Apple to Release MacBook Air Featuring MagSafe Charging and New Design

Apple is reportedly developing a new MacBook Air with the return of MagSafe charging in mind. The new device will also have a lighter and thinner design, compared to the current models.

As reported by Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman, Apple is working to develop the newly designed MacBook Air with the intention of releasing the device in the second half of 2021 or in 2022. The refreshed MacBook Air is said to be the 13-inch model and will now feature the MagSafe charger, which was replaced by USB-C charging in 2015. Additionally, the MacBook Air is said to have two USB 4 ports integrated for connecting external devices as well as feature the next generation of Apple’s M1 processor.

Gurman’s sources have indicated that Apple is developing the MacBook Air refresh to make the device lighter and thinner. Apple has considered making the device’s overall size smaller but maintains the 13-inch screen size by reducing the border and bezels around the display. A 15-inch model was also in consideration but was ultimately scrapped by the company.

News of this comes only a week after Bloomberg reported that Apple’s new MacBook Pro would also see the return of the MagSafe charger. It’s been reported that a 14-inch and 16-inch model are both in development and will feature some heavy redesigns including the removal of the Touch Bar. Bloomberg’s previous report also noted that the MagSafe charger will retain its previous pill-shape design.

Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has also noted that the new MacBook Pro models will receive a substantial redesign. According to his research notes, the MacBook Pro will take on design properties close to the iPhone 12, with flat edges rather than the curved design seen on contemporary models.