The Apple MacBook Air (M1) which Apple introduced in December 2020 brought a fundamental change to laptop computing. Apple became an independent chip maker by using its first self-designed M1 chip which uses ARM architecture instead of Intel processors. The system delivered significant benefits through its performance capabilities and battery runtime of about 18 hours and its ability to run without fans all contained within a portable weight of less than 1 kilogram. The M1 Air achieved its status as a leading ultraportable laptop because users and reviewers evaluated it positively for its ability to transform standard laptop functions into something new.
Apple’s Silicon Evolution Pushes Forward
Apple develops its custom silicon chips through an ongoing process because each new chip generation must deliver better power consumption and processing speed than the previous model. Apple released the M2 MacBook Air which features a new body design after launching the M1 chip, followed by the M3 models which provide better performance and new features and advanced capabilities. Apple started to revise its product lineup when new models became available to showcase the latest hardware and essential features and extended software support capabilities which newer silicon technology delivers.
Official Discontinuation of the M1 Model
Apple ended production of the M1 MacBook Air on March 4 2024 as part of its regular product update process. The product has been removed from the Apple online store because it is no longer available as a fresh product. Apple removed M1 from its product lineup to allow M3 MacBook Air models to start selling which represents the company’s standard procedure for launching major new hardware products.
The change does not result in all M1 Airs disappearing because Apple simply stopped making direct sales of new devices. The market maintains stock availability of older units which continue to be sold through retailers and third-party sellers and refurbishers.
Why Apple Phased It Out
Apple has a few clear reasons for removing the M1 Air from its active lineup:
Product line confusion occurs when Apple sells multiple devices that share identical names because it creates difficulties for customers trying to choose between different product generations. Newer chips such as M2 and M3 provide superior processing power and graphics capabilities to meet current software requirements.
New hardware platforms receive extended support for upcoming macOS versions and future operating system features. The operational lifespan of silicon parts ends when their update cycle breaks which leads to multiple systems entering end-of-life mode.
Still a Great Option in the Secondary Market
The M1 Air remains functional despite Apple deciding to stop selling the product from its official store. The device maintains value for users because it handles basic tasks such as web browsing document work and streaming while delivering battery efficiency and performance that matches contemporary devices.
The M1 Air remains available through secondary marketplaces and retailers who still have unsold stock. The Apple ecosystem provides customers a budget-friendly entry point through refurbished units which they can buy from Apple or its certified partners.
The tech industry operates at a fast pace which causes even important products to become outdated and drop out of use. The M1 MacBook Air received a replacement which allowed newer laptops to emerge based on the legacy that the M1 established.
Read Also: How to Build or Buy a PC During the Worsening RAM Shortage Without Overspending
News Source: techradar.com
