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20th Dec 2016

This is the Next Macbook Air

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Macbook users looking to update to their next machine should not have to wait much longer. 9 to 5 Mac have released, what we can assume are concept mockups, of the next Macbook Air. While it keeps in line with previous Apple pieces of industrial design, the latest pictures include some interesting information, which may prove deal-breaking to some.

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It has a 12 inch screen, and has no internal fans. The profile of the next Macbook Air is less angled and is potentially thinner than even the current 11 inch Macbook Air.

Having a 12 inch screen places it exactly in-between the two others in the Macbook Air family, which may lead some to suggest that they are simplifying the product line.

Its keyboard has also been modified in order to maximise the space. The power button has moved from the top right to the top left and there is less space between the keys. The speakers are now visible on the top of the keyboard, as opposed to being hidden in the vent in the current generation, which could result in less muffled (and hopefully less tinny) audio.

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Apple strive for thinness and minimalism and this Macbook Air is no exception. From the image above, it could suggest that you may only be able to plug in 2 things into the Macbook, including the power cord. In fact, it looks as if Apple have decided to embrace the next generation of USB, the long awaited USB-C, which allows you to plug in your usb gear in whatever direction you want to. But if you do, do not expect to be able to charge the computer while doing so.

This is slightly confusing (and concerning), but it may be a required compromise in order to make space for the upgraded internals, rumoured to be the next Intel Broadwell chip.

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This is what we expect of Apple, besting themselves in thinness, which in turn compromise things that we rely on a daily basis. Removing the thunderbolt, additional USB, MagSafe ports, SD card slot may be controversial, but Apple are known to be ruthless in killing redundant technologies. This isnt the ideal situation for new Macbook Air buyers, but if Apple can prove to people that they can still be productive without all these ports, whether thats in the form of an accessory, or a charger that adds extensibiilty, it could be the perfect device.

9 to 5 Mac, say it could reach consumers in the summer, and that it may already be in production.

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