There is a big chance that the much-awaited new generation of MacBook Air with a 12-inch screen display will be released in April next year as the laptop is reportedly heading into production in the first quarter of 2015. 

It was initially speculated that the MacBook Air was headed to production last fall but that did not happen. Now, Taiwanese media DigiTimes reported that the long rumored 12-inch MacBook Air will finally arrive next year. The publication cited unnamed sources from the upstream supply chain claiming that the device will start its production early next year, hinting that the laptop may be released as soon as the second quarter. 

Moreover, the MacBook Air updated with Intel Haswell processors was released in April 2014, but since the laptop is similar to its previous version, Apple skipped an elaborate press launch. Thus, a new model just might make an appearance at about the same time in 2015. 

DigiTimes also added that the new MacBook Air will sport a thinner chassis making the device lighter. This is backed up by reports that the laptop will come with Intel's new Broadwell chipsets set to be launched next year. Packing the said processor will make the laptop sport a fanless design, which will remove the added weight in the device. Apart from 12-inch Retina screen display, other features expected to be included are a new USB Type-C port and better battery capacity. 

The laptop will be manufactured by Quanta Computer and will have limited quantities. The 12-inch MacBook Air will target the high-end market, and consumers can expect top-of-the-line specs and features packed in the device. This is Apple's way of ensuring its top place in the market. 

Rumors claimed that Apple will release the MacBook Air alongside the MacBook Pro, refreshing the whole line of MacBooks. However, Apple has not commented on the rumors yet.