This claim, first made in June by renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, known for his close ties to Apple, has been confirmed by the Taiwanese technology publication DigiTimes. According to reports, Apple plans to significantly increase its market share with this new model by specifically targeting the education sector and users seeking budget-friendly devices.
The Affordable MacBook Will Shake Up the Market
The most exciting part of the leaks is undoubtedly the price tag. DigiTimes suggests that the new MacBook will be priced between $599 and $699. This represents a revolutionary discount compared to Apple’s current most affordable laptop, the $999 13-inch MacBook Air. This pricing could directly position Apple as an aggressive player in a segment dominated by Chromebooks and affordable Windows models.
At the heart of this affordable model is a first for a Mac. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the device will use the A18 Pro chip, introduced with the iPhone 16 Pro last year, instead of the M-series chips. This marks the first time Apple will use iPhone chips in a Mac.
Other notable technical specifications and design details include:
Display: A 12.9-inch display, slightly more compact than the MacBook Air’s 13.6-inch display.
Design: The model, expected to feature an ultra-thin and lightweight chassis, is expected to come in vibrant colors such as Silver, Blue, Pink, and Yellow.
Connectivity: Due to its architecture, the A18 Pro chip is expected to lack Thunderbolt support, instead featuring standard USB-C ports. This may not be a major obstacle for the target market looking for an affordable price.
According to sources, some components of the device are expected to enter mass production by the end of the third quarter of 2025. Final assembly is scheduled to begin at Quanta’s facilities in the last quarter of 2025. Based on this timeline, the affordable MacBook is likely to hit shelves in late 2025 or early 2026.
Market analysts estimate this model could reach annual sales of between 5 and 7 million units. This could significantly increase Apple’s current MacBook shipment volume by 30-40%, potentially driving overall sales.
This move by Apple signals a significant shift in strategy for the brand known for its premium products. If the rumors are true, the tech giant will not only expand its product line but also reshape the entire laptop market.
