MacBook Air 2017 release date, specs & features rumors: Entire 'MacBook Air' line could be discontinued

Following the disappointing 2016 update of the MacBook Air lineup, which no less only included an optional random-access memory (RAM) upgrade in the standard package for the 13-inch variant, and the deliberate exclusion of the device during the huge October event by the Cupertino-based tech giant, people are now naturally assuming that the entire roster is done for good.

This has been further revered by recent speculations pointing that Apple Inc. is en route to concluding the entire "Air" line altogether — and yes, that includes the firm's favorited line of tablets, iPad Air. According to tech blogger Jack March who was able to speak with a source close to the situation, the company is about to ditch the MacBook Air roster along with its thinnest iPad offerings.

In addition, the advent of the 12-inch MacBook and the 12-inch iPad Pro has spelled doom for the 11-inch MacBook Air variant. As such, the iPad Pro is also viewed by many, including Apple, as a replacement of the 11-inch MacBook Air. And as per CEO Tim Cook during the launching of iPad Pro, "I think if you're looking at a PC, why would you buy a PC anymore? No really, why would you buy one?"

Cook has added, "Yes, the iPad Pro is a replacement for a notebook or a desktop for many, many people. They will start using it and conclude they no longer need to use anything else, other than their phones."

Noted Apple guru, KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, has also noted that Apple is planning to launch a 13-inch MacBook to be placed alongside the 12-inch MacBook — ultimately replacing the MacBook Air lineup moving forward.

On the other hand, the MacBook Air roster may also be replaced by a Retina MacBook range at a lower price in the future.