MacBook Air Core 2 Duo (P7500) 2008

The original Apple MacBook Air "Core 2 Duo" 1.6 13", often called the "MBA", represented Apple's first major entry into the subnotebook market since the PowerBook 2400c and Duo series (though 12" PowerBook G4 models were also quite compact).

Powering the "MBA" is a custom-miniaturized 1.6 GHz Intel "Core 2 Duo" processor (P7500), with two independent cores, a 4 MB on-chip shared L2 cache, and an 800 MHz frontside bus.

Its configuration includes 2 GB of non-upgradable 667 MHz DDR2 SDRAM, an 80 GB PATA (4200 RPM) hard drive, and an integrated Intel GMA X3100 graphics processor that shares 144 MB of DDR2 SDRAM with system memory. The device also has an iSight video camera, a "MacBook-style" full-size backlit keyboard with an ambient light sensor, and a 13.3-inch widescreen TFT LED-backlit "glossy" display (1280x800 native resolution), all within a three-pound, razor-thin (0.16-0.76 inch) aluminum case.

Connectivity is handled by AirPort Extreme (802.11a/b/g/n), Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, a single USB 2.0 port, analog audio out, and a micro-DVI port for video output to an external 24" display. It omits Ethernet (an external adapter was sold separately), Firewire, and optical audio I/O.

As with any subnotebook, it is crucial to understand that Apple prioritized size and weight, leading to compromises in performance, expansion, connectivity, and cost. While the system boasts a remarkably large 13.3" display for its class, a full-size keyboard, and a trackpad with "multi-touch gesturing" support, it uses a slower processor than contemporary standard MacBooks, has non-upgradable memory, lacks an internal optical drive, and features a non-user-replaceable battery.

The original MacBook Air was received as a marvel of engineering, with its impossibly thin design capturing widespread attention. Reviewers praised its full-size keyboard and large trackpad, which were considered remarkable for such a slim device. However, its performance was a major point of criticism; the 1.6 GHz Core 2 Duo processor and slow PATA hard drive made it feel underpowered for anything beyond basic web browsing and document editing. The single USB port and lack of an optical drive were also seen as significant compromises for portability, making it a niche, albeit beautiful, machine.