Macbook Air 2016 release date, specs: rumors abound that Air series is being ditched

[photo: Commons Wikimedia/Kris Mendoza]

Those who are waiting for the release of a MacBook Air 2016 edition might be a little disappointed. This is after rumors claimed that Apple Inc. is not planning to come out with one anytime soon.

According to reports, the tech firm is currently focused on working on a new MacBook Pro 2016, which makes it a challenge for them to come out with a new version of the MacBook Air.

The speculations about the delay of MacBook Air 2016 is backed by the lack of any major upgrade in the MacBook Air product line during the last few years. The Cupertino-based tech giant only offered several minor improvements on their lightest and slimmest laptop since its launch in 2008.

In spring 2015, Apple released several under-the-hood improvements on the MacBook Air. They include the addition of the Intel Broadwell chipset, the Thunderbolt 2 display, as well as the high-definition graphics 6000.

Other rumors claimed that Apple Inc. is considering to scrap the MacBook Air product line completely, since a number of industry insiders believed that the ultraportable laptop is actually redundant.

On the other hand, those who are planning to purchase a new laptop soon could consider getting the new MacBook Pro. It will reportedly come out with a better graphics card that is ideal for gaming, as well as a better display screen.

The rumored new MacBook Pro is also expected to feature Intel Kaby Lake, the Thunderbolt 3 port, an ITB SSD and the USB-C port. It will also be lighter and slimmer compared to the current MacBook Pro as well as the MacBook Air. It could also come out with Apple's latest operating system called the Mac OS Sierra which will feature the introduction of Siri on laptop devices.

Apple Inc. is expected to unveil its latest products in the company's major event on Sept. 7.