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MacBook Air 2017 release date, news, specs rumors: Mac Air series not yet over? Next iteration to be released early next year

A MacBook Air laptop is pictured on display at an Apple Store in Pasadena, California July 22, 2013. | Reuters/Mario Anzuoni

Many tech enthusiasts tuned in to last October's Apple hardware event to get the latest updates on the MacBook products. Specifically, the public was interested to see the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air refresh. The Apple fans were delighted to see the new and powerful MacBook Pro 2016, although many were also disappointed when the Cupertino-based tech giant made no mention of a refreshed MacBook Air laptop.

Still, the Mac Air followers are still hopeful that Apple will still update the Air series. Although there are no clear signs from Apple, the rumors are rife that the all-new MacBook Air will arrive sometime next year. According to Game N Guide, the MacBook Air 2017 will be unveiled by Apple during the company's March hardware event. Apple recently picked up the habit of having a hardware event in March, starting with this year when they showcased the iPad Pro and iPhone SE. It is possible that Apple will also hold the first hardware event next year in March, this time to showcase the new MacBook Air.

One of the possible major improvements of the MacBook Air 2017 is the replacement of USB-A ports. The MacBook Air has not been updated for a long time, so it is likely that the 2017 Mac Air will go straight to the latest USB-C ports, Mac Rumors reported. It is also expected to sport a Touch ID, as well as fingerprint sensor on its screen display for better security features. It will also sport an Apple Pencil-enabled Track Pad, although what's actually interesting is the arrival of Apple's famous virtual assistant Siri in MacBook.

There are other rumors suggesting that the upcoming Mac Air will be powered by the present Intel Skylake chipset, although there is a possibility that it will be among the first devices to boast the next generation Intel Kaby Lake processor.

There are still more details to confirm whether the 2017 MacBook Air will come into fruition or not. Some people are suggesting that the recently released thin air MacBook Pro is already a sign that Apple will no longer release a new Air laptop, permanently replacing the current MacBook Air model. However, the public is advised to take these early rumors with a grain of salt until Apple releases an official announcement.