When Will the 12-inch MacBook Get Thunderbolt 3?

As of August 2023, Apple has not released a new version of the 12-inch MacBook, which was discontinued in 2017. The last model featured USB-C ports but did not support Thunderbolt 3. Despite no official announcements, rumors suggest a possible revival of the 12-inch MacBook, potentially under a new name such as the MacBook Mini. This article explores the likelihood and timeline for the inclusion of Thunderbolt 3 in future iterations of the 12-inch MacBook.

Current Status and Rumors

While the 12-inch MacBook remains discontinued, some speculate its return may be on the horizon. The 13.3-inch MacBook Air M1 with Thunderbolt 3 has been available since 2020, suggesting Apple's interest in high-speed connectivity options. However, the exact fate of the 12-inch MacBook remains uncertain. If Apple does decide to revive it, it's reasonable to assume they would maintain a smaller form factor and incorporate at least one Thunderbolt 3 port for enhanced performance and connectivity.

Technical Considerations

The current 12-inch MacBook lacks Thunderbolt 3 because the low-power Intel chipset in use does not support it. This limitation stems from the chipset's design, which prioritizes power efficiency over high-speed data transfer capabilities. Thunderbolt 3 technology offers significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to its predecessors. For instance, 20 Gbps is the standard throughput for Thunderbolt 3, which is far beyond the capabilities of the current chipset.

Portability and Performance

Ultimately, the presence of Thunderbolt 3 would enhance the 12-inch MacBook's utility, especially for those who require external graphics cards for gaming or intensive workflows. The combination of portability and a high-resolution Retina display makes the 12-inch MacBook an ideal candidate for such needs. However, the timeline for integrating Thunderbolt 3 remains speculative due to Apple's secretive approach to product development.

Intel's Processor Roadmap

Intel's processor roadmap plays a crucial role in determining when Thunderbolt 3 support might arrive. The Kabylake core M processors have native Thunderbolt 3, indicating that such support could be imminent. Moreover, the timeline for Apple to integrate new chipsets into their consumer products is a factor of several months or quarters. A smart and informed guess would place the introduction of Thunderbolt 3 to the 12-inch MacBook within the next one to two years, pending the release of updated chipsets and Apple's integration schedule.

Conclusion

While the 12-inch MacBook has not seen a release since its discontinuation in 2017, the demand for a smaller, high-performance device remains. Thunderbolt 3's inclusion in future iterations is a possibility, although exact timelines remain unclear. With the combination of portability and enhanced performance potential, the 12-inch MacBook could once again be a compelling option for tech enthusiasts and professionals.

Keywords: Thunderbolt 3, 12-inch MacBook, M1 Chipset