to empower you with the knowledge and tools necessary to maintain your MacBook’s speed and efficiency, effectively extending its lifespan and enhancing your computing experience.

Step 1: Identify the Bottlenecks

  • Activity Monitor: Your first port of call is Activity Monitor (Applications > Utilities). Explore these tabs:
    • CPU: See if any specific process is hogging processor power. If so, investigate and quit or adjust it if necessary.
    • Memory: High memory usage means your Mac needs more RAM. Close unnecessary apps or upgrade your RAM if consistently close to full.
    • Disk: Is your disk nearly full? If so, it’s time for a cleanout.
    • Energy: Look for apps with a high “Energy Impact”.
    • Network: Monitor network activity, identifying if anything is overloading your bandwidth.

Step 2: Free Up Disk Space

  • Delete or Move Large Files: Find large video, music, or project files you can archive to an external drive or delete.
  • Optimize Storage: macOS has a built-in feature that helps reduce clutter:
    1. Apple menu > About this Mac > Storage > Manage
    2. Use recommendations like storing files in iCloud, emptying the trash automatically, or reviewing large files.
  • Uninstall Unused Apps: Drag apps you don’t use to the Trash. Use dedicated uninstaller software if available for thorough removal.
  • Clear Caches: Use a tool like CleanMyMac X or similar to delete system and app-related cache files safely.

Step 3: Reduce Resource Hogs

  • Close Unnecessary Apps: Practice good app management. Apps running in the background strain resources.
  • Limit Startup Items:
    1. System Preferences (System Settings in newer macOS) > Users & Groups > Login Items
    2. Remove anything you don’t need to launch automatically on startup.
  • Manage Browser Tabs and Extensions: Too many tabs or power-hungry extensions slow down your browser and affect overall performance.

Step 4: System Maintenance

  • Update macOS: Updates often bring performance improvements and bug fixes. System Preferences (or System Settings) > Software Update
  • Run Disk Utility: This tool can repair minor disk issues.
    1. Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility
    2. Select your drive and click “First Aid”.
  • Reset NVRAM/PRAM or SMC This can resolve certain performance oddities (check Apple’s support site for instructions specific to your MacBook model).

Step 5: Advanced Troubleshooting

  • Malware Scan: Use reputable anti-malware software to scan for any infection that might be slowing your system.
  • External Devices: Disconnect unnecessary external devices to rule out potential conflicts.

  • Hardware Check: If problems persist, consider hardware issues. A trip to an Apple Genius Bar or a certified technician might be needed.

Important Extras

  • Time Machine Backups: Before major changes, always create a backup in case something goes wrong.
  • Hardware Upgrades: Consider a RAM upgrade or replacing a traditional hard drive (HDD) with an SSD (Solid State Drive) for significant speed boosts.

Summary

By carefully addressing the common causes of slowdown, you can restore your MacBook to its optimal performance. It’s crucial to understand that achieving and maintaining the zenith of your MacBook’s capabilities necessitates a commitment to regular maintenance routines. This encompasses a vigilant approach towards the applications you install and use, ensuring that only necessary software occupies your system’s resources. Additionally, the importance of keeping your operating system and all installed applications up-to-date cannot be overstated. Software updates often include optimizations and fixes that can significantly enhance the speed and responsiveness of your machine.

By embracing these practices—regular system check-ups, judicious management of applications, and ensuring your MacBook’s software environment remains current—you lay the foundation for a computing experience that is consistently fast, efficient, and devoid of unnecessary slowdowns. This proactive approach not only preserves the operational integrity of your MacBook but also extends its service life, providing you with a reliably swift and responsive machine for a longer duration.

Image Credit: Francisco De Legarreta C.

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MacBook USB-C 13 port multimedia hub with Power Delivery 3

13 port MacBook hub connections

MacBook users  searching for an easy way to quickly expand the connectivity of their MacBook Pro or MacBook Air might be interested in a fantastic, lightweight USB-C hub from EZQuest. The EZQuest USB-C Multimedia Hub Adapter has been specifically designed to provide users with a powerful accessory that can transform your MacBook into a connectivity powerhouse, all for a reasonable price of $59.99. It’s designed to meet the needs of users who require more from their devices, whether for work or play.

The EZQuest adapter comes equipped with an impressive 13 ports, making it a one-stop solution for all your connectivity needs. It features dual HDMI 4K 60Hz outputs, allowing you to connect to two high-resolution displays for a stunning visual experience. For those who still use older monitors, there’s also a VGA port, ensuring you can connect to a wide range of display equipment.

But the adapter doesn’t stop at display options. It includes four USB ports—two USB 3.0 and two USB 2.0—so you can hook up a variety of peripherals, from keyboards and mice to external hard drives and more. The inclusion of two USB-C ports further enhances your MacBook’s functionality. One of these supports Power Delivery 3.0, which means you can charge your MacBook at full speed while using the adapter. The other USB-C port is designed for fast data transfers at 10Gb/s and also provides additional charging capabilities.

