15-inch, M3, 2024 8GB MacBook Air No Apple Intelligence

I recently purchased a 15-inch M3 MacBook Air (2024) and was excited about the investment, particularly with Apple Intelligence set to launch this year. I chose this device to prepare for the upcoming changes and innovations on the horizon. My Apple ecosystem is extensive, including AirPods, iPads, iPhones, HomePods (yes, even HomePods), and now this new 15-inch M3 MacBook Air.

However, I was shocked to learn that Apple released this MacBook Air just three months before the debut of macOS Sequoia and Apple Intelligence, neither of which it meets the system requirements to fully utilize. This feels like a glaring oversight on Apple’s part. The decision to upgrade the base memory of the current Mac lineup from 8GB to 16GB shortly after this MacBook Air’s release further underscores the issue. It’s frustrating to see Apple treat early adopters like ATMs rather than valued customers.

As someone who values "an obsession with delivering an exceptional customer experience", this decision from Apple is deeply disappointing. It feels like those of us who purchased this MacBook Air were left with a brand-new but already outdated device. I hope Apple steps up with a repair program or initiative to replace the SoC with a 16GB version for affected users, but I’ve seen no mention of such plans. Timing is everything, and Apple seems to have overlooked the impact on its most loyal customers.