Apple is preparing to enter the low-cost laptop segment, according to a new Bloomberg report. The company is said to be working on a more affordable MacBook aimed at competing with a crowded market of capable and budget-friendly PCs and Chromebooks.
While Apple has traditionally focused on high-end devices with premium price tags, the tech giant appears ready to broaden its lineup. The goal is to appeal to a wider range of consumers — particularly those unwilling to spend more than $1,500 for a MacBook Pro.
A MacBook Priced “Well Under $1,000”
Bloomberg’s report suggests the new model will cost significantly less than Apple’s current laptops, potentially “well under $1,000.” Apple plans to keep production costs down and maintain healthy margins by using lower-tier components.
Instead of an M-series chip, the budget MacBook will reportedly feature an iPhone processor paired with a lower-end LCD display. The device is also expected to be smaller than the 13.6-inch MacBook Air — possibly falling between 11.6 and 13.6 inches, a range Apple previously explored with the 12-inch MacBook released in 2015.
Power in a Compact Package
Performance, however, may not be a major concern. According to Bloomberg, internal testing shows that the iPhone chip powering this new laptop outperforms the M1 processor used in earlier MacBook models.
That said, the machine likely won’t match the performance of Apple’s latest M-series devices, but this compromise may not matter to its target audience. For cost-conscious users focused on everyday computing rather than pro-level workloads, the balance between price and performance could be just right.
If Apple truly wants to rival top-end Chromebooks, analysts suggest a price range between $600 and $700 would make the product especially appealing.
Lessons from Past “Budget” Efforts
Apple has a mixed track record when it comes to lower-cost products. Devices such as the iPhone mini series, while well-reviewed, did not achieve mass-market success. However, the laptop market could present a different opportunity, especially with growing demand for affordable, high-quality notebooks among students and casual users.
More Macs on the Horizon
Beyond this rumored budget MacBook, Apple has several updates planned for its Mac lineup. The company is expected to unveil a new M5-powered MacBook Air, as well as refreshed versions of the Mac mini and Mac Studio in the coming months. This follows the recent release of the latest MacBook Pro featuring Apple’s new M5 chip.
If the affordable MacBook does come to market next year, Apple could redefine what a “budget” laptop looks like — and potentially open the Mac ecosystem to a whole new audience.
