For people, new to the Mac (which make up half of all Mac sales), who don't go hunting for refurbs or want to buy used gear, and where a $1099 price point is cost prohibitive.
Basically every regular computer user who shops at Amazon or Costco.
You can buy a brand new M1 Air at Walmart for $650.
You can buy a brand new M1 Air at Walmart for $650.