The MacBook Air “Core i7” 1.2 13-Inch (Retina, Scissor Keyboard, 2020) technically is a “configure-to-order” configuration of either the MacBook Air “Core i3″ 1.1 13” (Scissor, 2020) or “Core i5″ 1.1 13” (Scissor, 2020), but also is documented as a separate model for reader convenience. Other than processor (and the corresponding larger level 3 cache), these models can be identical.

The Apple MacBook Air “Core i7” 1.2 13-Inch (Retina, Scissor Keyboard, 2020) model features a 10-nm 10th Generation “Ice Lake” 1.2 GHz Intel “Core i7” processor (1060NG7) with four independent processor “cores” on a single chip, an 8 MB shared level 3 cache, 8 GB of onboard 3733 MHz LPDDR4X SDRAM, 256 GB or 512 GB of onboard PCIe-based flash storage, and an “integrated” Intel Iris Plus graphics processor that shares system memory. Both the RAM and the SSD can be upgraded at the time of initial system purchase, but not subsequently.

This all is tucked in a thin wedge-shaped aluminum case with an integrated 720p “FaceTime HD” webcam, Touch ID, a new backit “Magic Keyboard” with a “redesigned scissor mechanism”, a large “Force Touch” trackpad, and a high-resolution 13.3″ LED-backlit 2560×1600 (227 ppi) “Retina” display with True Tone technology.

The aluminum case is available in three color options — gold (pictured, left), silver, and a darker “Space Gray” (but not other colors) and weighs 2.8 pounds (1.29 kg). Apple estimates battery life at 11-12 hours depending on the task performed.

Connectivity includes 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5, two Thunderbolt 3 ports (USB-C connector), and a 3.5 mm headphone jack.

Compared to its predecessor, the “2020” MacBook Air lineup looks practically the same and has the same “True Tone” display, but has a newer, significantly faster processor and architecture, more capable graphics, a new — more reliable — “Scissor Switch” keyboard, more default storage, and a lower starting price tag.