EZQuest 13 port MacBook USB-C hub

It’s important to note that the adapter is specifically engineered for MacBooks with dual Thunderbolt/USB-C ports. This ensures seamless compatibility with both the Pro and Air models. However, MacBook owners with the latest Apple M1 and M2 chips should be aware that their devices can only support a single external display due to chipset restrictions.

When it comes to data and power, the EZQuest adapter doesn’t disappoint. It offers robust data transfer speeds, with a 10Gb/s USB-C port and two USB-A 3.0 ports at 5Gb/s. Additionally, there are two USB-A 2.0 ports at 480Mb/s. The adapter’s total shared data bandwidth is an impressive 10Gb/s. For power, the adapter features a 100W USB-C Power Delivery port, and the USB-A ports share a combined output of 15W.

The adapter also boasts additional features that enhance its utility. There’s a Gigabit Ethernet port for a stable internet connection, an SDHC/Micro SDHC card reader for easy data transfer from memory cards, and a 3.5mm audio jack that supports microphones. The 16 CM cable is designed with an easy connect-disconnect grip, and an LED power indicator keeps you informed about the hub’s status.

MacBook hub features and specifications

  • Connection to two HDMI 4K 60Hz displays or a VGA port for display extension or mirroring.
  • Four USB ports for connecting standard USB 3.0 or 2.0 devices.
  •  Two USB-C ports, one with Power Delivery 3.0 for pass-thru charging up to 100 watts and Fast Role Swap technology, and the other for 10Gb/s data transfer and 5V/1.5A charging.
  •  Compatibility with Apple MacBook Pro or Air, specifically designed for models with dual Thunderbolt/USB-C ports.
  •  Limitation for Apple M1 and M2 chip users to only one external display.
  • Data transfer capabilities include a 10Gb/s USB-C port, two USB-A 3.0 ports at 5Gbs, and two USB-A 2.0 ports at 480Mbs, with a total shared data bandwidth of 10Gbs.
  • Power input and output specifications include a 100W USB-C Power Delivery port and various USB-A ports with different power outputs, totaling 15W shared power.
  • Does not support Apple SuperDrive
  • Additional features include a Gigabit Ethernet connection, SDHC/Micro SDHC card reader, a 3.5mm audio jack with microphone support, a 16 CM cable with an EZ connect-disconnect grip, an LED power indicator, and a VGA port.

Supported  monitor configurations and resolutions

MacBook three screen hub

Supported  monitor configurations and resolutions

Pricing and availability

The EZquest MacBook USB-C multimedia hub is currently on sale for $59.99, from the official EZquest website down from the regular price of $99.99 and is available to purchase from online stores such as Amazon.

Overall, the EZQuest USB-C Multimedia Hub Adapter is a valuable addition to any MacBook user’s toolkit. It offers a wide range of connectivity options, supports high-resolution displays, and provides fast data transfer speeds, all while keeping your MacBook charged at a great price.

Whether you’re a professional needing to connect multiple devices or a casual user looking to enhance your MacBook’s capabilities, this adapter is a practical and affordable solution.  It is worth mentioning that the adapter is not compatible with the Apple SuperDrive, so if that’s a deal-breaker, you may need to look for other options. However, the EZQuest USB-C Multimedia Hub Adapter does come with a 1-year warranty, giving you peace of mind.

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How to Clean Your MacBook or MacBook Air

Clean Your MacBook or MacBook Air

This guide will show you how to safely clean your MacBook or MacBook Air. Your MacBook serves as a robust instrument for a myriad of tasks, whether it’s for professional work, creative projects, or personal entertainment. However, to maintain its optimal performance and sleek appearance, regular maintenance in the form of cleaning is essential. Over time, accumulations of dust, grime, and fingerprints can not only detract from its elegant design but also potentially interfere with its functionality. Factors such as airflow obstruction due to dust buildup and compromised sensor accuracy from smudges can affect its efficiency.

To address this, we’ve compiled an extensive guide aimed at providing you with safe and effective methods to clean your MacBook or MacBook Air. This guide will cover everything from the necessary materials, to step-by-step instructions, ensuring your device remains in pristine condition both inside and out.

Before You Begin:

  • Power down and unplug your MacBook. Never clean while powered on to avoid electrical damage.
  • Gather your supplies:
    • Microfiber cloths (separate ones for the screen and body)
    • Compressed air canister (optional)
    • Isopropyl alcohol (70%) solution (mixed with distilled water in equal parts) in a spray bottle (optional)
    • Cotton swabs (optional)
    • Toothpicks (optional, for stubborn debris)
  • Clear a workspace: Choose a clean, well-lit area.

Cleaning the Exterior:

  1. Wipe down the body: Use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. Avoid using excessive moisture, as it can seep into openings.
  2. Target stubborn grime: For tougher marks, dampen the cloth with the isopropyl alcohol solution and wipe gently. Never apply the solution directly to the MacBook.
  3. Clean the ports and vents: Use a compressed air canister to blow out dust and debris. Hold the can upright and shoot short bursts into each port and vent, keeping the nozzle at least an inch away.

