Katarzyna Petru
Apple is preparing to make a move that few expected. According to the latest information, the company from Cupertino is working on a completely new, cheaper MacBook – a device that is set to reach a wide range of users and serve as an alternative to Chromebooks and cheap Windows laptops.
MacBook with an iPhone Processor – Apple's First Move of its Kind
According to Bloomberg, the new MacBook is set to debut in the first half of 2026. The most interesting element is its heart – the A18 Pro processor, known from the iPhone 16 Pro. This is the first time Apple will use a chip from the A series in a laptop.
Instead of using chips from the M series (like M1, M2, or M4), the manufacturer will opt for a solution that is much cheaper to produce but still efficient for everyday tasks. The new model – codenamed J700 – is expected to cost under 1000 dollars, making it the cheapest MacBook in history. Apple intends for this to be a device perfect for studying, office work, video conferencing, or watching films while also providing full support for the macOS system.
Smaller screen, simpler design
The new MacBook is to be the smallest Apple laptop in the range – its screen will be smaller than 13.6 inches, which is less than the current MacBook Air. Instead of the more expensive OLED or mini-LED, there will be a LCD screen, and the device's design is intended to be simpler and lighter.
All this will allow the company to offer a more mobile and affordable device, aimed primarily at pupils, students, and users who need a lightweight computer for working on the go.
Competition for Chromebooks and cheap Windows laptops
Apple is clearly targeting a segment that it has so far avoided. The new MacBook with the A18 Pro processor is set to directly compete with Chromebooks and budget Windows notebooks.
These devices are popular in schools and educational environments – and this is exactly where Apple aims to strengthen its position. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg emphasises that the company plans to position this computer as a replacement for the iPad with the Magic Keyboard, while offering a fully-fledged macOS.
Colourful MacBook in the style of iMac
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that the new MacBook may appear in several colour variants – including silver, blue, pink, and yellow. The inspiration is said to be the iMac line, which attracts the attention of younger users.
This is a way to combine a modern look with accessibility – and to add a sense of lightness and character to the product, which Apple has been known for over the years.
Not for professionals – and not instead of Air or Pro
The new, cheaper MacBook will not replace the current Air and Pro models. These will still remain available for more demanding users. In 2026, Apple indeed plans to refresh the MacBook Air and Pro, equipping them with M5 chips, and later with even more powerful M6 Pro and M6 Max.
This means that the line of Mac computers will become even more diverse – from budget models for students to professional machines for creators and programmers.
MacBook SE? A New Chapter in Apple's Strategy
The term “MacBook SE” is becoming increasingly common – a name that would perfectly fit Apple's philosophy. The company has been using the SE suffix for its more affordable devices for years, such as the iPhone SE and the Apple Watch SE.
If the plans are confirmed, a launch in 2026 could signify a new direction for Apple computers – accessible, colourful, and aimed at users who have not previously reached for MacBooks due to their price.
Apple is entering entirely new territory. An affordable MacBook with the A18 Pro processor could mark the beginning of a new era in the company’s offerings – laptops that are more affordable, lightweight, and energy-efficient, while still providing the full macOS experience.
The first half of 2026 therefore promises to be particularly interesting – not just for Apple fans, but for the entire laptop industry.
