New Air speculation...next month?

[Scottsdale]

I have been using my new ThinkPad and haven't touched my MBA since the ThinkPad arrived a few days ago. This thing isn't nearly as pretty to look at (design & materials) as the sexy aluminum tapered MBA but it's shear perfection for typing and the display is stunning. I really wish Apple could use a higher resolution display like a 1440x900 in the 13" MBA.

The downfall is also an amazing positive. It doesn't run OS X... but that means it runs Windows 7 amazingly, and it doesn't need the performance and power to just run one OS. I expect so much from the MBA because I want it to do EVERYTHING which includes OS X and Windows 7. If we don't need to run OS X, lesser GPUs are perfectly fine for Windows... 4 GB RAM is plenty with Windows 7, and I wouldn't even waste the money for 8 GB if I could. The 1.4 GHz CPU is perfectly fine for Windows, and the Intel IGP is fine for Windows too. OS X needs so much more graphics performance for the same level of performance... really Apple's fault I suppose.

The ThinkPad only has 4 GB RAM, and it only has a 128 GB SSD, but that's all I need since it's JUST Windows 7 going on it. I think we all expect so much more from Apple and the MBA because we "need" to run both OS X and Windows 7 and that adds to the requirements, and about doubles them in our minds.

One thing I really think people are messed up in logic with is the 11" display. If Apple can make the MBA an inch narrower and 3/4" smaller the other way, and still use a 13" display, wouldn't that be hugely preferred? I think an 11" MBA would be even smaller than that, and that detracts from the experience.

Assuming we get multiple MBA choices, and assuming they're more powerful like I imagine they will be, I will buy one day one. However, I don't know if I will LOVE it if it doesn't meet ALL of my requirements. It has been left out of the picture for Apple for so long that it truly needs a complete overhaul...

MUST HAVE -

13" IPS Display OR at least 1440x900 resolution if not IPS (I am almost guaranteeing an IPS display though - I have been calling a new display tech in the MBA first for almost a year now and it's time for it)

NOT be heavier than 3 lb.

4 GB RAM Minimum and an option to 8 GB seems obvious

Glass Trackpad

Reduced bezel not wasting space... and reduce wasted space around keyboard. Could almost get a 15" display in the current 13" MBA case... and that's why a 15" MBA makes a world of sense... more so than an 11" MBA for sure.

160 GB Intel SSD Option or a 256 GB Toshiba SSD... I would bet money on the Toshiba 256 GB SSD, but I don't know if it will be standard in the high-end MBA or if it will be a BTO option. I would actually go with the Intel 160 GB SSD over the 256 GB SSD for performance gains, but that probably wouldn't happen - aka, I am dreaming.

It MUST HAVE a discrete GPU if it goes with Arrandale/Sandy Bridge CPU beyond C2D. This is an absolute must even if Apple waits for Sandy Bridge. I would put a bunch of money on the ATI 5430... as it allows Apple to use the 5430, 5450, and 5470 across the future three Mac notebooks. I see the 13" Pro maybe getting the 5470 and the MB getting the 5450. However, this would allow ONE driver set and reduce implementation, and future software costs by going with this one series that uses same software, drivers, OpenCL, OpenGL, and etc... The 5430 equals 7W of TDP which is no problem in a 13" MBA, along with a Core i7 LOW VOLTAGE CPU with the Intel IGP turned OFF.

I would be devastated if it only had 2 GB RAM capability, only had a ULV CPU, and only had Intel's IGP as a graphics non-solution.

What else do all of you think it must have? What would you be devastated about?

I am convinced it's coming out before the end of 2010... what do all of you think? Mid September makes a lot of sense for new iPods, new iTV, new iPad 7", and new MBAs.

 

[tbone14]

If/when the MBA gets updated, there's another important question.

Will there be:
A. a special event dedicated to the new MBA
B. "and one more thing" at the end of a keynote
C. an update via the Apple online store without any pomp and circumstance

We need to try emailing John Gruber. Maybe one of his inside contacts can give him a scoop!

