Runs on the A18, looks like 8GB unified RAM on all models. Only real choices are color and you can get 256 GB without Touch ID for $599 or 512 GB with Touch ID for $699. Primarily for school or office work, web browsing, video streaming. No MagSafe, two USB-C ports (one USB 3, one USB 2) and a headphone jack with a 13” screen.

The 13" M5 MacBook Air now starts at $1099.

This seems like a solid consumer friendly product.

Good price point, several clear use cases, no frills, and will meet the needs of like 80% of people.

It also makes it very easy when my in laws ask what computer to get. Ideally I could point them to Linux. It’s still relatively hard to wreck a macOS install, so this is a safe bet where they can run an office suit a d show slideshows of their trip photos.

If only I could trust Time Machine for backups for family but it always breaks, and there’s no obvious time capsule like hardware for sale.

rofl no. The only thing threatening the Windows PC market is Microslop.

Apple really has a way of creating really great products and then just kneecapping the fuck outta them somehow. The 8GB RAM limitation is that kneecap.

I would gladly pay an extra $200 for another 8GB RAM, even though it would cost Apple maybe $20. But it's not even offered as an option. And of course, you can't just remove it and install your own, because it's "unified" garbage. As is, you have to upgrade to the $1100 Air to get that, which is a $500 tax on 8GB RAM. And that's too fucking much.