M1 MacBook Air Out of Stock at Walmart as Lower-Cost MacBook Nears
Source: MacRumors
Background
Apple introduced the MacBook Air with the M1 chip in November 2020, marking one of the first Macs to use Apple silicon instead of an Intel processor. The configuration sold by Walmart featured 256 GB of storage and 8 GB of RAM, offered as new‑in‑box units (not refurbished or open‑box).
Pricing History at Walmart
- March 2024: Launched at $699.
- Subsequent drops: $649 → $599 → $549 (Black Friday sale).
Walmart also lists refurbished units from “trusted sellers” starting at $449.
Current Stock Situation
As of the latest check, the M1 MacBook Air is out of stock on Walmart’s U.S. website, with no indication of a restock date.
Discontinuation Context
Apple discontinued the M1‑based MacBook Air in 2024 after rolling out models with the M3 chip and later the M4 chip. Before discontinuation, the new‑in‑box price for the M1 model was $999, though Amazon occasionally offered it for $749–$899.
Potential New Lower‑Cost MacBook
Several reports and leakers suggest Apple may launch a lower‑priced MacBook in early March, possibly using a version of the iPhone 16 Pro’s A18 Pro chip. Key rumored details:
- Chip: A18 Pro (6‑core CPU, 6‑core GPU) with performance comparable to the M1.
- Design: All‑new model positioned below the MacBook Air, reviving the “MacBook” name without “Air” or “Pro.”
- Screen: Potential 12.9‑inch display, available in colors such as green, blue, pink, and yellow.
- Historical parallel: The discontinued 12‑inch MacBook (Intel‑based) was ultra‑thin and lightweight; this would be the first similar‑sized MacBook powered by Apple silicon.
The out‑of‑stock status at Walmart could hint that Apple is preparing to replace the M1 Air with this upcoming model.
Additional Factors
Rising DRAM and NAND storage prices may also have contributed to the stock depletion.
This article originally appeared on MacRumors.com.