 

[soph]

Will there be:
A. a special event dedicated to the new MBA
B. "and one more thing" at the end of a keynote
C. an update via the Apple online store without any pomp and circumstance

C. gets a "nope" from me.
B. could happen, but I have troubles imagining the MBA announcement as "one more thing" of an iPod keynote (but my imagination doesn't say much )
A. seems most likely to me, but then not in September

 

[entatlrg]

I have been using my new ThinkPad and haven't touched my MBA since the ThinkPad arrived a few days ago. This thing isn't nearly as pretty to look at (design & materials) as the sexy aluminum tapered MBA but it's shear perfection for typing and the display is stunning. I really wish Apple could use a higher resolution display like a 1440x900 in the 13" MBA.

The downfall is also an amazing positive. It doesn't run OS X... but that means it runs Windows 7 amazingly, and it doesn't need the performance and power to just run one OS. I expect so much from the MBA because I want it to do EVERYTHING which includes OS X and Windows 7. If we don't need to run OS X, lesser GPUs are perfectly fine for Windows... 4 GB RAM is plenty with Windows 7, and I wouldn't even waste the money for 8 GB if I could. The 1.4 GHz CPU is perfectly fine for Windows, and the Intel IGP is fine for Windows too. OS X needs so much more graphics performance for the same level of performance... really Apple's fault I suppose.

The ThinkPad only has 4 GB RAM, and it only has a 128 GB SSD, but that's all I need since it's JUST Windows 7 going on it. I think we all expect so much more from Apple and the MBA because we "need" to run both OS X and Windows 7 and that adds to the requirements, and about doubles them in our minds.

One thing I really think people are messed up in logic with is the 11" display. If Apple can make the MBA an inch narrower and 3/4" smaller the other way, and still use a 13" display, wouldn't that be hugely preferred? I think an 11" MBA would be even smaller than that, and that detracts from the experience.

Assuming we get multiple MBA choices, and assuming they're more powerful like I imagine they will be, I will buy one day one. However, I don't know if I will LOVE it if it doesn't meet ALL of my requirements. It has been left out of the picture for Apple for so long that it truly needs a complete overhaul...

MUST HAVE -

13" IPS Display OR at least 1440x900 resolution if not IPS (I am almost guaranteeing an IPS display though - I have been calling a new display tech in the MBA first for almost a year now and it's time for it)

NOT be heavier than 3 lb.

4 GB RAM Minimum and an option to 8 GB seems obvious

Glass Trackpad

Reduced bezel not wasting space... and reduce wasted space around keyboard. Could almost get a 15" display in the current 13" MBA case... and that's why a 15" MBA makes a world of sense... more so than an 11" MBA for sure.

160 GB Intel SSD Option or a 256 GB Toshiba SSD... I would bet money on the Toshiba 256 GB SSD, but I don't know if it will be standard in the high-end MBA or if it will be a BTO option. I would actually go with the Intel 160 GB SSD over the 256 GB SSD for performance gains, but that probably wouldn't happen - aka, I am dreaming.

It MUST HAVE a discrete GPU if it goes with Arrandale/Sandy Bridge CPU beyond C2D. This is an absolute must even if Apple waits for Sandy Bridge. I would put a bunch of money on the ATI 5430... as it allows Apple to use the 5430, 5450, and 5470 across the future three Mac notebooks. I see the 13" Pro maybe getting the 5470 and the MB getting the 5450. However, this would allow ONE driver set and reduce implementation, and future software costs by going with this one series that uses same software, drivers, OpenCL, OpenGL, and etc... The 5430 equals 7W of TDP which is no problem in a 13" MBA, along with a Core i7 LOW VOLTAGE CPU with the Intel IGP turned OFF.

I would be devastated if it only had 2 GB RAM capability, only had a ULV CPU, and only had Intel's IGP as a graphics non-solution.

What else do all of you think it must have? What would you be devastated about?

I am convinced it's coming out before the end of 2010... what do all of you think? Mid September makes a lot of sense for new iPods, new iTV, new iPad 7", and new MBAs.

Scottsdale
Could you please give a brief review on what you think of the x301's screen, you mentioned "stunning" ... how's the viewing angles, clarity, AG film etc?

I cannot find a review anywhere on the 'net that says anything but the x301/x201 displays are crap. In my personal experience my x301's display was very poor, especially compared to the MBA or 13" MBP, that's why I sold it.

Now you've got one and you say it's stunning, I wonder why the difference in opinions, maybe you've got a newer display, a 'good' LG or Samsung panel?

