MacBook Air was announced today.
This description I don’t like so much: “MacBook Air sets new standards for ultra-portable computing ÇƒÓ without the usual ultra-portable compromises.” Instead of the usual compromises, it’s got an unusual compromise—there’s no CD/DVD drive, but it can use a drive from another computer across the wireless network. It’s being touted as a new idea, but some people are quick to point out that it’s basically a shared network drive. I don’t think it’s a bad idea, I rarely use my optical drives. But it could definitely be annoying in the same way that it’s annoying when I need a floppy drive, except more often.
It’s slightly underpowered. Even upgraded to 1.8Ghz, it’s got the slowest available processor of all Macs (yes, even the Mini). I wouldn’t go as far as calling it slow though, I’m sure it’s more than adequate for OSX and any included software. A MacBook starts at $700 cheaper, and a MacBook Pro starts at only $200 more. Both are faster and it’s not like they’re huge to begin with (the MacBook is 0.32″ thicker). However, it comes with 2GB RAM standard, which is nice. The option for the solid-state drive is great, since it’s pretty much the future. Though more than a few people will notice the +$999 upgrade price.
All in all, it’s the result of amazing engineering, it’s a lot to pay for form-factor and less power, and it’s going to sell like crazy.
