Rumour: Apple will soon launch an affordable MacBook

Could Apple compete with Chromebooks?

An affordable MacBook could shake up Apple's notebook portfolio and redefine the entry point into the Mac world. While the MacBook Air has been considered the most affordable model to date, recent leaks point to a completely new device expected to be priced well below the previous entry-level threshold. This ultra-thin, lightweight, 12.9-inch notebook could surprise us not only with its price but also with its design and technical features. Initial reports from the supply chain suggest that Apple is changing course with the aim of regaining market share in the highly competitive affordable laptop segment.

The affordable MacBook – Apple could break new price records

For a long time, the idea of an affordable MacBook seemed like a pipe dream to many users. In recent years, Apple has consistently priced its MacBook models at the high end of the spectrum. The entry-level price started at around $1,000 plus tax, with the MacBook Air model being the cheapest option. However, there are growing indications that Apple is planning a radical move downmarket.

According to recent reports, the starting price could be between $599 and $699. Even considering currency and tax adjustments, this would mean an entry price in Europe of around €850 to €950 – a range Apple has avoided for years.

Such a price tag would have a significant impact, both symbolically and practically, and could increase Apple's market share in the highly competitive notebook sector. This appears to be a direct response to Windows notebooks' and Chromebooks' dominance in the lower price range. For several months, rumors have circulated that Apple is planning a new entry-level model, possibly inspired by the compact 12-inch MacBook that was in its lineup between 2015 and 2017.

Production and possible launch date

According to sources in Apple's supply chain, mass production of the new model will begin in the third quarter of 2025. This would allow for a market launch at the end of 2025 or early 2026. Interestingly, Apple apparently sees no direct connection between this low-cost MacBook and the upcoming MacBook Pro models with M5 chips.

A fall release would make strategic sense as Apple is planning to release new iPads during this period, including an iPad Pro with an M5 processor. Having two major hardware launches could maximize attention and boost sales of both tablets and notebooks. According to reports, Apple plans to order up to 7 million units per year, which shows the high priority this project apparently enjoys internally. This could increase total MacBook production by up to 40 percent — a clear signal of greater market penetration.

Technical specifications and design features

The technical specifications suggest that Apple is seeking to strike a balance between reducing the price and maintaining brand identity. The affordable MacBook is expected to feature a 12.9-inch screen, putting it in direct competition with the largest iPads. At its heart is the A18 Pro chip, which is currently used in the iPhone 16 Pro.

Using an iPhone processor in a MacBook is not a new strategy for Apple. At the beginning of the Apple Silicon era, the company used similar system on a chip (SoC) technology in developer machines to facilitate the transition to its own architecture.

According to analyst reports, Apple is planning an ultra-thin, lightweight case that will be available in several colors. In addition to the classic silver and blue, pink and yellow will reportedly be available as well. Notably, Thunderbolt support is not planned. Instead, Apple is relying on USB-C ports only – a detail reminiscent of earlier MacBook generations, which also featured minimalist port configurations.

Market positioning and outlook

An affordable MacBook priced at nearly half the cost of the previous entry-level model could transform the notebook market. For Apple, this would be an opportunity to not only motivate existing customers to purchase a second device but also reach new target groups who have previously chosen alternatives due to high prices. Competition with Chromebooks and low-cost Windows laptops will likely intensify, especially since Apple scores points with macOS, long update support, and stable hardware-software integration.

The question remains whether Apple can maintain the balance between low costs and its usual high-quality standards. If so, the affordable MacBook could be one of the most significant releases in recent years, not only due to its pricing, but also as a strategic milestone that redefines Apple's role in the lower-price segment.

Frequently asked questions

When will the affordable MacBook be released?

Mass production is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with a market launch anticipated for late 2025 or early 2026.

What processor will the budget MacBook use?

The affordable MacBook is expected to feature the A18 Pro chip, which is currently used in the iPhone 16 Pro, rather than Apple's traditional M-series processors.

How much will the budget MacBook cost?

Reports suggest a starting price between $599 and $699, making it significantly cheaper than the current MacBook Air which starts at $999.

What colors will be available?

The budget MacBook is expected to come in silver, blue, pink, and yellow color options.

Will it have Thunderbolt support?

No, the affordable MacBook is expected to feature USB-C ports only, without Thunderbolt support to help reduce costs.

What screen size will it have?

The device is expected to feature a 12.9-inch display, making it slightly smaller than the current MacBook Air's 13.6-inch screen.