MacBook Air 2016 release date before the holidays?

Reuters

While most Apple fans are still checking out newly released devices such as the iPad Pro and Mini 4, some observers are speculating on whether the Cupertino-based company still has some surprises left before the end of the year.

According to the rumor mill, Apple will be making another huge release before 2015 ends, and this time it will be a new MacBook Air.

In a report by Yibada, it is suggested that the 2016 MacBook Air will launch just in time for Christmas, making it a perfect holiday gift. Meanwhile, another iteration, the MacBook Pro, will have a spring 2016 release. NeuroGadget said that these release dates are the adjusted rollout periods for the two flagships, since the iPad Pro has been scheduled to be launched this month. Having at least two professional-level devices competing against each other will more likely hurt Apple's sales figures in the long run. The report also suggested that the release for the two MacBooks have been delayed owing to some components missing their target dates of completion.

While being indirect, some observers say reports Apple's sales figures are evidence that the Cupertino-based company may be preparing for a massive comeback before the year ends. According to the Herald Sun, Apple's PC market has been in a downward trend for almost two years. This projection might force Apple to invigorate its PC and laptop departments with fresh products like the MacBook Air 2016 and a new MacBook Pro.

In addition, Apple may well come out with the new iteration for this year just to put up a competition with Microsoft. When the Redmond-based giant announced its newest Microsoft Surface Pro 4 hybrid, it was said to be directly competing with the MacBook. This might make Apple push for an earlier release for the next iteration of MacBooks.