Walmart has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Apple, marking the first time the retail giant will sell Apple MacBooks directly to consumers. This collaboration debuts with an enticing offer on the 2020 M1 MacBook Air, now available for an unprecedented $699 on Walmart's online platform and soon to hit the shelves of select physical stores.
Historically, Walmart has catered to a market seeking affordable computing, predominantly featuring Windows PCs, such as those from the revitalized Gateway brand under Acer's ownership. The introduction of Apple's MacBooks to Walmart's lineup signifies a strategic shift, aiming to blend the allure of premium brands with Walmart's mission to offer value to its customers.
Julie Barber, Walmart's Executive Vice President, emphasized the retailer's commitment to enhancing customer value without compromising on brand quality. "Our mission at Walmart is to help customers save money so they can live better-it's not an either/or proposition," Barber stated, highlighting the excitement surrounding the partnership with Apple.
The spotlight is on the M1 MacBook Air, a model discontinued by Apple earlier this month with the launch of the M3 MacBook Air. Prior to this Walmart deal, the M1 variant was relegated to Apple's refurbished store, priced starting at $759. The offering at Walmart, notably, is not branded as refurbished, presenting a new unit equipped with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage at a price point that's even more competitive than recent discounts seen elsewhere.
The discontinuation of the M1 MacBook Air by Apple had led to a nostalgic wave among fans of its distinctive wedge shape, a design feature missing in the newer M3 version. Walmart's announcement has thus reignited enthusiasm for the iconic design, offering consumers a chance to own the beloved laptop at a bargain price.
While the M1 MacBook Air is currently listed as the sole MacBook configuration available through Walmart, the move could signal broader future collaborations between the two companies. The duration of this deal and the continuity of M1 MacBook Air supply to Walmart remains uncertain, with Apple yet to comment on the specifics of the arrangement.
This partnership represents a significant milestone for Walmart, introducing a high-demand premium product to its electronics lineup and potentially attracting a new segment of consumers. For Apple, the deal with Walmart extends the retail presence and accessibility of its products, especially for those seeking the acclaimed performance of the M1 chip at a more accessible price point.
