Although its not clear exactly what it may be, Apple looks set to launch a new model of its MacBook which could signal its entry into the UMPC space.

Speculators are pointing to an Adium usage log report from January 9, that shows an entry for a "MacBook Air" that was made before the first inklings of such a name came out. Additionally, Macworld posters have been spotted with the phrase "there's something in the air" on them.

There seems to be considerable debate as to what the Air in the name could mean. Some think that the nomenclature has something to do with WiMAX compatibility, while others believe it could be in reference to power-by-induction.

Either is plausible: Intel has been said to have sent its WiMAX teams to Apple several months ago, and last year Apple patented the inductive power concept.

In perhaps the most extreme of the ideas as to what "Air" may mean, Macpredictions thinks that the device would be completely wireless, with induction charging, UWB, wireless USB.

So far AppleInsider, typically one of the first to jump on rumors such as this, has remained uncharacteristically silent on any speculation.