Apple’s plans for an affordable MacBook have been swirling in rumors for months, and now new reports suggest production is about to begin. The entry-level MacBook, powered by the A18 Pro chip is expected to shake up Apple’s laptop lineup by offering a price below the traditional $999 starting point.
Production Update and Expected Launch
According to a recent DigiTimes supply chain report, key components for this low-cost MacBook are slated to enter production as early as next month. Full system assembly could ramp up by the end of 2025, pointing toward a likely early 2026 release date.
Apple is preparing to shake up the notebook market with an all-new ultra-low-cost MacBook, according to supply chain sources. Some components are expected to enter mass production by the end of the third quarter of 2025, a schedule that could see full system assembly begin before the end of the year.
Pricing rumors suggest the new MacBook could start at $699, with education discounts possibly lowering that to around $599, which is a significant shift aimed at budget-conscious buyers and students. However, the DigiTimes report has called it at USD 599.
What We Know So Far
This new MacBook would use the A18 Pro chip instead of Apple’s usual M-series processors. Benchmarks indicate that the A18 Pro offers solid multi-core and single-core performance that can rival older M1 models, making it more than capable for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media consumption.
Related: Spotted: New MacBook with iPhone A18 Pro Chip in Apple Code!
Colorful design options like silver, pink, and yellow are also rumored, which would add a fresh, playful element to the MacBook lineup.
Looking Ahead
While the low-cost MacBook rumor isn’t new, the latest DigiTimes report adds credibility with its production timeline update. Apple could officially announce or release the device early next year, opening up new choices for consumers seeking Apple’s ecosystem at a more affordable price.
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