Did you order direct from Lenovo?

Thanks.

 

[gwsat]

I would be devastated if it only had 2 GB RAM capability, only had a ULV CPU, and only had Intel's IGP as a graphics non-solution.

What else do all of you think it must have? What would you be devastated about?

I am convinced it's coming out before the end of 2010... what do all of you think? Mid September makes a lot of sense for new iPods, new iTV, new iPad 7", and new MBAs.

I agree that an upgrade of the MBA that left it with only 2Gb of non expandable RAM would be a sickening development. I think the chances that it will play out that way are remote, though. It seems to me that Apple's failing to increase the RAM in the MBA woud be tantamount to telling us they had given up on the MBA as anything like a flagship product. If that's what Apple thinks, it seems that a more sensible course for them would be to simply let the MBA die.

 

[Moodikar]

What would be devastating...

Scottsdale, good post.

I still wonder if September will focus mainly on Music, as in iPods. Believe this was the trend in the past. However next month would be good for the Air as people grind back to work.

Still, October might be more likely for the new Macbook Air offering. However, it also lends us to wonder what will be updated for Christmas. We've had practically everything updated by July and think usually it's been about 8 months between refresh. Doubt the Air is a hot Christmas purchase item (meaning November and December would be out). Don't get me started if we have to wait till January!!!

If the Air doesn't come out soon with anything but another speed bump, I wonder what Apple is waiting for and if they truly have a successor to the current form factor/design. Is the Air done?

I think I would be devastated with simply another speed-bump. Even if Apple is holding out for newer/better technology, they probably should offer another price drop to match spec versus value and drain their stock.

This might buy them time but for us enthusiasts, I can see that the extended wait has taken an exhaustive toll. A new form factor and/or overhaul is needed to save the name and brand of the prestigious ultra-thin/portable prototype Air. Release something innovative again (not 2.5 year old technology) that makes the cost worth the specs and portable brand. Anything less and I doubt most of us would upgrade...

 

[Moodikar]

My perfect specs...

By the way, here's what I'd like to see:

- 11.6inch monitor (insanely great resolution) or 16:9 screen of similar size.
- less bezel (tapered to full size keyboard like the old Duos or Pb12inch)
- 3 lbs max and same thickness
- Less of a clam shape if possible and more flat
- Maybe a docking unit (meaning one connector on Air to a box with USB, MiniDP, DVD, memory, etc) like the old Duo days.
- 2nd USB input (having one isn't enough with such a small internal HD. Can't burn videos if the files are too big to store on the internal).
- Glass trackpad (no more button scratching the top lid).
- 256 or more SSD drive
- 4-8gb of ram (yes 8 might be pushing but why not if they can put it in).
- better video card (don't know. I'll let them figure it out).
- 10 - 12 hour battery

DREAM ITEMS:
- USB 3 (no more USB 2)
- 3G
- Touch (and iOS app)
- GPS
- 10 inch screen (I know, most of you are against this idea).
- An impressive new way to cool the machine.
- New Wireless external hard drive (as an accessory) or a wireless USB port to connect any usb device and be recognized by the AIR (yes, now I'm dreaming).

 

[Jayomat]

I have been using my new ThinkPad and haven't touched my MBA since the ThinkPad arrived a few days ago. This thing isn't nearly as pretty to look at (design & materials) as the sexy aluminum tapered MBA but it's shear perfection for typing and the display is stunning. I really wish Apple could use a higher resolution display like a 1440x900 in the 13" MBA.

If I remember correctly, we were talking about the Thinkpad displays in another thread. And if I continue to remember correctly, wasn't it you (Scottsdale) and some other guy who said the Thinkpad display are crap?

 

[voicegy]

I would be devastated if it only had 2 GB RAM capability, only had a ULV CPU, and only had Intel's IGP as a graphics non-solution.

What else do all of you think it must have? What would you be devastated about?

I am convinced it's coming out before the end of 2010... what do all of you think? Mid September makes a lot of sense for new iPods, new iTV, new iPad 7", and new MBAs.

I'm convinced it's coming before the end of the year.

I, like others here, have been waiting and hoping for a makeover and will jump on it day one, BUT...

I, too, would be devastated if it did not come with at least 4 GIG RAM. If it does, I'm done.

