Affordable MacBook Desired, with Power Source similar to iPhone
In a move that could shake up the laptop market, Apple is planning to release a new MacBook, marking the first time an iPhone chip will power a Mac. The device, expected to enter mass production in late Q4 2025 or early Q1 2026, is anticipated to launch in the first half of 2026 [2][3].
The new MacBook will feature a 13-inch display and will be available in vibrant colours such as silver, blue, pink, and yellow, making it a more accessible and personalised addition to the MacBook lineup. This shift in market positioning suggests that Apple aims to broaden its customer base and drive higher sales volumes, with the new model expected to account for 20–28% of MacBook sales in 2026 [3].
While the exact pricing details have not been officially disclosed, the emphasis on a low-cost MacBook combined with the use of the iPhone chip indicates it will likely be priced below the premium M4 and M5 MacBook models introduced for 2025. Previous entry-level MacBooks typically started around $999 to $1,299, so it is reasonable to expect a price in this range or slightly below to position it competitively [3].
The A18 Pro chip, currently at the top of the mobile food chain, is expected to handle the demands of macOS with ease, thanks to its impressive performance. This chip, which powers the iPhone 16 Pro, is no different from the M4 silicon inside Macs and iPads [2][3].
In a demonstration of the longevity of Apple laptops, a used or refurbished M1 MacBook Air can still run the full macOS Tahoe experience with no feature cuts, proving that Apple's laptops continue to perform well even after several years.
Apple is also planning to ship between 5-7 million units of the new MacBook in 2026, accounting for nearly a third of total laptop shipments. This ambitious goal underscores Apple's commitment to the MacBook lineup and its efforts to make computing more accessible to a wider audience.
In summary, the new MacBook is set to be a game-changer, offering an affordable, colourful, and high-performance option to consumers. With its anticipated launch in 2026, Apple fans and tech enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting this exciting development.
| Feature | Details | |-------------------------|--------------------------------------------| | Chipset | A18 Pro chip (from iPhone 16 Pro) | | Display Size | 13-inch | | Expected Launch Window | Late 2025 (mass production), early 2026 (release) | | Color Options | Silver, Blue, Pink, Yellow | | Market Positioning | Low-cost, affordable MacBook | | Expected Price Range | Likely below premium M-series MacBooks, around $999-$1,299 (estimation) |
The new MacBook, powered by the A18 Pro chip, will offer a 13-inch display in vibrant colors such as silver, blue, pink, and yellow, positioning it as an accessible and personalized addition to the MacBook lineup. This affordable, high-performance gadget is expected to be priced below the premium M4 and M5 MacBook models, with smartphone-inspired costs potentially starting around $999 to $1,299.
