Something thinner on the way?Increased competition
A lot has changed in the past two-and-a-half years and competition in the ultrathin sector has grown significantly. Manufacturers like MSI, ASUS and Lenovo all now offer their own high-end laptops that can match or beat the original MacBook Air’s dimensions and specs. Given that Intel is also starting to ship ultra-low voltage processors based on its Core 2010 range, it seems like the perfect time for Apple to update its thinnest notebook.
The rumour suggests that the new laptop will feature an 11.6in screen, down from the 13.3in screen on the current model. This would also make the new Air the smallest laptop, in terms of screen size, that Apple makes. A Core 2010 ULV processor is also expected to be included, though the rumour doesn’t mention which model the notebook might use. The only other titbit that the source gives away is that the laptop will be thinner and lighter than the current design. Given that all of the components – including the battery - will now be squeezed into a much smaller chassis, we’ll be thoroughly impressed if Apple manages to pull this off. The 13.3in model is just 19.4mm at the thickest point.
We think that it’s about time that Apple got around to updating its ultrathin laptop. Perhaps more importantly though, the original was a technology showcase and was the first Mac to feature the now-common unibody aluminium chassis. We’re sure that whatever new technology is used to make this new Air so small will eventually filter down into the design of the company’s other products.
