Just how good is that new MacBook Air? Our editor in chief calls it an "instant classic" in his review, which offers some interesting insights into the incredible performance of this M1-powered laptop.

However, buyer beware: If you're considering snapping up one of these new Macs with Apple Silicon inside, there are several things that could be deal-breakers, depending on your own particular needs. Be sure to check out our quick checklist of "6 reasons an M1 Mac might not be right for you."

-- Lewis Wallace, managing editor

M1 MacBook Air is an instant classic — www.cultofmac.com

Apple's most popular notebook is now faster and more efficient than ever before, thanks to Apple Silicon. The new MacBook Air with its brilliant M1 chip promises huge boosts in both processing and graphics power — and for the same price as the previous model.

News and opinion

6 reasons an M1 Mac might not be right for you — www.cultofmac.com

The first Macs running the M1 processor are crazy-fast, making lots of MacBook and Mac mini users consider dumping their Intel-based Macs. Before you do, here’s everything you give up when buying a computer powered by Apple Silicon.

Plus: This handy guide lists all the M1-compatible Mac apps

iOS 14 widgets changed the way I use my iPhone — www.cultofmac.com

After a decade with an iPhone, I didn’t expect anything could come along to transform the way I use my phone. iOS 14 widgets proved me wrong.

Apple Watch, MacBook tipped for big redesigns in late 2021 — www.cultofmac.com

Reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo expects Apple’s next-generation wearable to bring “innovative health management functions” along with a major industrial design refresh.

Plus, more Apple rumors:

• iPad Pro could get super-fast mmWave 5G in 2021

• iPad Pro could make switch to OLED screens in second half of 2021

iPhone 12 Pro components cost surprisingly little — www.cultofmac.com

The high-end smartphone starts at $999, but the hardware inside costs less than half that.

M1 Mac trick lets you use up to 6 external displays at once — www.cultofmac.com

A newly discovered workaround for the Apple Silicon-powered Macs really expands your options.

Deals

Cult of Mac Store kicks off its biggest-ever sale for Black Friday — www.cultofmac.com

Our massive sale is now in full swing, bringing you generous discounts on the hottest iPhone and Apple Watch accessories from some of the best brands around — this weekend only!

Plus, more Black Friday savings:

• Don’t miss these big Black Friday deals on Apple devices

• Holiday gift guide: Best gifts under $150

Snag Kodak photo gear that bridges the old and the new — www.cultofmac.com

These four great bits of Kodak gear bridge the classic and the modern, from film-related tools to an iPhone case printer.

Get more from your iPhone with 4 great accessories under $50 — www.cultofmac.com

iPhones can do a lot, but there’s only so much you can squeeze into such a slim profile. These four great iPhone accessories will make it possible to get a lot more out of your smartphone.

Plus, more great deals:

• Save on these top Lightning and USB-C cables

• Take your pick of 4 great iPhone and Mac apps for less than $40

Reviews

Add old-world charm to your iPhone with a wooden case — www.cultofmac.com

An iPhone doesn’t have to look coldly technological. Oakywood cases add cherry or walnut to your phone, giving it a more natural appearance.

Add dual 4K HDMI screens to your MacBook with this slim USB-C hub — www.cultofmac.com

The Aukey 9-in-2 USB-C Hub lets you add a pair of 4K HDMI screens to your MacBook. But that’s just the start, because it packs in nine ports, despite a relatively small size.

How-tos

How to avoid macOS reinstallation errors on M1 Macs — www.cultofmac.com

Apple has confirmed that some M1 Mac owners may run into an error message when attempting to reinstall macOS on their new machines. If you’re one of them, there are some things you can do to avoid it.