While rumors regarding new smartphone releases are gradually slowing their roll, the Internet is now flooded with speculation about a different type of device - the release of the so-called 12-inch MacBook Air with Retina Display.

A report by MacWorld states that the new MacBook lineup is supposed to combine the portability of the 11-inch model with the power and capacity-centric features of the 13-inch MacBook versions.

While it is being said that the MacBook Air 2014 will be smaller and slimmer, the device will be relatively power-packed since it will come with the latest 14 nanometer Intel Broadwell chip - the fanless design.

Quoting a source, BGR revealed that "the display bezels are noticeably thinner, quite similar to the current MacBook Pro Retina lineup." The device is also expected to be space-efficient, while its speaker has been moved above the keyboard, making it "visible."

The site further said that the new Retina MacBook Air 2014 will do away with the MagSafe connector, replacing it with a "new, mysterious, battery charging technology" that will be completely new to the Mac line of products. As expected, the "alternative charging method" has neither been confirmed nor finalized yet.

Meanwhile, the Epoch Times also quoted a source "familiar with Apple's plans" and shared some information regarding the purported MacBook Air 2014 Retina. It is rumored that the upcoming MacBook will arrive in the same colors as the new iPhone 6 (Gold, Silver, Space Grey) and that the device will be without the standard USB port and instead use the new "reversible USB Type C" port.

The website quoted a press release issued by Jeff Ravencraft, President and COO of USB-IF, which reads, "The USB Type-C specification was developed to provide consumers with a robust connector for everything from mobile devices to PCs, and when combined with SuperSpeed USB 10 Gbps and USB Power Delivery, it truly enables a single cable solution for the market."

As of now Apple has not confirmed the release date of the Macbook Air 2014, but it is expected to arrive anytime either "at the end of 2014 or in 2015."