Apple is reportedly preparing to enter the budget laptop market with a lower-cost MacBook, expected to be released in the first half of next year. According to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the new MacBook could become Apple’s most affordable laptop so far, aiming to attract users who usually choose Chromebooks or entry-level Windows PCs.
For years, Apple has maintained premium pricing across its MacBook lineup, with current entry models starting around $999. However, this upcoming device is said to break that trend by introducing a cheaper alternative for students, casual users, and everyday computing needs.
The budget MacBook is expected to run on an iPhone chip instead of Apple’s high-performance M-series processors. While this means the laptop won’t be suitable for heavy workloads or high-end creative tasks, it should handle web browsing, note-taking, and video streaming efficiently. The chip could also help provide strong battery life.
The device may feature a smaller screen and use a basic LCD panel instead of the advanced mini-LED or OLED displays found in higher-end models. Gurman also noted that the MacBook will come with a completely new design, though Apple is still expected to maintain its recognizable metal build quality.
The laptop is rumored to be priced around $600, placing it in direct competition with Chromebooks and affordable Windows machines. In comparison, Apple already offers the iPad with Magic Keyboard Folio in the same price range, but the new MacBook would give users the full macOS experience with a built-in keyboard and laptop form factor.
Industry reports suggest that if production and testing proceed smoothly, the device could debut in 2026. If launched, it would mark Apple’s first major move into the budget laptop category, potentially expanding its user base among students, educators, and everyday consumers looking for a reliable but affordable MacBook option.
