Apple unveiled a new MacBook Air in midweek with the newly designed scissor-switch keyboard, improved internal specs, and a lower starting price point of $999/£999.
After revealing the details for its updated iPad Pro, Apple lifted the lid on its new laptop with a statement on its site and an accompanying video.
The MacBook Air 2020 will be powered by Intel’s 10th-generation processors, and there will be the option of either 8GB or 16GM of RAM memory in addition to a range of storage types, including the base 256GB up to a 2TB SSD.
The change to a scissor-switch mechanism for the keyboard will be appreciated by those who have struggled to warm to Apple’s butterfly-style offerings during the last four or so years.
There have been no improvements on the display side as the 13.3-inch model will still house a 2560×1600 LCD display, which still offers a respectable 227 PPI pixel density and Apple’s handy True Tone tech.
Connectivity is similar with two Thunderbolt 3 ports featuring alongside a Touch ID fingerprint reader, a headphone jack, and a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth controller.
Battery life is stated as 11 to 12 hours – this is in the same ballpark as the 12 hours offered for the previous model, which was refreshed last year.
It weighs just 1.3kg and is only 1.61cm thick, making it perfect for those who need a larger device on the go.
Fans may also be surprised to hear that the update comes with a cheaper price tag than the previous model.
The new laptop, which is available in either space grey, silver or gold aluminium, will go on sale early next week.
The device is available to order online now directly from Apple in the US and UK and will be in stores by the end of the month, though the coronavirus could delay those plans.