The FaceTime camera in the M4 MacBook Air has undergone significant improvements compared to its predecessors. Here are the key enhancements:
1. Resolution Upgrade: The M4 MacBook Air features a new 12-megapixel camera, replacing the previous 1080p FaceTime HD camera found in earlier models like the M3[1][4][7]. This higher resolution is expected to provide sharper images, addressing long-standing criticisms of MacBook webcam quality.
2. Center Stage Support: The new camera supports Center Stage, a feature that uses machine learning to automatically keep users centered in the frame during video calls, even as they move around[1][4][7]. This feature was previously available on iPads and Apple Studio Displays.
3. Desk View: In addition to Center Stage, the camera also supports Desk View, which allows users to show the area in front of the Mac during video calls. This can be particularly useful for presentations or demonstrations where users need to display items on their desk[1][4][10].
4. 1080p HD Video Recording: Despite the higher megapixel count, the camera still records video at 1080p HD resolution. However, it is enhanced by an advanced image signal processor with computational video capabilities, which helps improve video quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions[3][4].
Overall, these improvements aim to enhance the video conferencing experience, making the M4 MacBook Air more suitable for remote work and virtual meetings.
Citations:[1] https://www.macrumors.com/2025/03/06/new-m4-macbook-air-6-key-things/
[2] https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidphelan/2025/03/05/apple-reveals-new-macbook-air-price-slashed-by-100-upgraded-chip-and-new-color/
[3] https://www.heise.de/en/news/iMac-M4-and-MacBook-Pro-M4-What-the-new-cameras-can-do-10001434.html
[4] https://9to5mac.com/2025/03/05/m4-macbook-air-vs-m3-macbook-air-five-reasons-to-upgrade-early/
[5] https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/new-macbook-air-coming-this-week-what-to-expect.2451247/
[6] https://sixcolors.com/post/2024/11/m4-m4-pro-macbook-pro-review-brighter-clearer-faster/
[7] https://9meters.com/technology/macbooks/apple-launches-new-m4-macbook-air-at-999-with-sky-blue-color-option-12mp-facetime-camera
[8] https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/m4-macbook-launched/
[9] https://www.techradar.com/computing/macbooks/apple-finally-unveils-the-macbook-air-with-the-m4-chip-but-the-best-news-is-the-new-price
[10] https://www.moneycontrol.com/technology/apple-unveils-m4-macbook-air-is-it-worth-upgrading-from-the-m3-model-article-12957847.html