A:AnswerYes it does, I just measured it myself to be sure and it is indeed 12 7/8" tall from counter surface to top of Microwave. The specification for the height is correct and takes into account the plastic legs.
A:AnswerThat seems to be a design defect of recent GE brand microwaves — very annoying.
The inside light is also pathetically dim and orange looking, as if a 230V bulb were being used on this 120V appliance. It's also a traditional incandescent filament bulb, which is downright strange in this era of LED lighting.
