Summary created by Smart Answers AI
In summary:
- Macworld reports that Walmart has stopped selling M1 MacBook Air units, with most models out of stock, suggesting that Apple is phasing out the current budget laptop.
- This stock-out is in line with rumors of a new cheaper MacBook with the A18 Pro chip, priced around $699, to be released soon.
- The timing coincides with Apple’s worldwide events on March 4, potentially signaling an early release of this supposedly affordable MacBook model.
Apple’s long-rumored low-cost MacBook appears to be one step closer to launch after it was revealed that Walmart has stopped selling new units of the low-cost M1 MacBook Air.
As first reported by PC Mag, a search for the late 2020 machine on the US site with the “new” filter checked brings up three purchase options: 256GB in space gray or gold, and a listing of a 512GB model that won’t be available from 2024. All three now show as sold out for shipping, and the reporter was only able to find one store in his local area for pickup. I had a similar experience.
David Price / Foundry
(As a side note, I haven’t been able to find new M1 Air units at any other stores near me, including Amazon. If you look at the price comparison chart below, you’ll see if there are any in your location. If the chart doesn’t show up at all, you’re also out of luck.)
It’s unclear how long Walmart has had the machine in stock, but we do know it was on sale for a bargain price of $549 as recently as mid-December. Since Walmart is unlikely to accidentally run out of stock after two years, it seems that Apple and Walmart have decided to end sales.
While the decision could be related to cost-cutting measures due to rising memory prices, the timing lends credence to rumors of a low-cost MacBook expected in the next two weeks. Apple recently announced a global “experience” on March 4th, and it’s widely rumored to announce a number of new items in its iPhone, iPad, and MacBook lineups in the coming days. Rumors about the new MacBook claim it will use the A18 Pro iPhone chip and cost around $699, both reasons to stop selling those M1 models.
Whatever the truth is, we should know soon enough. Keep up with all the latest news and rumors with our regularly updated MacBook Super Guide.