Apple released the new 2011 MacBook Air on Wednesday. As usual with any new hardware release from Apple, the guys over at iFixit had their screwdrivers ready to take it apart.
This time it is the turn of the new 2011 MacBook Air, and in the photos below we get to see the inside of the new MacBook Air. The iFixit team discovered that the MacBook Air SSD isn’t soldered to the logic board, which means it should be pretty easy to upgrade the SSD in the MacBook Air.
With the release of these newly-updated MacBook Airs, people have been asking us what Apple updated under the hood. The answer? More than is evident at first glance. The new MacBook Air is visually very similar to the last revision, but it includes substantial improvements to the chipset and IO controllers.
Key Improvements in the 2011 MacBook Air
The 2011 MacBook Air may look similar to its predecessor on the outside, but it boasts several significant upgrades. One of the most notable changes is the inclusion of Intel’s Sandy Bridge processors, which offer improved performance and energy efficiency. This upgrade ensures that the MacBook Air can handle more demanding tasks while maintaining its reputation for excellent battery life.
Additionally, the new MacBook Air features Thunderbolt I/O technology. Thunderbolt provides incredibly fast data transfer speeds, up to 10 Gbps, which is a significant improvement over the previous USB 2.0 ports. This makes it easier to connect high-speed external devices, such as storage drives and displays, enhancing the overall user experience.
Upgradability and Repairability
One of the standout findings from the iFixit teardown is the upgradability of the SSD. Unlike many other Apple products, the SSD in the 2011 MacBook Air is not soldered to the logic board. This means that users can easily upgrade their storage capacity if needed. This is a welcome change for those who require more storage space for their files, applications, and media.
Moreover, the teardown revealed that the MacBook Air’s design is relatively modular, making it easier to replace certain components. For example, the battery is secured with screws rather than adhesive, simplifying the replacement process. This design choice aligns with Apple’s commitment to making their products more environmentally friendly by extending their lifespan through easier repairs and upgrades.
Head on over to iFixit for lots more details and photos of the new 2011 MacBook Air being taken apart.
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