Apple MacBook’s Influence on the Modern Mac Lineup

Apple has recently classified the 2015 12-inch MacBook as an obsolete product, which implies that users of this model will no longer have access to repair and service options at Apple Stores and authorized service centers. Nevertheless, the design and features of this laptop continue to influence the current MacBook lineup.

Designed for the future of MacBooks

The 12-inch MacBook was first launched in 2015, seven years ago, with a slim design and a Retina display – which marked a big departure from the MacBook Air with its aging HD screen and design, and essentially represented the future of MacBook design to come – including redesigned MacBook Air with TouchID and Retina display in 2018.

The laptop featured a 1.1GHz/1.2GHz Intel Core M processor, integrated Intel HD 5300 graphics, 8GB of RAM, a 256GB SSD, and the infamous Butterfly keyboard, which was so problematic (sticky keys) that Apple had to start a special repair program replaces the keyboards and lower cases of MacBook 12″ MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models that used the Butterfly keyboard free of charge.

It also brought Force touch trackpads into the mainstream and only had one USB-C port, which was unheard of. Another first was the introduction of a new gold finish, making it a hit with style-conscious buyers. It was really different at the time, and it definitely made me fall in love with the new design aesthetic that Apple brought to the table.

If you think about it, the 12-inch MacBook made significant changes to the MacBook lineup and launched a redesign for future models. In the current lineup, large Force touchpads, fanless design, and TouchID are all must-have features.

“Deprecated” tag

When a product has passed its life cycle, it is classified into two categories: Obsolete or Vintage. Products become “obsolete” when “Apple stopped distributing them for sale more than 7 years ago” and thus “Apple will stop all hardware services for obsolete products” and service providers cannot order parts for repair.

As is clear, the first iteration of the 12-inch MacBook was discontinued in April 2016 and replaced by an updated model with iterative updates. And since it’s been seven years, the MacBook 12″ is now obsolete. But if you still have one and want to get it repaired, you can always turn to third-party repair shops if they have parts in stock.