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Apple is expected to release an affordable MacBook with the A18 Pro chip. The same chip is to be available in iPhone 16 Pro. According to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, mass production of Apple MacBook would start late 2025 or early 2026.
The estimated shipment is 5 million to 7 million units in the first year. The idea is to attract a broader range of users looking for affordable Apple laptops.
Processor: Apple A18 Pro (as opposed to M-series chip)
Display: 13-inch panel, like an Apple MacBook Air
Performance: Similar to the Apple M1 chip
Estimated Geekbench Scores: ~3500 (single-core), ~8780 (multi-core)
Design: Aluminum body, in possible silver, pink, and yellow
Launch Window: Late 2025 or early 2026
Even though the price was not officially disclosed by Apple, the new MacBook is speculated by the industry to retail under $799 (approx. ₹66,000). If true, this would mean one big shift, as Apple has never launched a MacBook anywhere below $999 (approx. ₹82,000).
This would substantially place this Apple MacBook in competition with education and budget-centric markets dominated by Chromebooks and Windows entry-level laptops.
It would be the first Apple MacBook to abandon legacy M-series processors. That suggests there is an emphasis on efficiency and expense. For its purpose and users, A18 Pro is optimized for mobility and offers performance for general compute usage.
This includes web surfing, content consumption, document editing, and probably lightweight media creation. Its reduced power consumption can also possibly increase battery life and make it run cooler.
With attractive color selections, strong performance specifications, and a lower price point, Apple's A18-powered MacBook may become Apple's most accessible laptop yet. If it comes in under $799, that waives the price override for millions of new users. This would reinforce Apple’s position in the budget and education market.
