Walmart Makes History M1 MacBook Air Now Available $699. Walmart has partnered with Apple to sell Macs directly for the very first time. This marks a significant shift for both companies, with Walmart offering the base model M1 MacBook Air at a highly competitive price of $699.
A New Era for Mac Sales at Walmart:
Previously, Walmart primarily relied on third-party vendors to sell Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches through their online marketplace. However, this press release signifies a new chapter, allowing customers to purchase Macs directly from Walmart for the first time.
Highlighting Affordability and Premium Quality:
Walmart emphasizes its commitment to “delivering premium quality and unmatched affordability for customers” in its official announcement. The MacBook Air, known for its sleek design, impressive performance, and long battery life, fits perfectly within this philosophy.
Executive Quote: Saving Money Without Sacrificing Quality:
Julie Barber, Walmart’s executive vice president of merchandising, sheds light on the company’s mission: “Our mission at Walmart is to help customers save money so they can live better – it’s not an either/or proposition. The very heart of that mission is the belief that customers should not have to sacrifice quality because of price. We’re working hard to bring premium brands to our physical and virtual shelves, and we’re excited to work with Apple to do just that.”
Apple’s Recent MacBook Reshuffle:
This development comes just a week after Apple introduced the M3 MacBook Air, starting at $1099. They also reduced the price of the M2 MacBook Air to $999 and discontinued sales of the M1 MacBook Air, which had previously been available for $999.
Apple Unveils M3-Powered MacBook Air 13 and 15: Introducing 3nm CPU to the Masses
Unbeatable Price Point for the M1 MacBook Air:
Walmart’s $699 price tag for the M1 MacBook Air is a major selling point. This is particularly attractive considering it’s a brand-new device, not refurbished or renewed. In comparison, Apple’s refurbished store sells the M1 MacBook Air for $759.
Availability:
The M1 MacBook Air is now available for purchase online through Walmart’s website. Physical availability in select Walmart stores is expected “soon.”
Potential Impact:
This collaboration between Walmart and Apple has the potential to significantly impact the accessibility of MacBooks. The lower price point through Walmart could entice new users who might have previously found MacBooks cost-prohibitive. Additionally, it could potentially spark competition within the Mac market, leading to further price reductions or bundled deals.
Looking Ahead:
Walmart’s entry into the direct sales of Macs is a significant development. It opens doors for a wider audience to experience the benefits of Apple’s computing power and sleek design. The success of this venture could pave the way for an expanded selection of Apple products offered directly by Walmart in the future.