The 2021 MacBook Air is shaping up to be Apple's thinnest and lightest laptop yet, with reports pointing to a slimmer chassis, the M1 processor and the return of MagSafe charging. According to the company, the redesigned notebook is expected to land in the second half of the year. Here is what the early reports say is coming.
What the 2021 MacBook Air brings
The headline change is the design. The new model is said to weigh 1.29 kg with a thickness of around 0.63-inch, making it noticeably more portable than before. It runs on the M1 processor.
It is also expected to feature a 13-inch screen wrapped in thin bezels. Reports suggest the laptop will be built to last, letting owners keep and upgrade it for many years. This is part of why coverage from Apple watchers has been so heavy.
Display options
One report states the MacBook Air could be offered in a screen size up to 15-inch. The panel is described as an LED-backlit display using IPS technology.
2021 MacBook Air features and ports
The clearest upgrade is charging. The 2021 model is expected to bring back MagSafe charging, replacing the USB Type-C charging that Apple provided on the 2018 model.
- Return of MagSafe charging
- Two USB 4.0 ports
- SD card slot, useful for video editors
- 13-inch screen with thin bezels (up to 15-inch reported)
The SD card slot is a welcome comeback for creators. Apple last offered SD card slots on the 2016 model of the MacBook Pro. One report also notes this could be the most expensive MacBook.
What is missing
Not every feature made the cut. Reports say cellular connectivity and Face ID will not be available on the new MacBook, with Apple said to need more work before it can deliver Face ID on the laptop.
Key specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Weight | 1.29 kg |
| Thickness | 0.63-inch |
| Processor | M1 |
| Screen | 13-inch (up to 15-inch reported), LED-backlit IPS |
| Charging | MagSafe |
| Ports | Two USB 4.0, SD card slot |
What is the MagSafe Duo Charger?
MagSafe is a feature introduced with the iPhone 12 series. Older 29-watt USB-C power adapters do not work with the MagSafe Duo, which does not support 5B/3A or 9V/1.67A power ratings. When the MagSafe Duo is connected to the 29-watt adapter, it can charge only one of the two devices, either the iPhone 12 or the Apple Watch.
