MacBook Air Early 2015

The MacBook Air "Core i7" 2.2 11-Inch (Early 2015/Broadwell) is a "configure-to-order" version of the MacBook Air "Core i5" 1.6 11-Inch (Early 2015/Broadwell), also documented separately for convenience. Besides the processor and its larger L3 cache, these two models are identical. The Apple MacBook Air "Core i7" 2.2 11-Inch (Early 2015/Broadwell) is powered by a 14-nm "Broadwell ULT" 2.2 GHz Intel "Core i7" processor (5650U) with two independent processor "cores" on a single chip, a 4 MB shared level 3 cache, 4 GB of onboard 1600 MHz LPDDR3 SDRAM (upgradable to 8 GB at purchase, but not later), 128 GB or 256 GB of PCIe-based flash storage, and an integrated Intel HD Graphics 6000 processor that shares system memory.

This is all housed in a slim (0.11-0.68 inch), 2.3-pound aluminum case with an integrated 720p "FaceTime HD" webcam, a backlit full-size keyboard, and an 11.6-inch widescreen TFT LED-backlit active-matrix "glossy" display (1366x768 native resolution).

Connectivity includes 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, analog audio out, a single "Thunderbolt" 2 port, and two USB 3.0 ports.

Compared to its predecessor, this model looks nearly identical but features a more advanced processor and architecture, superior graphics, longer reported battery life, and Thunderbolt 2 support. It also has different identifiers.

The custom-ordered 2.2 GHz Core i7 processor in the Early 2015 11-inch model made it the most powerful 11-inch laptop Apple had ever produced. This Broadwell chip provided a noticeable performance advantage over the Core i5, making it remarkably adept at handling demanding applications. The faster Intel HD 6000 graphics and Thunderbolt 2 support further enhanced its capabilities. For users who craved the ultimate combination of portability and power, this configuration was the pinnacle. It was lauded as a niche but impressive machine that packed incredible punch for its diminutive size.