Apple's MacBook Refresh Draws Tepid Response

Apple on Tuesday announced a refreshed MacBook with some incremental improvements but nothing likely to dazzle even the staunchest Mac fans.

What's new:

• a sixth-generation dual-core 1.1 GHz Intel Core M3 Skylake processor
• an Intel HD Graphics 515 integrated graphics processor
• faster, PCIe-based flash storage
• increased battery life
• rose gold finish
  
• a redesigned keyboard
• removal of LEDs behind the keys
• a Force Touch trackpad
• a downgraded FaceTime camera
• no fan

The MacBook has one USB-C port and has built-in 802.11ac WiFi and Bluetooth 4.0. It runs OS X El Capitan.

Available on Apple's website from Tuesday, and in Apple's retail stores and at select authorized resellers from Wednesday, the MacBook starts at US$1,300.

The improved battery life and fanless design got the attention of Eric Smith, a senior analyst at Strategy Analitic.

"Battery life is always top of mind for consumers," Smith told TechNewsWorld.

However, he was "a little disappointed" that there has been no improvement to display resolution, as "more PC OEMs are going to 4K displays in this price tier.