MacBook Air Retina 13-inch, 2020 Data Recovery
A2179 · MacBookAir9,1 – soldered storage, T2 encryption. We recover data from this exact model.
About the MacBook Air Retina 13-inch, 2020
The MacBook Air Retina 13-inch, 2020 (model number A2179, identifier MacBookAir9,1) uses an Intel Core i3/i5/i7 (10th generation, Ice Lake) and stores your data on flash storage soldered to the logic board. Because the storage is soldered to the logic board, the Mac itself has to work before the data can be read. The data is also encrypted by a security chip on the same board, so the original board is essential.
Data Doctor recovers data from the MacBook Air Retina 13-inch, 2020 at our London lab, whether it won’t start, has been damaged by liquid or has lost files after an update.
Identify this Mac
| Model | MacBook Air Retina 13-inch, 2020 |
|---|---|
| Model number | A2179 |
| Model identifier | MacBookAir9,1 |
| Apple part numbers | MVH22xx/A, MVH42xx/A, MVH52xx/A, MWTJ2xx/A, MWTK2xx/A, MWTL2xx/A |
| Processor | Intel Core i3/i5/i7 (10th generation, Ice Lake) |
| Storage | Flash storage soldered to the logic board |
| Encryption | Always encrypted by the Apple T2 security chip |
xx in the part number is the country code – UK models end in B/A (for example MVH22B/A). The model number is printed on the underside of the Mac. See the Apple tech specs for this model.
MacBook data recovery specialists
Common MacBook Air Retina 13-inch faults
- Liquid spills damaging charging and power components
- Not charging through USB-C
- T2 errors after a failed update
- Butterfly keyboard faults (2018–2019)
How we recover data from this model
The storage is soldered to the logic board and encrypted by the T2 chip on the same board, so the memory chips can’t be read anywhere else. We repair the original logic board so the Mac can start, then copy your data with your login password. A replacement board would mean the data is lost for good.
How it works
- Free initial consultation – tell us the model, what happened and whether FileVault was turned on.
- Diagnosis – we test the logic board or remove the SSD, depending on the model, and find the fault.
- Quote – you approve the price before any repair starts.
- Repair and extraction – we repair the board or read the SSD, then copy your data off the Mac.
- Return – your files are checked and copied to an external drive formatted for Mac.
Choose your Mac
Select your Mac to see models, part numbers, common faults and how we recover it.
Frequently asked questions
Can you recover data from a MacBook Air Retina 13-inch, 2020 that won’t turn on?
Often, yes. We repair the original logic board so the Mac can start, then copy the data using your login password. The data can’t be recovered from a replacement board.
How do I check I have this model?
Look for A2179 in the small print on the underside of the Mac, or choose About This Mac and check the name reads MacBook Air Retina 13-inch (Retina 13-inch, 2020). The model identifier is MacBookAir9,1.
How much does it cost?
The initial consultation is free. Logic board repairs are quoted after diagnosis, and you approve the price before any work starts.