On Monday, Apple announced their new MacBook Air 2013, and the guys over at iFixit have already managed to take the device apart to find out what changes have been made inside the latest generation MacBook Air.
The most striking thing about the updated 13″ Air is the lack of major internal revisions. In fact, the newest Air generation is almost identical to the previous one, save for a handful of minor changes: a smaller SSD module, an updated AirPort card, a Samsung flash controller, and a new heat sink clamp.
Internal Changes and Upgrades
The teardown by iFixit reveals that while the external design of the MacBook Air 2013 remains sleek and familiar, the internal components have seen some noteworthy updates. The smaller SSD module is particularly interesting as it suggests a move towards more compact and efficient storage solutions. This could potentially lead to faster data access speeds and improved overall performance.
The updated AirPort card is another significant change. This new card supports the latest Wi-Fi standards, which means users can expect better wireless connectivity and faster internet speeds. This is particularly beneficial for those who rely heavily on cloud services and online applications.
The inclusion of a Samsung flash controller is a strategic move by Apple. Samsung is known for its high-quality flash storage solutions, and this controller is likely to enhance the reliability and speed of the SSD. The new heat sink clamp, although a minor change, indicates Apple’s ongoing efforts to improve thermal management within the device. Better heat dissipation can lead to longer-lasting components and a more stable performance under heavy workloads.
Repairability and User Experience
You can see lots more photos of the MacBook Air 2013 teardown over at iFixit, and as with the previous model, this new MacBook Air is not one of the easiest devices to repair and only scored 4 out of 10 on iFixit’s scale. This low score is primarily due to the use of proprietary screws and the difficulty in accessing certain components without specialized tools.
For example, the battery is glued in place, making it challenging to replace. This could be a significant drawback for users who prefer to perform their own repairs or upgrades. However, it’s worth noting that Apple’s design philosophy often prioritizes a slim and lightweight form factor, which can sometimes come at the expense of repairability.
Despite these challenges, the MacBook Air 2013 continues to be a popular choice among consumers. Its combination of portability, performance, and build quality makes it an attractive option for students, professionals, and casual users alike. The minor internal upgrades, while not groundbreaking, contribute to a more refined and capable device.
Source iFixit
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