Cleaning the Keyboard:

  1. Turn the MacBook upside down and gently tap it to dislodge crumbs and dust. Hold a trash can nearby to catch debris.
  2. Use a compressed air canister to blow out any remaining dust. Be careful not to tilt the MacBook too much, as loose keys could fall out.
  3. For stubborn debris: Dip a cotton swab in the isopropyl alcohol solution and carefully clean between the keys. Avoid saturating the swab, and never press down hard on the keys.

Cleaning the Screen:

  1. Turn off the display and unplug the power adapter.
  2. Dampen a microfiber cloth with distilled water only. Never use cleaning solutions directly on the screen.
  3. Wipe the screen gently in circular motions. Avoid applying pressure, as it can damage the anti-reflective coating.
  4. For stubborn smudges: Moisten the cloth slightly with the isopropyl alcohol solution and wipe gently. Never apply the solution directly to the screen.

Additional Tips:

  • Never submerge your MacBook in any liquid.
  • Don’t use harsh chemicals, abrasives, or cleaners containing bleach or hydrogen peroxide.
  • Avoid using paper towels or tissues, as they can scratch the screen.
  • Clean your MacBook regularly to prevent dust and grime buildup.
  • For deep cleaning or stubborn issues, consult an Apple Authorized Service Provider.

Adhering to the steps outlined in this guide will empower you to maintain your MacBook or MacBook Air in peak condition, both in terms of its aesthetic appeal and operational performance. This diligent approach to upkeep not only guarantees a seamless and pleasurable computing experience but also plays a crucial role in preserving the intrinsic value and extended lifespan of your cherished device.

Regular cleaning it is a fundamental practice that safeguards the device’s functionality, prevents potential damage from buildup, and contributes significantly to its overall longevity. By incorporating these maintenance routines into your regular schedule, you ensure that your MacBook remains a reliable and high-performing companion in all your digital endeavors. You can find out more details on what you should use to clean your MacBook or MacBook Air over at Apple’s website.

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8 AI Powered Apps for Your Mac or MacBook

AI Apps Mac

If you’re a Mac user looking to streamline your digital life, you’re in for a treat we have a great video which details some amazing AI apps for the Mac. The realm of AI-powered applications has expanded significantly, offering a variety of tools that cater to different needs. Whether you’re a professional seeking efficiency or a casual user craving convenience, these apps promise to enhance your Mac experience. Here’s a curated list of eight such applications from MacVince on YouTube that are not just innovative but also incredibly practical.

1. Scusi: Your Voice-to-Text Companion Imagine a tool that silently and swiftly converts your voice messages to text. Meet Scusi, a voice-to-text conversion app that does just that. With support for 16 languages, courtesy of Apple’s AI-powered dictation, Scusi stands out as a reliable assistant. What’s more? It’s free to use, making it an accessible tool for everyone.

2. MacBing: Bing AI Chat at Your Fingertips You will be pleased to know that MacBing brings Bing AI Chat directly to your Mac with just a click. Based on the advanced ChatGPT-4, it offers a range of features including adjustable text generation styles and image queries. Unlike the subscription-based ChatGPT Plus, MacBing is free, though it requires a Microsoft account.

3. Scan Thing: Precision in Image Scanning If you’re wondering how to isolate specific elements from an image with precision, Scan Thing is the answer. This app uses AI to provide accurate cut-outs with transparent backgrounds. The first 12 images are free, and for those who need more, there’s an option for unlimited scans with a one-time fee.

4. Upscayl: Enhance Your Images with AI Image resolution enhancement is now a breeze with Upscayl. It uses AI to upscale images, ensuring high quality while working locally on your Mac. This means your images aren’t uploaded to external servers. Better still, Upscayl is free and open-source.

5. Grammarly: More Than Just a Writing Assistant Grammarly has long been known for its spelling, grammar, and style checks. Now, it adds an AI-powered text generator to its arsenal. With options to customize writing style and tone, it’s a versatile tool for any writer. The free version generously offers up to 100 AI prompts per month.

6. MacWhisper: Transcribe With Ease Transcribing audio files or YouTube videos is no longer a hassle thanks to MacWhisper. This speech-to-text model excels in providing basic transcriptions for free. For those seeking enhanced accuracy, there’s a Pro version available.

7. DiffusionBee: Unleash Your Artistic Flair Unleash your creative potential with DiffusionBee, an AI art generation app that uses the Stable Diffusion model. It allows for custom image descriptions and styles, enabling you to generate unique artwork. The app works offline and is free to download, making it an excellent tool for artists and hobbyists alike.

8. Adobe Podcast AI: Studio-Quality Audio Made Simple Adobe Podcast AI is a boon for podcasters and content creators. It enhances the audio quality of spoken content by removing background noise and reverb, simulating a studio-quality recording. This web-based tool is free to use, offering professional-grade audio enhancements at no cost.

These apps demonstrate the versatility and utility of AI in enhancing the Mac experience. Whether you’re looking to improve productivity, unleash creativity, or simply make life a little easier, these tools are worth exploring.

Source & Image Credit: MacVince

Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Guides





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