MacBook 2021 release date, specs: Newly designed Macs to launch next year with Apple Silicon and Intel chips

Apple has big plans for its MacBook line in 2021, including a set of new notebooks that reportedly sport all-new designs. Another reliable source suggested that Apple might not be entirely done launching new Mac devices powered by Intel-made chips.

MacBooks with new designs to launch in 2021

Noted analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reported in a recent research note (via MacRumors) that Apple is planning to launch a lineup of newly designed MacBooks sometime in the second half of 2021. Kuo’s note did not indicate the particular MacBook models that will get redesigned for next year. But MacRumors, which obtained Kuo’s research, recall the analyst’s earlier suggestion that a future iteration of the 14” and 16” MacBook Pro laptops would be released with new designs.

Specific design changes were not indicated, but Apple has been pushing out new devices with smaller screen bezels. It is not far-fetched to expect the next MacBooks to get the same treatment.

Apple to launch new MacBooks with Intel chips?

L0vetodream, an Apple leaker with one of the highest accuracy rates, seems to agree with Kuo’s research notes. But he also added a rather surprising detail. L0vetodream shared the article referencing Kuo’s report on Twitter and added a comment, “Not only for Silicon.”

The leaker is known for often releasing leaked information through brain teasers and puzzles. But this one is relatively direct, suggesting that the newly designed MacBooks in 2021 could also launch with Intel-powered variants.

Apple announced it is shifting to its own ARM-based chips for its computers last June during the virtual WWDC keynote address. At the time, Apple said in a statement, “Apple plans to ship the first Mac with Apple silicon by the end of the year and complete the transition in about two years.” When Apple said the Apple Silicon transition would be completed in two years, many tech fans assumed that it meant there will not be new Intel-powered Mac devices to be launch within that period. Considering L0vetodream’s scoop, it now appears that it meant Apple would still launch new MacBook devices equipped with Intel processors.

So far, the company has delivered its promise and launched three Mac devices with the Apple Silicon M1 chip earlier this month. The new SoC is now available through the new 13” MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and Mac mini.

Featured photo by Thomas Budge on Unsplash