Apple’s budget MacBook is coming
Apple is reportedly developing a more affordable MacBook, potentially equipped with the A18 Pro chip, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The new laptop could launch in late 2025 or early 2026 in colors similar to the entry-level iPad.
The speculated device is expected to feature a 13-inch display. Production is predicted to begin either in the fourth quarter of this year or the first quarter of 2026. Pricing estimates place the new entry-level MacBook between $699 and $799. Apple might reduce costs by offering 8GB of RAM as a base configuration.
Potential feature reductions to achieve the lower price point may include the removal of an additional USB-C port, Touch ID, Center Stage webcam, and reduced battery capacity.
Apple finally joins the Threads party
The absence of Touch ID could be a significant drawback for some users. Currently, the base model M4 iMac does not include a Touch ID keyboard.
The value of the device will depend on the final pricing and features. Currently, the M4 MacBook Air is on sale for $849, and clearance M3 MacBook Air models have been seen for as low as $699. All MacBook Air models now start with 16GB of RAM.
Apple offers education discounts, typically $50 to $100, potentially lowering the starting price for students to between $599 and $749.
The primary competition for this new MacBook could come from retailers offering discounts on previous MacBook Air models. Kuo projects Apple will sell 5-7 million units of this MacBook in 2026.