 

[Scottsdale]

If I remember correctly, we were talking about the Thinkpad displays in another thread. And if I continue to remember correctly, wasn't it you (Scottsdale) and some other guy who said the Thinkpad display are crap?

I don't think I said that...??? Not anytime recently that I am aware of... but there are late nights I suppose.

I have always been pretty disappointed with Lenovo's displays until now. This display is an LED backlit that is 1440 x 900. I would say it's stunning compared to the older ThinkPad displays in two ways. It's LED backlit and much higher quality in terms of viewing angle, and it's 1440 x 900 which is SO AWESOME compared to the MBA and every other 13" Mac notebook displays.

The brightness and clarity itself seems about similar to the MBA other than it's much better resolution. I am impressed. I don't know what the brand of the display is, but it's better than most other displays I have seen. If the 13" Mac displays were 1440 x 900, they might be a little better. Now, it's no IPS display, but having the desktop space of a 15" MBP on a 13" notebook is how it should be.

10/12 hour battery in the MBA. NOT going to happen. If anyone thinks the MBA should have this, they should look into the weight and space requirements of a battery that yields 10/12 hours with the MBA's components. Maybe 8 hours IF it's only an 11" MBA with a Core i5/i7 ULV CPU with SOLE USE of Intel's WORTHLESS IGP offering. AND even then, Apple would have to ADD WEIGHT to the 3 lb. to make that happen! I don't want ANY part of it. People need to understand why the MBP isn't thinner and lightweight, and it's because it has a 10-hour battery in it... cannot have 10-hour battery and 3 lb laptop unless we are willing to give up power performance and display size to do it.

I want a solid 5-hour battery in a more powerful MBA that uses a far less tapered design. Call me crazy for thinking that would be AMAZING with a Core i7-6x0LM, ATI 5430, 4/8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, and 13" IPS display.

 

[kixx]

A Question:

Why do people care about the amount of RAM so much, some people even want options for 8G of ram when the CPU will only probably be a low end duo core.

I have been using 2G of ddr2 800 RAM for my PC and it runs windows 7 perfectly. My gaming PC has 6G of ddr3 1600 RAM and the most i hit is no more than 4G playing games and opening every other single application i have.

So i think 2G of RAM would definitely be plenty for the use of MBA, i rather save the money of the other 2G.

 

[Pyrran]

3/4g?

Any thoughts on Apple including built-in 3G or 4G connectivity for one or more standards?

 

[Jayomat]

A Question:

Why do people care about the amount of RAM so much, some people even want options for 8G of ram when the CPU will only probably be a low end duo core.

I have been using 2G of ddr2 800 RAM for my PC and it runs windows 7 perfectly. My gaming PC has 6G of ddr3 1600 RAM and the most i hit is no more than 4G playing games and opening every other single application i have.

So i think 2G of RAM would definitely be plenty for the use of MBA, i rather save the money of the other 2G.

If you want to run windows (or any another OS) via parallels/VMfusio etc. you definitely need more than 2GB of RAM, if you care about performance.

I agree, the main problem with the Lenovo ultraportables is the display. Next to the MBA, the Lenovo's display is obviously junk. It is difficult, because every other feature in the Lenovo ultraportables is PERFECTION. I do like their keyboards more... but the MBA's keyboard is better than every other laptop I have tried (including MBP, MB - for some reason the response, feel, and etc is better on the MBA)[...].

(Taken from the "What about me?" thread)

@Scottsdale: However you are right, as you didn't call it crap

 

[Hexero]

Apple Store is down. New updates?

 

[ozreth]

Well its not a Tuesday so I doubt it, but my fingers are crossed : )

 

[PsyD4Me]

Personally I think that the current MBA is toast, and no i don't need a glass trackpad, it feels weird on my wife's MBP. I like the traction of the MBA's pad.

I also think that the previous update of the 13" MBP was superficial, because Apple was planning on phasing out the MBA and doing some sort of a new 11" and 13" MBP/MBA hybrid line. This is why they didn't dump too much R&D money into it. Maybe it will have a new name: Air Pro, i don't know...but it's been too long for a plane Jane 4gb/SSD/processor update

Just speculating....

 

[hitekalex]

App Store has been down for the last hour or so.. maybe? just maybe??

