Apple is reportedly developing its most affordable MacBook yet, priced at around $599 (~₹52,000), powered by the A18 Pro chip from the iPhone 16 Pro. If launched, this device would mark Apple’s boldest step into the budget laptop market, targeting consumers who have so far gravitated towards Chromebooks and entry-level Windows PCs.
Why an Entry-Level MacBook Now?
While the MacBook Air has historically been Apple’s lower-cost laptop option, its price has crept up over the years. In India, the base Air costs ₹99,900, creating a gap in Apple’s lineup for budget-conscious buyers. A ₹52,000–₹60,000 MacBook could significantly expand Apple’s reach, especially among students, casual users, and first-time Mac owners.
Performance Tradeoffs with the A18 Pro Chip
The use of the A18 Pro chip is a departure from Apple’s M-series processors, which have been praised for laptop-level performance and power efficiency. The A18 Pro is a smartphone chip — powerful for mobile tasks but not designed for heavy, sustained workloads like video editing or 3D rendering.
That said, for everyday tasks such as browsing, streaming, and document editing, the A18 Pro could be more than sufficient, making the device a compelling option for basic computing needs.
Expected Features and Design
Leaks suggest the new MacBook will feature:
- 12.9-inch display, slightly smaller than the MacBook Air’s 13.6-inch screen
- Ultra-thin chassis
- Multiple colors, including silver, blue, pink, and yellow
These choices hint at Apple’s strategy to make the device attractive to younger buyers and students, similar to its approach with the colorful iMac and iPad lines.
Production Timeline and Market Impact
Mass production is expected to start by late Q3 2025, with an official launch likely in 2026. If successful, this MacBook could disrupt the budget laptop segment by offering Apple’s build quality, macOS ecosystem, and design appeal at a price point previously unseen in its laptop lineup.
However, much will depend on how Apple positions the device — balancing performance limitations with competitive pricing to lure users away from established low-cost options.
60-Word Summary:
Apple is rumored to be developing a $599 (~₹52,000) entry-level MacBook powered by the iPhone 16 Pro’s A18 Pro chip. With a 12.9-inch display, colorful ultra-thin design, and lower price, it targets budget buyers and students. Mass production is expected in late 2025, with a 2026 launch, challenging Chromebooks and entry-level Windows laptops.
