Andrew Orr
A new rumor from a generally accurate leaker claims that Apple might be planning to bring back the 12-inch MacBook that was last updated in 2017 — although it might not appear until 2024.
A new rumor on the Korean blog platform Naver from leaker "yeux1122" claims Apple plans to refresh the product, according to a source from a supply chain parts company in Taiwan. Apple reportedly intends to announce whether mass production of the device will begin as early as the second half of this year.
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said in 2022 that he hadn't heard of any rumors about a 12-inch MacBook refresh. Display analyst Ross Young also mentioned his supply chain sources hadn't heard of any refresh plans.
However, previous rumors said in 2022 that Apple was working on a 12-inch MacBook refresh, alongside a rumored 15-inch MacBook Air. According to Young, who has a strong track record for display predictions, the larger device could be called a MacBook.
If the rumors are true, it might mean that Apple would end the MacBook Air moniker, instead offering a MacBook in two sizes. The 15-inch MacBook is rumored to launch in April 2023, while the possible 12-inch MacBook might not appear until 2024 or later.
The leaker that generated Wednesday's report has a mixed track record. They accurately predicted the launch of M2 MacBook Pro models in 2023, but missed the mark saying that the iPhone 14 Pro would have 8GB of RAM when it actually launched with 6GB.
William Gallagher
Christine McKee
AppleInsider Staff
Chip Loder
Malcolm Owen
13 Comments
I would be really surprised if Apple dropped the name "MacBook Air." It's a great name and it's been an incredibly successful product.
I would also be surprised if Apple dropped the 13" MBA and only had a 12" and a 15". While the 12" form factor might be appealing for people who want the smallest possible (while still being usable) MacBook, it seems niche to me.
I wonder if it would make more sense to keep the 13" MBA and add a smaller 11" MBA.
12” and 13.6” need to be Air
15.x” needs to be MacBook or MacBook Studio.
and, of course, 14” and 16” MBP’s.
I loved my 12 inch, still have it, still works ( has a bump due to battery)
With an m series processor and a decent keyboard would be fantastic. Even if they kept a single usb-c, but with a MagSafe as well.
For my mobile stuff I like them as small as possible. Still rocking my 11" MBA and my 12 mini.
At home, it's a 5K with an extra 4K monitor.
I would be very interested in a 12 inch rMB revival if it