Windows laptop makers are concerned that they may suffer from weak demand in the second half of 2022, due to Apple’s new MacBook Air and negative consumer sentiment, as per a report by DigiTimes. The focus of the report is specifically on the release of the M2 MacBook Air, which features an upgraded design, faster processor, and improved camera.
Windows laptop OEMs are already worried because of the M2 MacBook Air
As noted by MacRumors, the DigiTimes report points out that a Wintel (Windows + Intel laptop) maker pointed out that between the $1,000 – $1,500 price range, the MacBook Air is a more interesting offering compared to high-end Windows laptops. With the improvements on offer in the M2 MacBook Air, the price increase still keeps it within an acceptable budget range for consumers.
“A Wintel brand vendor pointed out that at a price point of US$1,000-$1,500, the MacBook Air will crowd out other high-end notebooks,” the report claims, with “Wintel” referring to Windows laptops powered by Intel processors. The report added that “upgrades to the M2 processor, camera lens, and casing put the slight price increase of the new MacBook Air within an acceptable range for consumers.”
This is not really surprising as the last time Apple updated its MacBook Air design, over a decade ago, was also a turning point at which it assumed a leading position in its segment.
Apple started its migration to its own custom silicon back in November 2020, with the release of the M1 chip, which was part of the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and Mac mini updates. The company later released M1 Pro, M1 Max, and M1 Ultra chips in other Macs, to appeal to professional users.
At WWDC 2022, Apple announced its second-generation silicon, the M2 chip, which is accompanied by a new 13.6-inch MacBook Air. The new MacBook Air features a new design and display, a 1080p camera, a MagSafe port, and more.
Even though the new MacBook Air costs more than its M1 MacBook Air predecessor, which Apple is still selling, the improvements to its design, display, CPU and GPU performance, and connectivity, mean that its an impressive offering when compared to the competitors offered in the Windows world.
The new M2 MacBook Air will be available for order starting Friday, July 8, while shipping and in-store availability will start from Friday, July 15.