 

[coffeemoney]

serious? why i still can enter the apple store?

Edit : my bad its really off..

 

[Scottsdale]

If you want to run windows (or any another OS) via parallels/VMfusio etc. you definitely need more than 2GB of RAM, if you care about performance.




@Scottsdale: However you are right, as you didn't call it crap

Nice find. I did generally think that Lenovo displays weren't really very nice especially in comparison to Apple's, but let's face it neither are high-end or IPS panels.

In the end, the newest Lenovo's are actually on par with Apple's or at least very close... BUT, the Lenovo on my X301 is much better in my mind because it's 1440x900. Nobody will take Apple's displays as very serious until they can at a minimum get us to 1440x900 on ALL 13" displays. If people want to "downgrade" them to x800, they can... EVERYONE would be happy and could benefit if they wanted to.

For me, it's about getting more desktop space in the same 13" display. I wish Apple would do that with the next MBA... until then, I will be toting my Lenovo ThinkPad x301 and happy with 1440x900. Maybe the Apple is slightly better, but this display is definitely not JUNK. It isn't an IPS high-end panel, but it's better than all ThinkPad displays I have ever seen before. If it were junk, I would have no problem calling it junk, as it doesn't matter because I own it.

One thing that I will say, is this Lenovo doesn't have the cool industrial appearance and feel of the MBAs. It's rather BORING to look at, but it's shear perfection at typing. I do miss the MBA's trackpad also. I don't miss having only one USB port, and all around the Lenovo is a better business laptop or for a writer... just my thoughts. I RARELY mistype with this keyboard, and I would say my efficiency and error rate have improved. I am screwed up on the delete key though, lol.

 

[voicegy]

A Question:

Why do people care about the amount of RAM so much, some people even want options for 8G of ram when the CPU will only probably be a low end duo core.

As stated elsewhere, I, too, want to run Windows within a Parallels environment.

 

[Jayomat]

Nice find. I did generally think that Lenovo displays weren't really very nice especially in comparison to Apple's, but let's face it neither are high-end or IPS panels.

In the end, the newest Lenovo's are actually on par with Apple's or at least very close... BUT, the Lenovo on my X301 is much better in my mind because it's 1440x900. Nobody will take Apple's displays as very serious until they can at a minimum get us to 1440x900 on ALL 13" displays. If people want to "downgrade" them to x800, they can... EVERYONE would be happy and could benefit if they wanted to.

For me, it's about getting more desktop space in the same 13" display. I wish Apple would do that with the next MBA... until then, I will be toting my Lenovo ThinkPad x301 and happy with 1440x900. Maybe the Apple is slightly better, but this display is definitely not JUNK. It isn't an IPS high-end panel, but it's better than all ThinkPad displays I have ever seen before. If it were junk, I would have no problem calling it junk, as it doesn't matter because I own it.

One thing that I will say, is this Lenovo doesn't have the cool industrial appearance and feel of the MBAs. It's rather BORING to look at, but it's shear perfection at typing. I do miss the MBA's trackpad also. I don't miss having only one USB port, and all around the Lenovo is a better business laptop or for a writer... just my thoughts. I RARELY mistype with this keyboard, and I would say my efficiency and error rate have improved. I am screwed up on the delete key though, lol.

I really want to see an increased resolution too. I don't want a 15" machine, just to get a higher resolution (or matte screen). I want a lightweight and portable, yet fairly powerful laptop that runs OSX with 1440x900.. I can do the heavy lifting and gaming on a 800€ PC just fine..

On a side note, I really tried to like Win7 or one of the many linux distros.. But it just doesn't work. Too many little things that bug me. That's why, although I love the Thinkpad X series (as I already stated in another thread), I cannot buy a non OSX laptop. I'm trapped, and although there are sooo many things I dislike about apple in general, they get the things right that count, at least to me..

In the end, I don't see apple providing a higher resolution display nor a matte finish in any of their 13" laptops anytime soon. There is just no significant demand, at least that's what the guys at cupertino think. And to be honest, I don't think the demand for a higher resolution display in the 13" line is high enough either... but I would be pleased to be proven incorrect

 

[Gruber]

A Question:
Why do people care about the amount of RAM so much, some people even want options for 8G of ram when the CPU will only probably be a low end duo core.

