Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes Apple is preparing to launch a more affordable MacBook down the line. What’s interesting about his prediction is that, instead of featuring a lower-end M-series chip, the supposedly upcoming model may come with an A18 Pro – the same processor powering the brand’s iPhone 16 Pro series.
In a post on his official X account, Kuo claims that production for this entry-level MacBook could begin as early as late 2025 or during the beginning of 2026. The device is said to feature a 13-inch display, similar to the current MacBook Air, with few noticeable differences in hardware aside from the chip. Apple may also offer it in a variety of colours; including silver, pink, and yellow.
While pricing details remain unclear, Apple is reportedly targeting 5 to 7 million units in 2026, suggesting a notably low price point aimed at driving high-volume sales. If accurate, this would mark Apple’s first true entry-level MacBook.
Based on Kuo’s suggestion, this particular model won’t be suited for demanding tasks, such as video editing. Despite which, the A18 Pro should be more than capable of handling everyday applications like word processing and web browsing. In that sense, it could serve as Apple’s answer to Chromebooks – lightweight, student-friendly laptops for the education sector.
Meanwhile, a separate report by 9to5Mac is suggesting that Apple may be gearing up to launch its updated MacBook Pro and iPad Pro models later this year. Both will feature the yet-to-be-announced M5 chip, and are expected to launch between late September and late December this year.
(Source: Ming-Chi Kuo, via X)
