Exclusive: macOS 26 Beta Hints at Major MacBook Air Redesign

August 14, 2025 – Apple's software betas are often treasure troves for eagle-eyed users hunting for clues about future hardware, and the newly seeded macOS 26 "Tahoe" beta is no exception. Buried within the code lies compelling evidence pointing towards a significant redesign for the MacBook Air line, potentially headlined by a new 12.9-inch model that finally ditches the controversial display notch.

The discovery, initially flagged by keen observer @snoah_05 on X (formerly Twitter), centers around references to unreleased Mac identifiers within the macOS 26 beta code. Crucially, alongside the expected identifiers for existing models, code strings point to a MacBookAir with a display size listed as 12.9 inches – a size currently exclusive to the higher-end MacBook Pro line.

[Embedded Link: https://x.com/snoah_05/status/1954989172126548067]

Even more intriguing is the absence of any mention of a notch for this specific 12.9-inch MacBookAir model. Current MacBook Airs (13-inch and 15-inch) and MacBook Pros all feature the notch housing the 1080p FaceTime HD camera and ambient light sensor. The code suggests this new model might feature slimmer, uniform bezels, potentially integrating the camera and sensors directly into the top bezel without the distinctive cutout.

What We Know (And What We're Speculating)

The Evidence: The macOS 26 beta contains explicit references to a MacBookAir model with a display_size property set to 12.9. Crucially, the usual notch-related UI adjustments (SystemUINotchWidth) appear absent or configured differently for this identifier.
The Size: A 12.9-inch MacBook Air would position it uniquely between the existing 13.6-inch and 15.3-inch Air models, offering a larger screen than the base model but in a potentially more portable form factor than the 15-inch, especially if bezels shrink significantly.
The Notch: The lack of notch-related code adjustments is the strongest indicator yet that Apple might be ready to eliminate this design element from at least one MacBook line. This aligns with persistent rumors and analyst reports suggesting Apple has been working on under-display camera technology.
The Timing: macOS 26 "Tahoe" is the next major iteration of macOS, expected to be previewed at WWDC 2026 and released in Fall 2026. This strongly suggests the hardware it references – this potential notchless 12.9-inch MacBook Air – would launch around that timeframe, likely in late 2026.
The Implications: Moving away from the notch could signal a shift towards a cleaner, more iPad Pro-like aesthetic for MacBooks. It also raises questions:

Face ID? Could this pave the way for the long-awaited debut of Face ID on the Mac? The notch currently houses the necessary sensors. Slimmer bezels might necessitate a different solution or indicate Face ID isn't arriving just yet.
Display Tech: Could this larger Air model feature mini-LED or even OLED technology, previously reserved for Pro models? The bezel reduction might be easier to achieve with newer display tech.
Processor: It would almost certainly feature Apple Silicon, likely an iteration beyond the M4 chip expected in 2026 (perhaps an M5 or M4 Pro variant?).

Industry Buzz and Analysis

Tech publication 9to5Mac has corroborated these findings, delving deeper into the code and confirming the existence of the 12.9-inch identifier and the notch-related anomalies. Their analysis reinforces the likelihood that this is more than just placeholder code.

[Embedded Link: https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/11/macos-26-video-macbook-air-no-notch/]

"The removal of the notch has been a frequent request from MacBook users since its introduction," notes industry analyst Ben Carter. "Seeing evidence of it disappearing, especially on a larger Air model that could appeal to both consumers and professionals seeking a lighter machine, is significant. It suggests Apple is confident in alternative camera placement or under-display technology maturity. A 12.9-inch screen also strategically fills a gap in their ultra-portable lineup."

Proceed with Cautious Optimism

It's crucial to remember this information comes from pre-release beta software. While code discoveries like this have accurately predicted future hardware in the past (like the original iPhone X notch), Apple's plans can and do change before launch. Features can be added, removed, or reworked.

However, the specificity of the 12.9-inch MacBookAir identifier and the distinct lack of notch-handling code make this a highly credible leak. If accurate, Apple is preparing a major shake-up for its most popular laptop line, offering a unique screen size and potentially ushering in a new, notch-free design era for the MacBook Air.

Stay tuned for more developments as macOS 26 Tahoe evolves and we get closer to WWDC 2026. This notchless 12.9-inch MacBook Air is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Mac reveals of next year.