The C2D is still ok for most applications (except gaming, of course). If you keep many applications open, more RAM gives you more performance than a faster CPU.
I do not run Parallels, but I do a lot of programming and some memory-intense photoshopping. My stuff takes ages to compile with 2GB, and 4 is the bare minimum.

If you are mainly writing and websurfing, you will be absolutely fine with 2GB. I am not.

 

[Scottsdale]

The C2D is still ok for most applications (except gaming, of course). If you keep many applications open, more RAM gives you more performance than a faster CPU.
I do not run Parallels, but I do a lot of programming and some memory-intense photoshopping. My stuff takes ages to compile with 2GB, and 4 is the bare minimum.

If you are mainly writing and websurfing, you will be absolutely fine with 2GB. I am not.

Core 2 Duo is more than okay. I would by far rather Apple spend money making the rest of the system better and leaving the C2D CPU in ALL their Macs. Seriously, CPUs are all FINE. Computers could get much MUCH faster by focusing on drive controller and drive speeds, GPUs and Video RAM, RAM amount and RAM speed increases, all to start.

In addition, Apple should focus on taking advantage of all of the hardware and the technologies available. People want beyond C2D because Intel markets to us that the ONLY way to improve our computers is to get a new CPU. That is FAR from reality, but it's great marketing on Intel's behalf. I really believe the vast majority would benefit more from 32 GB NAND Flash on board for the OS and main apps. And then give us better GPU performance. Then take advantage of all of the software technologies implemented with Snow Leopard.

Apple is improving our MBAs quarterly with amazing updates to OpenCL, OpenGL, SSD drivers, and etc. The October 2008 MBA is stunningly fast with SSD and the Nvidia 9400m. I wish people would realize just how well Apple is doing and get the Intel crap out of their heads. Apple needs to have a serious talk/open memo discussing Intel's anti-competitive and BS with its CPUs, blocking out Nvidia, and integration into nearly every CPU of lackluster and WORTHLESS graphics. I just wish the people could understand this.

Don't get me wrong, I want a Core i7-6x0LM 25W CPU in my next MBA... but with Intel's bogus graphics, it's not such an easy move for Apple. It already seems obvious that Apple hates Intel's move, and the Nvidia integrated GPU/chipset is FAR BETTER by around 3x than Intel's worthless IGP. I want the Core i7, but Apple needs to disable the IGP and we all need to pray that Apple can get an ATI GPU in there that meets the TDP limits. The 7W 5430 meets the needs along with a Core i7-6x0LM with a disabled IGP. But, there's the cost vs. the Nvidia 320m and C2D.

I would BY FAR prefer a Core 2 Duo and Nvidia 320m to a Core i7-6x0LM with only Intel's IGP for graphics. The VAST MAJORITY of us would lose substantial capabilities if we're STUCK with Intel's POS IGP.

 

[mbisson]

As many others seem to be, I am (im)patiently waiting to see if Apple is going to update the MacBook Air and thought I would add my 2 pence on what I'd like to see and why, whilst adding some of my own speculation on the matter.

11.6" Screen - I travel a lot and space is very tight. The current MBA may be thinner than a 13" MBP but there is no difference in width and depth, both of which make a difference when packing a computer in the day sack. I could actually cope with the laptop being slightly thicker to compensate.

The 11.6" makes sense to me as it will still allow a full size keyboard and will bring the dimensions down nearer the old 12" G4. I know of several of these that are still in daily use and are likely to remain so until Apple brings out something truely similar or they die beyond economic repair.

Even then I have seen replacement of a dead 12" G4 by another this year and apparently they are maintaining a pretty healthy resale value.

SD Card slot - whilst not a huge burden to carry a small card reader to transfer pics from my camera, those that I have will not plug directly into the current MBA due to the placement of its sole USB port meaning I would also have to remember an extension cable as well as the card reader.

USB Ports - Whilst on that subject, how about one or two more of these, especially if the MBA still lacks a dedicated ethernet port, and better placed in terms of accessibility. If left with just a single port still I can see using the ethernet adapter whilst at a client site and then finding I need to plug in a USB stick/Superdrive/similar causing much frustration.

I expect many MBA owners already encounter this but also thinking about it my La Cie rugged HD requires 2 USB connections.

