Apple prepping 15-inch MacBook Air -- and Rosetta 2 going away in some regions?!

Posted on Wednesday, March 03 2021 @ 10:22 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
Apple logo
Last month I wrote a review of the Apple MacBook Air M1 -- really a great device. Unless you really need Windows for certain workflows, the MacBook Air M1 really redefines what a laptop is. It offers an instant-on experience, is super fast, produces no heat during regular use, is dead quiet, and has an amazing battery life too. That's the MacBook Air M1 in a nutshell.

MacBook Air finally getting 15-inch version... but not soon

Apple has never made a MacBook Air with a screen larger than 13.3-inch. The 13.3" form factor is ideal for on-the-go use, it results in a compact laptop with a screen still large enough to be easy on the eyes. However, a lot of people are interested in a larger version, to be able to use the device as a desktop replacement.

Citing a Bloomberg report written by Mark Gurman, UberGizmo reports a MacBook Air with a 15-inch panel is in the works. Apple is redesigning its MacBook Air lineup, the future refresh is expected to deliver thinner display bezels and a smaller and lighter form factor.

So when can we expect this 15" MacBook Air? The earliest possible launch date seems late 2021 or early 2022.
The report also goes on to claim that Apple will be redesigning its MacBook Air, although what exactly this means remains to be seen. However, it is said that they will be thinner and lighter and could feature even smaller bezels. There is no word on when this laptop will be launched, but given that Apple launched the M1 MacBook Airs back in late 2020, this means that we might only be able to expect a new MacBook Air either later this year or possibly early 2022. - UberGizmo
Based on the latest rumors, Apple may soon have a laptop range that covers every size from 13" to 16". At the moment, there are 13.3" MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models, and a 16" MacBook Pro. The rumored 15" MacBook Air, as well as a 14" MacBook Pro, would result in a wide variety of display choices for the MacBook laptop series.

Apple forced to remove Rosetta2 in some regions?

With the switch to the ARM platform, Apple had to come up with a way to offer backwards compatibility with applications designed for x86-based Mac computers. The firm's Rosetta 2 emulation is not perfect -- but overall it works remarkably well.

At the moment, Apple is rolling the third beta version of macOS 11.3. MacRumors writer Steve Moser discovered the newest beta contains some weird strings that suggest Rosetta will be removed in certain countries in macOS 11.3.

The site reached out to Apple but did not receive a reply. It's unknown why Apple might remove Rosetta 2 support on some M1-based Macs but it could be due to legal or copyright reasons. Alternatively, it could be related to export control issues to sanctioned countries.
It's unclear why macOS 11.3 might remove Rosetta 2 on M1 Macs in some regions, but perhaps there are legal or copyright reasons involved. Apple did not immediately respond to our request for comment, but we'll provide an update if we hear back.
It's unclear which regions might be affected by this. There are no known legal disputes regarding Rosetta 2.



About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



Loading Comments