MacBook and cheap in the same sentence It's not the norm, but supply chain leaks point to an Apple laptop with a knockdown price for the brand's brand. The idea that's taking shape is that of an entry-level device that would benefit from a refined design and a processor different from the usual Mac.
The movement would seek stand up to the affordable equipment on the market, especially to laptops for education and mid-rangea price below 700 euros and a more modest component list than the classic MacBook Air and Pro.
The project takes shape: leaks and sources
Various reports, citing Supply chain sources in Taiwan, agree that Apple has launched a plan for a more affordable MacBook. These reports follow up on previous predictions from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and information reported by media outlets such as Digitimes.
According to this information, the component manufacturing is expected to start in the third quarter of 2025, with full assembly planned for the end of the year. The roadmap fits with a marketing towards end of 2025 or, at the latest, early 2026.
In parallel, it is mentioned that Apple is considering a more vivid color palette than usual to differentiate this access line. There is no official confirmation about the tradename, although in the corridors there is talk of a possible Air range or even a hypothetical "Air SE".
All this draws a product with clear objectives: expand the macOS user base, strengthen share in the sub-700 euro segment and sustain the ecosystem with long-term service revenue.
Target price and positioning in the range
The most frequently repeated price range places this model between 599 and $ 699 in the United States. After taxes, estimates for Spain place it in a range of approximately 649-699 euros, far below the current MacBook Air.
With that figure, Apple It would target an audience that today buys entry-level Windows laptops., students and users who prioritize autonomy and simplicity versus raw power. The segmentation would be clear: A chips for everyday tasks and M chips for more demanding uses.
El hit of effect would be relevant in a section dominated by HP, Dell, Lenovo and other manufacturersIf the price is confirmed, the competition could be pushed to Improve proposals in design, autonomy and support.
Design and display: more compact format
The most consistent leaks speak of a 12,9 inch, somewhat more contained than the 13,6-inch MacBook Air. This size would contribute to reduce costs, keep weight under control and facilitate mobility.
A is expected slim chassis Apple style, with a focus on lightness and portability. There are no confirmations regarding ports, keyboard and other details, although it is reasonable to think of a minimal and careful configuration to maintain the target price.
The possible arrival of finishes with more vibrant colors point to a direct nod to the young public and the educational environment, where visual customization tends to be popular.
A18 Pro chip in a laptop: what performance to expect
The big news would be the jump to an Apple A18 Pro SoC instead of an M-series chip. This processor, related to the one in the iPhone 16 Pro, would have a six-core CPU and a latest-generation GPU, sufficient for browsing, office work, video calls and multimedia playback.
Compared to the M4/M5 chips in the most powerful Macs, the A18 Pro prioritizes energy efficiency and response in short tasks. In sustained loads and professional editing or 3D work, a lower performance than M series equipment.
- Ideal for: email, office suites, academic management, multi-tab browsing, streaming and light apps.
- Less advisable for: heavy workflows in 4K video editing, 3D rendering, local AI projects, or long builds.
By sharing architecture with Apple Silicon, the macOS optimization for ARM would play in favor of fluidity and autonomy. The final balance will depend, of course, from decisions such as passive/active cooling and sustained frequencies.
Schedule and what remains to be confirmed
La most repeated roadmap places the beginning of the component production in the third quarter of 2025 and the assembly of the complete team in the last part of the year. With that schedule, the Sales could begin in late 2025 or early 2026.
There are still significant unknowns to be resolved: memory and storage capacities, port configuration, display technologies and Comercial designation. All of these will influence the perceived value of the base model.
It should be noted that although the information is consistent across various sources, Apple has not made an official announcementUntil then, details may vary depending on the status of the project and last-minute decisions.
This model is emerging as a Budget MacBook with A18 Pro chip, 12,9-inch display, and focus on education, which could arrive between late 2025 and early 2026, offering a more affordable option for those considering a Mac for their next computer.
