The 12-inch MacBook, when it was released, signalled a shift back to a budget-ish laptop that was focussed mainly on the student market. When it was released, Apple was embedded in the Intel world and it chose the MacBook to debut its first fanless laptop. It was minimalist machine with just a single USB-C port (Apple’s first foray onto the now ubiquitous port – welcome to the dongle life) and a headphone port. While it did have a Retina Display, it was somewhat strangled by an underpowered CPU and graphics chip.
Apple’s policy is to classify as device as obsolete seven years after it stops being sold. With the last MacBook leaving Apple’s factories in 2016, the time has come for Apple to retire this model. That means spare parts and service will cease to be available through Apple Stores and Apple Authorised Service Providers.
It’s not surprising that this model is soon to be relegated to the history books. But it’s a shame. I imagine a 12-inch MacBook powered by an M1 would be a great portable machine. But that spot in Apple’s product range is now owned by the 13-inch MacBook Air.
So, it’s farewell to the first of the new MacBooks. The second iteration of this laptop will reman supported until around 2026.
Source: Internal Apple memo obtained by MacRumors
Anthony is the founder of Australian Apple News. He is a long-time Apple user and former editor of Australian Macworld. He has contributed to many technology magazines and newspapers as well as appearing regularly on radio and occasionally on TV.