Apple Reportedly Developing a Cheaper MacBook Powered by an iPhone Chip

Apple Is Reportedly Building a Budget MacBook with an iPhone Chip

Apple is developing a low-cost Mac laptop powered by an iPhone processor, according to a new report from Bloomberg. The new model is expected to launch in the first half of 2026 and will target students, casual users, and businesses seeking an affordable entry into the Mac ecosystem.

The laptop is said to cost “well under $1,000”, a major departure from Apple’s traditional Mac pricing. This model could become the company’s most affordable MacBook since the discontinuation of the 12-inch MacBook line.

A Smaller, More Affordable MacBook Design

According to Bloomberg, the upcoming laptop will feature a lower-end LCD display that’s slightly smaller than the 13.6-inch screen found on the current MacBook Air.

Its price is expected to fall within the same range as the entry-level iPad and Magic Keyboard Folio combo, which currently sells for around $600.

This new device could position Apple as a direct competitor to budget Windows laptops and Chromebooks, especially in education markets.

Powered by an iPhone Chip Instead of M-Series

Unlike current Macs, which all run on Apple’s M-series chips, this new laptop will reportedly use an A-series processor — the same family of chips that power iPhones.

Apple’s internal testing reportedly found that the iPhone chip can outperform the M1, the company’s first Mac-optimized chip used in laptops as recently as 2020.

This shift could mark the beginning of a dual-chip strategy, with A-series chips for low-cost Macs and M-series chips for premium models.

A New Design and Color Options

Bloomberg’s report mentions that the new model will feature an “entirely new design,” rather than reusing the current MacBook Air or Pro chassis.

Renowned supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has also suggested that the laptop will come in several colors, including silver, blue, pink, and yellow — similar to the iPhone 16 Pro palette.

This could make the new MacBook more appealing to younger consumers and students, blending Apple’s design aesthetics with a more playful and accessible price point.

Target Market: Students and Businesses

Apple’s new low-cost Mac will reportedly cater to students, small business owners, and general consumers who need an affordable device for web browsing, office tasks, and multimedia use.

The move also suggests Apple’s renewed focus on the education sector, where Chromebooks have dominated for years thanks to their affordability and simplicity.

This strategy could help Apple regain market share in schools and universities while introducing more users to its software ecosystem.

The Next Generation of MacBook Air and Pro

Alongside the budget Mac, Apple has reportedly completed development on a new MacBook Air powered by the M5 chip, scheduled for release early next year.

Additionally, Apple is said to be working on MacBook Pro models equipped with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, which will target professional and creative users who require higher performance.

This means Apple will soon offer two parallel product paths:

• M-series Macs for high-end users.

• A-series Macs for affordability and portability.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When will the new affordable MacBook launch?
Apple plans to release it in the first half of 2026, according to Bloomberg.

2. What chip will it use?
The laptop is expected to feature the A18 Pro chip, currently used in the iPhone 16 Pro series.

3. How much will it cost?
It’s expected to sell for under $1,000, likely in the $600–$800 range.

4. Who is this MacBook designed for?
Primarily for students, casual users, and small businesses seeking a budget-friendly Apple laptop.

5. Will Apple continue producing M-series Macs?
Yes. The new M5 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models are already in development for 2025.