The MacBook Neo features a 13.0” Liquid Retina display, which is slightly smaller than the MacBook Air model at 13.6”. Along with a new display size/resolution for a MacBook, the MacBook Neo actually has thicker bezels than those on either the MacBook Air or MacBook Pro. Thicker bezels on the Neo mean there’s no notch, allowing for more uniform bezels similar to those on any iPad. However, one feature that’s borrowed from the iPad and iPhone is that the Neo actually features a software-based camera privacy indicator instead of a physical indicator light.
If you look closely at one of the marketing images on the MacBook Neo’s website and a brief product video you’d find on something like the “Buy Now” page on Amazon, you’ll find a green dot located on the top-right corner, similar to how it’s implemented on an iPad.
It’s unclear why Apple ditched a physical indicator light for the built-in software-based green dot, but it’s likely to save costs by removing unnecessary components. The MacBook Neo also lacks the ambient light sensor, which means this MacBook doesn’t have automatic brightness, True Tone technology, or even backlit keys.
The MacBook Neo will be available on March 11, but shipping dates continue to slip by the time you’re reading this. So if you want one, I’d suggest you order one now. Most likely, Apple Stores will have them ready for pick-up.
