[JohnTHaller]

A user can't be blamed too much for assuming a $2k+ laptop with Pro in the name supports multiple external displays. A 2013 MacBook Pro can drive two external displays. But the base M1 and M2 MacBook Pros can not. The base M3 apparently can with specific hookups and a specific connection procedure requiring you to close the MacBook's lid but can't use standard docks with DisplayPort MST like other laptops can.

And I say this as someone who bought and uses a used M1 MacBook Air and knew about the display limitation when I purchased it (and almost went with a used Mac Mini instead due to that limitation).