Apple is reportedly developing a more affordable MacBook, potentially integrating the A18 Pro chip, with a launch expected in late 2025 or early 2026. This move signifies Apple's intention to broaden its reach, appealing to a wider audience with a competitively priced and powerful device.
Processor and Performance
The new MacBook is rumored to be powered by the A18 Pro chip, the same processor found in the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. This would mark the first time Apple has used an A-series chip, typically found in iPhones and iPads, in a Mac. To date, all Apple Silicon Macs have used M-series chips, which generally offer higher core counts, support for larger amounts of memory and better external display support. While traditionally used in mobile devices, the A18 Pro is expected to deliver performance comparable to the M1 chip for CPU tasks, along with enhanced graphics capabilities.
The single-core performance of the A18 Pro chip is expected to be only slightly behind the M4 chip found in the Mac mini. While there is a more significant gap in multi-core performance, for many average Mac users, the difference might not be noticeable. Many everyday computing tasks remain primarily single-core bound. The A18's multi-core score is expected to rival the original M1 chip from 2020, which still offers adequate performance for many users.
Design and Features
The affordable MacBook is expected to feature a 13-inch display. It may come in colors similar to the entry-level iPad, including silver, blue, pink, and yellow. To achieve a lower price point, Apple might reduce costs by offering 8GB of RAM as a base configuration. Other potential feature reductions could include the removal of an additional USB-C port, Touch ID, Center Stage webcam, and reduced battery capacity. It is also unlikely to feature Thunderbolt ports or support for more than one external display. Apple could also re-use the design and chassis of an older machine like the M1 MacBook Air to keep costs down.
Pricing and Market Position
The new entry-level MacBook is speculated to be priced between $699 and $799. This positions it as one of the most affordable laptops in Apple's lineup, potentially opening the door for a wider range of consumers to enter the Apple ecosystem. Apple is aiming to attract younger or budget-conscious consumers. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo projects Apple will sell 5-7 million units of this MacBook in 2026.
The current entry-level MacBook is the M1 MacBook Air, which is exclusively sold at Walmart for $649. The new MacBook could fill the gap left by the discontinued M1 MacBook Air, offering a modern alternative for budget-conscious consumers. The primary competition for this new MacBook could come from retailers offering discounts on previous MacBook Air models.
Strategic Implications
The introduction of a more affordable MacBook powered by an A-series chip could have significant implications for Apple's product strategy. It could allow Apple to better compete with Chromebooks and Windows-based laptops in the budget segment of the market. The success of this new MacBook will depend on its price and how much cheaper it is than the MacBook Air to justify any performance differences.
