This week on The CultCast: Big Mac updates! Apple just refreshed the MacBook Air (and dropped the price), and supercharged the 13-inch MacBook Pro. Plus: A new report says Apple will finally update the butterfly keyboard with a design we were all hoping for. And we wrap with a true story that could save you thousands: How neglecting the batteries in your tech could cost you big-time…
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Episode
#396 – Big Mac updates!
On the show this week
@erfon / @lkahney / @lewiswallace
This week’s stories
Apple may be gearing up to replace controversial MacBook keyboard
- According to a new research note from Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is set to replace them with a whole new keyboard switch mechanism. According to big Ming, this will debut with the 2019 MacBook Air (more on that in a second)
- This would be a return to the previous keyboard design, but with an Apple twist.
- Kuo says the switches in the new scissor keyboards will be made from glass-filled nylon, and material that is stronger than plastic, so it allows Apple to make the internal components stronger and thinner.
- This is the same material used in the switches of the 2015 butterfly keyboard mechanisms.
Latest MacBooks still use Apple’s flawed butterfly keyboard
- Big Ming got it wrong: Apple’s newest MacBooks use the same third-gen keyboard as the 2019 MacBook Pro, and are already included in the extended keyboard repair warranty.
- The new keyboard will likely debut in the 16-inch MacBook Pro.
Apple brings True Tone to MacBook Air, faster chips to MacBook Pro
- Apple has updated the MacBook Air and 13-inch MacBook Pro for the back-to-school season. And they’re now more affordable.
- The revised MacBook Air, now starts at $1,099 (down from $1,199) or $999 for college students, and has been updated with True Tone.
- The biggest improvements, however, are to the 13-inch MacBook Pro.
Apple officially ditches the 12-inch MacBook
- Apple has dropped the 12-inch MacBook after introducing an improved MacBook Air and 13-inch MacBook Pro.
- The previous MacBook Air without a Retina display, which was Apple’s most affordable notebook, has also been ditched.