USB3 would definitely be nice to have as well though given other recent Mac updates have not brought this I doubt the MBA, if updated soon, would include this.

Glass Trackpad - I'm so used to these from using MBPs that it feels wrong on the MBA having a separate button. I'm fairly sure this would be a given on any upgrade though.

More RAM - 2GB is great if you just want to use email/web browsing/word processing however isn't the MBA aimed mainly at the business traveller who doesn't mind the extra cost that comes from having a machine that they can use for work whilst being smaller/lighter and therefore easier to carry around. Several people have mentioned the use of Parallels requiring at least 4GB but I've seen some huge (often unnecessarily) spreadsheets bring a 2GB mac to its knees.

Again I'd like to think that 4GB will be a given as it is now standard across the MBP line though the option to go up to 8GB would be nice. Especially if the option existed to upgrade later and extend the machines useful life.

CPU/GPU - If it were not for the current Intel/Nvida situation then we could probably say goodbye to the C2D. Whilst its likely that all we can hope for is faster C2Ds and a 320M GPU, as in the 13" MBP there seems to be an issue with even that. From my quick research on the matter the 2.13Ghz chip that the MBA uses is a SL9600 and per the following Intel page it is the fastest 17 Watt model that they produce - http://ark.intel.com/ProductCollection.aspx?familyId=26548. I assume using a higher wattage version will only add to the lap toasting ability of the MBA so unless Intel is again able to produce a custom chip for Apple this may be part of what is causing the delay in a MBA update.

256GB SSD - I currently use about 190GB on a 500GB disk. Whilst I can prune a little my laptop needs to often serve as my primary computer (Am currently on a 12m trip) and so there is only so much pruning I can do. Judjing by others comments an SSD makes a marked improvement to the MBAs overall performance and so it may make sense to make them standard to the MBA.

Price - I'd like to see prices in line with current pricing (No I'd actually like to see them lower) BUT I suspect they are actually more likely to go back up to the levels of the first MBAs. Why, well firstly the price drops that we have seen have been largely due to the fact that the upgrades that have been introduced have been relatively minor in nature. If the MBA receives more significant upgrades/a redesign then the price will probably have to go up so that Apple can maintain acceptable profit margins.

Secondly it again comes down to the fact that the MBA is aimed at people who are early adopters and are less likely to be concerned about the price. This has to be true for most MBA owners as if price were a real issue surely the 13" MBP would be purchased instead. Apple know that most of the people who bought a MBA when they first came out are likely to buy a new one if they are significantly upgraded which means they can sell it at a premium price and then drop it later.

Construction - The whole tapered/wedge thing really doesn't excite me that much. Sure it does have a bit of that wow factor but I'm sure it wears off after an hour or so when you get down to actually using the machine. At the time it was introduced the MBA allowed Apple to say "Hey look, we make the thinnest laptop about" Now though they have the iPad which everyone is talking about so having the thinnest laptop probably isn't as important to them. Not being an engineer I'm guessing a more rectangular shape, per the MBP, would probably be easier to produce if not being quite so thin and may help with space for cooling.

Now though comes my potentially leftfield piece of thinking for those of you still reading this. How about liquid metal. I know that almost everyone seems to be linking this to future iPhones given the iPhone 4s recent launch but given the MBA's ultraportable nature it seems to be a prime candidate for liquid metal's use.

I'm not sure if it was on this site but I saw someone else mention this and get shot down immediately, being told that it was too early as the licensing deal has only just been made. Hang on a second though, before I spent millions on something (Even if I had Apple's cash reserves) I would want to be sure it would do what I wanted. Therefore I am sure that Apple has been researching liquid metal use for a while now and are probably well on the way to being ready to use it for whatever they are planning, probably having experimented in using it in MacBook construction. Rumour has it they were working on the external iPhone antenna design up to two years ago and the SIM ejector tools may represent Apple's use of liquid metal for the past couple of years already so it may be a long-shot but it still may be a possibility.

 

[Wild-Bill]

I'd like to see more RAM, like 4 gigs standard like the rest of the laptops, and a no-kidding DEDICATED GPU on board. As for SSD, I'd just assume put one of my own choosing in there as Apple tends to use cheap, sub-par SSDs.

If they do that, I'll buy one and put my Rev C. MBA on Craigslist or Ebay.