Budget MacBook launches

Apple reportedly plans a 12.9-inch budget MacBook powered by the A18 Pro chip with a sub $600 price and a late 2025 to early 2026 release window.

Apple targets budget MacBook starting at 599 dollars

Apple is reportedly developing a 12.9-inch budget MacBook that uses the A18 Pro chip and could start near 599 dollars. Market observers DigiTimes and analyst Ming-Chi Kuo point to mass production in late 2025, with a product that would have USB-C ports and no Thunderbolt. The device is described as lighter and slim, available in several finishes, and assembled at Quanta before it goes to market.

Industry projections estimate annual shipments of 5 to 7 million units, a move that could lift Apple's overall MacBook volume and broaden the brand’s reach beyond premium models. The report also notes a cost-focused strategy aimed at competing with Chromebooks and other low-cost laptops, signaling a shift in how Apple sizes its ecosystem around affordable access.

The plan marks a clear shift toward price-based segmentation for Apple. By using the A18 Pro, Apple tries to bring iPhone-level efficiency to a laptop and cut costs, potentially attracting new customers who value value over premium features. This approach could reshape the balance between performance and price for Apple, and it may shift the expectations of users who want robust ports and expandability.

If the price holds near 599 dollars, the mix of features and ports will be crucial. A price-led strategy can widen the market, but it risks alienating some power users who rely on Thunderbolt and higher-end performance. The outcome will depend on software support, battery life, and the real-world experience of students, families, and budget shoppers who are new to the Mac ecosystem.

Highlights

Market reaction will reveal whether price alone can redefine Apple’s laptop lineup.