Katarzyna Petru
Apple is preparing for 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 meant to reach a wide audience and serve as an alternative to Chromebooks and inexpensive 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 intriguing 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, yet still efficient for everyday applications. The new model - with the codename J700 - is expected to cost below 1000 dollars, making it the cheapest MacBook in history. Apple envisions it as the perfect device for studying, office work, video conferencing, or watching movies, while still providing full support for the macOS system.
Smaller screen, simpler design
The new MacBook is set to be the smallest laptop Apple offers – 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 expected to be simpler and lighter.
All of this will allow the company to offer a more mobile and affordable device, aimed primarily at 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 previously 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 that's where Apple aims to strengthen its position. Mark Gurman from Bloomberg emphasizes that the company plans to position this computer as a alternative to the iPad with the Magic Keyboard, while offering a full-fledged macOS.
Colorful MacBook in iMac Style
Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that the new MacBook may come in several color variants – including silver, blue, pink, and yellow. The inspiration is said to be the iMac line, which attracts the attention of younger users.
It's a way to combine a modern look with accessibility – and to add lightness and character to the product, which Apple is known for 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 in the lineup for more demanding users. In 2026, Apple 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 developers.
MacBook SE? A New Chapter in Apple's Strategy
More and more often, the term "MacBook SE" is appearing – a name that would perfectly fit Apple's philosophy. The company has been using the SE suffix for its cheaper devices for years, such as the iPhone SE and Apple Watch SE.
If the plans are confirmed, a launch in 2026 could mean a new direction for Apple computers – affordable, colorful, and aimed at users who previously refrained from getting MacBooks due to their price.
Apple is entering completely new territory. An affordable MacBook with the A18 Pro processor could be 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 is shaping up to be particularly interesting – not only for Apple fans but for the entire laptop industry.
