Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Computing

Apple working to fix MacBook Air Wi-Fi issues, testing software update

By

MacBook Air 2013 review logoAlthough Apple has so far made no official announcement regarding Wi-Fi connectivity issues with the latest iteration of its MacBook Air, it appears the company is moving ahead with sorting out the problem which has been affecting a number of users.

News site AppleInsider reported over the weekend that Apple has been sending out emails to select MacBook Air owners asking if they’d like to help test out a pre-release version of a Wi-Fi-related software update for the machine. The tech company doesn’t make direct reference to the issue affecting some users, though the contents of the message seem to suggest it’s moving towards sorting out the problem.

Recommended Videos

“You have been selected to join our AppleSeed Program,” the message said. “If you accept, we will provide you with a pre-release version of the MacBook Air Wi-Fi Update 1.0 to install and use.”

It continued, “While trying out MacBook Air Wi-Fi Update 1.0, we ask that you provide us with your feedback. Our program includes a bug reporting system for our participants. If you wish to be a seed volunteer and help Apple release high-quality software, follow the instructions below.”

Although both the 11-inch and 13-inch MacBook Air machines support the new, faster 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard, some users have been taking to forums to complain of, for example, dropped connections. Slower than expected data transfer rates have reportedly also been affecting some owners of the ultra-thin computer.

The problem has prompted the Cupertino company to instruct Apple store employees to return faulty machines to base for testing or offer the owner of an affected Air a USB-to-Ethernet adapter enabling connection to the Internet until a fix for the current issue is rolled out.

According to AppleInsider, users who’ve already agreed to the tech giant’s terms said it’s yet to activate the invitation codes or send out the pre-release software.

Apple’s revamped MacBook Air computers, which were unveiled at its WWDC event in San Francisco last month, sport better battery life, a quicker graphics processor and, for those unaffected by the current issues, speedier Wi-Fi.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Trevor Mogg
Trevor Mogg
Contributing Editor
Not so many moons ago, Trevor moved from one tea-loving island nation that drives on the left (Britain) to another (Japan)…
Why you should buy a Mac mini instead of a MacBook Air
Apple Mac Mini side view showing edges.

Apple’s MacBook Air is an incredibly popular device, and it’s our pick for the best MacBook you can buy. But there’s a strong case to be made for passing over it and buying a Mac mini instead. Apple’s desktop computer is cheaper, supports more displays and ports, and is better for your posture. Those reasons could be enough to sway the balance in its favor.

If you’re on the fence, give this guide a read to see if it helps you make up your mind. Here, we’ll show you four of the most compelling reasons to buy a Mac mini instead of a MacBook Air.
It’s much cheaper

Read more
Best MacBook Memorial Day deals: MacBook Air and MacBook Pro
An Apple iPad and a MacBook together on a desk alongside a pair of headphones.

Memorial Day often means we see some great laptop deals, and right now we’re already seeing some excellent early Memorial Day discounts on MacBooks. If you’re keen to snap up one of the best MacBooks for less, this is the perfect opportunity to do so. Apple is one of the best laptop brands around, so MacBooks are a great investment made even better when you can buy one for a discount. If you’re keen to check out the deals, keep reading while we take you through our highlights.
Best MacBook Air Memorial Day deals

There are a few different MacBook Airs around these days with the latest MacBook Air (M3), followed by the MacBook Air (M2), and older but still competent MacBook Air (M1). Whichever one you go for, you’re getting a lightweight yet speedy device which can keep up with your busy days. Here are the best MacBook Air Memorial Day deals we’ve spotted so far.

Read more
The MacBook monopoly just got overturned
The Surface Laptop shown in front of a Copilot+ sign.

MacBooks have had a good ride.

It's been four years of running circles around Intel, AMD, Microsoft, and every laptop manufacturer with their Apple Silicon ARM chips. Until very recently, PC sales had been tanking too, all while Macs were holding steady.

Read more