#396 - Big Mac updates!

This week: Big Mac updates! But not like a Big Mac. We're talking computers. Never mind, look—Apple just updated the MacBook Air, dropped the price, and supercharged the 13-inch MacBook Pro. Plus: a new report says Apple will finally update the butterfly with the design we were all hoping for. And we wrap with a true story that could save you thousands: how neglecting the batteries in your tech could cost you BIG.

This episode supported by

Easily create a beautiful website all by yourself, at Squarespace.com/cultcast. Use offer code CultCast at checkout to get 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain.

Cult of Mac's watch store is full of beautiful straps that cost way less than Apple's. See the full curated collection at Store.Cultofmac.com

CultCloth will keep your iPhone X, Apple Watch, Mac and iPad sparkling clean, and for a limited time use code CULTCAST at checkout to score a free CleanCloth with any order at CultCloth.co.

On the show this week

@erfon / @lkahney / @lewiswallace

This week's stories

Apple may be gearing up to replace controversial MacBook keyboard

• According to a new research note from Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is set to replace them with a whole new keyboard switch mechanism. According to big Ming, this will debut with the 2019 MacBook Air (more on that in a second)
• This would be a return to the previous keyboard design, but with an Apple twist.
• Kuo says the switches in the new scissor keyboards will be made from glass-filled nylon, and material that is stronger than plastic, so it allows Apple to make the internal components stronger and thinner.
• This is the same material used in the switches of the 2015 butterfly keyboard mechanisms.

Latest MacBooks still use Apple’s flawed butterfly keyboard

• Big Ming got it wrong: Apple's newest MacBooks use the same 3rd-gen keybaord as the 2019 MacBook Pro, and are already included in the extended keyboard repair warranty.
• The new keyboard will likely debut in the 16" MacBook Pro.

Apple brings True Tone to MacBook Air, faster chips to MacBook Pro

• Apple has updated the MacBook Air and 13-inch MacBook Pro for the back-to-school season. And they’re now more affordable.
• The revised MacBook Air, now starts at $1,099 (down from $1,199) or $999 for college students, and has been updated with True Tone.
• The biggest improvements, however, are to the 13-inch MacBook Pro.

Apple officially ditches the 12-inch MacBook

• Apple has dropped the 12-inch MacBook after introducing an improved MacBook Air and 13-inch MacBook Pro.
• The previous MacBook Air without a Retina display, which was Apple’s most affordable notebook, has also been ditched.