Next-Generation MacBook Air to Include Black Option?

Apple is widely believed to be set to introduce new Sandy Bridge-based MacBook Air models in the very near future, with a variety of sources over the past few months having pegged the refresh for a June-July timeframe. One recent report has claimed that Apple is holding the MacBook Air release until OS X Lion is ready to go, meaning that a release would apparently occur sometime in July.

Detailed specs on the new models have yet to appear, although they will almost certainly include the new Thunderbolt connectivity standard being pushed forward by Apple and be based on Intel's Sandy Bridge platform, a significant enhancement over the Core 2 Duo platform used in the current MacBook Airs.

Over the past week, we've received several anonymous tips claiming that at least some models of the next-generation MacBook Air will be be available with a black finish, different from the aluminum case used on the current MacBook Air and most of Apple's other Macs. The most specific of the claims suggests that a black anodized aluminum case would be available on a top-end MacBook Air model, in much the same way as Apple once offered a high-end black MacBook on top of the standard white offerings.

We are unable to confirm the rumors of a black MacBook Air option at this time, but with multiple sources having now reported the claim to us in recent days, we've decided to at least share it for interest and discussion.

FOLLOWUP: Apple Tried And Failed To Make A Black MacBook Air