New Macbook Air notebooks could launch this June or July

Most, if not all, high-end business notebooks have managed to get their hands on the latest Sandy Bridge processors, yet Apple’s MacBook Air remains lagging behind the bunch. Reports of the super-slim notebook receiving an SSD upgrade are still fresh in the oven, but now we’re hearing that a refreshed model could be coming later this summer.

According to Digitimes’ sources, Apple’s Taiwan-based supply chain will begin shipping the new notebooks in May, ahead of a June or July launch. As always, Apple is mum on the subject, but this isn’t the first we’ve heard of a possible May production date.

Furthermore, the Digitimes report indicates that Apple’s suppliers have stayed the same, with Quanta Computer remaining in charge of assembly. Other suppliers include Catcher Technology for casings, Auras Technology for thermal modules and Simplo Technology teaming up with Dynapack to provide the batteries.

If the preceding news wasn’t enough to excite Apple fans, Cupertino has apparently also topped 2.7 Million notebook PCs shipped in Q1 of 2011. Ironically, the 2^nd highest quarterly level of shipments is also a 5% decrease compared to the amount shipped in Q2 of 2010. However, estimates indicate that Apple will likely manage to top the 3 Million PC mark in the upcoming second quarter due to an expected 5-10% increase.

Unfortunately, the report makes no mention of the ultra-light notebook’s upgrades and we’re left wondering what the exact specs will be. Sandy Bridge processors are likely to be a given, but there’s no telling what secrets Apple may be hiding under their sleeve. Make sure to check back here for more info and rumors as we get closer to the inevitable release.

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