Apple's next-generation MacBook Air is reportedly set to bring over many of the new MacBook Pro's features, with one noticeable omission, according to recent reports.
The latest MacBook Pro models feature a mini-LED "Liquid Retina XDR" display with deep blacks and support for up to 1,600 nits peak brightness. The display also features Apple's "ProMotion" technology, which is capable of refresh rates up to 120Hz.
Multiple sources, including Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and Taiwanese publication DigiTimes, have repeatedly said that the next-generation MacBook Air will get the same mini-LED technology for a substantial display upgrade.
Despite this technology coming over from the MacBook Pro, the MacBook Air will apparently not receive the "ProMotion" variable refresh rate up to 120Hz, according to the leaker known as "Dylandkt."
Mini-Led is likely. I can't confirm whether it will have a notch but I can say that there will be no Promotion, no Face ID, no SD Card, no tapered design, and no HDMI. Starting price is expected to increase slightly. — Dylan (@dylandkt) October 21, 2021
The move should not come as a surprise in view of Apple's existing product lineup, where only the iPad Pro and iPhone 13 Pro have ProMotion, leaving their lower end siblings, the iPad Air and iPhone 13, with a lower, fixed display refresh rate. Making ProMotion exclusive to Apple's "Pro" devices allows different devices within product lineups to be more clearly differentiated at their separate price points, without actively sacrificing overall user experience.
Mini-LED should still prove to be a major display upgrade for the MacBook Air, offering significantly better dynamic range and brightness compared to the machine's current LED-backlit display with IPS technology. Mini-LED technology appears to be trickling down Apple's product lineup, first appearing in the Pro Display XDR before being offered on the 12.9-inch iPad Pro and high-end MacBook Pro models.
For more on what to expect from the 2022 MacBook Air, such as a new design with white bezels, a range of new color options, and the M2 chip, see our detailed guide.
