Apple is rumored to be working on a 15-inch version of the MacBook Air — something many of its notebook users have long been asking for. But according to one analyst, the new machine may launch under a different name.
Ming-Chi Kuo of TF International Securities, who has reliably predicted Apple’s moves many times in the past, predicts mass production of a larger laptop will begin in late 2023, and that it “might not be called MacBook Air.”
15-inch MacBook Air may get a different name
MacBook Air is by far Apple’s most popular notebook. Its slim and lightweight design, coupled with a more affordable price tag (compared to MacBook Pro, at least), make it the number one choice for many mobile workers.
In the interests of portability, MacBook Air has only ever been available in smaller 11- and 13-inch sizes. But it seems Apple is finally preparing a larger display option for those who have long been calling for it.
It just may not be named MacBook Air.
New details on Apple’s next notebook emerge
Mass production of Apple’s new 15-inch notebook will begin during the fourth quarter of 2023 “if all goes to plan,” Kuo wrote in a tweet on Thursday. That suggests the machine won’t make its debut until later 2023 or early 2024.
“Although a larger display generally consumes more power, the design goal is to use the same 30W power adapter as MacBook Air,” Kuo added. But “it might not be called MacBook Air.”
Kuo doesn’t include any other details, so it’s unclear what name Cupertino could choose instead. It seems unlikely this will be another “Pro” machine given the power adapter specifications. Could it be just “MacBook” instead?
What to expect
Ross Young, CEO of Display Chain Consultants (DSCC), who first reported on a possible 15-inch MacBook Air — and who has also proven incredibly reliable in the past — was also light on details in his original predictions.
However, in a new tweet published Friday, Young said, “2023 Apple 15″ MacBook/Air will actually be 15.2″.” It seems he is also unsure of the machine’s name as things stand.
Young also said that the 2022 MacBook Air refresh will get a slight display size increase from 13.3 to 13.6 inches. It is not expected to use mini-LED technology like the newest MacBook Pro models, which isn’t at all surprising.
