Apple is set to make a strategic shift in its hardware offering as it prepares to launch its first affordable MacBook, designed to compete in the entry-level notebook segment. The new apparatus, planned for 2026, will include a iPhone processor and cheaper components, according to Mark Gurman, a tech industry leak expert.
The main goal is to attract students, casual users and companies looking for affordable solutions for everyday tasks and basic multimedia editing, as well as to attract customers from Chromebooks in windows.
According to Gurman, the new Mac is in development under the code name J700 and is already in internal testing and initial production with overseas suppliers. This device will be the first from Apple to integrate an iPhone chip instead of the M series processors specially designed for computers. Internal tests have shown that the performance of the mobile chip exceeds that of the M1, which was used in laptops a few years ago.
Apple’s approach will not be to directly compete with the most expensive models or premium devices, but to place its product in the sub-US$1000 price range.
A budget MacBook will have a smaller LCD screen (less than 13.6 inches), which will also lower costs. At the design level, priority will be given to durability and portability, two crucial factors for the educational segment and users seeking mobility efficiency.
Apple has already indirectly tested such positioning in the past with discounts on The MacBook Air M1 hit the market for less than $700 at stores like Walmart. However, the new launch will be a completely different model and not a discounted reissue of previous generations.
Gurman’s report highlights that Apple aims to directly challenge the Chromebook ecosystem, which dominates the school and education environment due to its low cost and ease of use. Chromebooks start at much lower prices and have managed to attract students and schools, a segment that Apple is trying to win back.
In addition, the arrival of Windows 11 and the challenges of upgrading older hardware allow PC users to consider moving to macOS if the hardware is available at competitive prices.
Currently the cheapest MacBook in the an applethe Air M4 model, has a base price of $999 (or $899 with a student discount). The new device aims to position itself below this figure and even compete with the current configuration iPad cheaper next to the Magic Keyboard, offering more autonomy, the flexibility of macOS and an already integrated keyboard.
According to published data, Apple’s laptop market has grown significantly, with a year-over-year growth of 13% and sales of $8.73 billion in the last quarter. However, growth rates are expected to slow, which reinforces the need to expand the range with more affordable and versatile alternatives.
Apple offers different types Mac computersadapted to the different needs and preferences of users. The MacBook Air is a lightweight laptop focused on portability and energy efficiency, while the MacBook Pro provides more processing power, advanced graphics performance, and better capabilities for video editing, graphic design, and software development professionals.
In the desktop computer range, Apple offers the iMac, an all-in-one computer with a large screen and a stylish design, ideal for the home or creative studio.
For users who need even more capacity, there’s Mac Studio, designed for demanding professional tasks, and Mac Pro, a workstation with expandability and enterprise-grade performance.
