Written By Divya
Edited By: Divya | Published By: Divya | Published: Aug 12, 2025, 11:22 PM (IST)
If Apple’s MacBook has always been on the pricier side for you, then know tech giant may soon bring an affordable option. Apple may soon expand its MacBook lineup with a new, more affordable model. According to a recent report by DigiTimes, the company is working on a 12.9-inch MacBook that could start at $599. If we translate it into the Indian currency, then the upcoming affordable MacBook may cost around just Rs 52,000! Also Read: Samsung Beats Apple! World’s First 2nm Mobile Exynos 2600 Chip Is Here, Galaxy S26 Series Likely to Get It
If the pricing holds true, it would be Apple’s cheapest MacBook in years. It is expected to be aimed at those who want the Mac experience without spending close to a thousand dollars. Also Read: iPhone Fold Launch Is Coming In 2026, But It Could Be Available To You In 2027; Here's Why
Instead of Apple’s M-series chips, this upcoming MacBook is expected to run on the A18 Pro, which is the same processor used in the iPhone 16 Pro. Not just the first cheapest MacBook, this would also make it the first Mac to use an iPhone chip. While it won’t match the performance of the latest MacBook Air models, it is expected to support Apple Intelligence features, bringing AI tools to the entry-level MacBook market. Also Read: Apple iPhone 18 Pro Could Drop Dynamic Island, Get Mechanical Camera Upgrade
The display is also said to measure 12.9 inches, slightly smaller than the 13.6-inch MacBook Air. That size reduction could also mean a lighter device, potentially making it more portable. However, due to the same, you might see a lower resolution and brightness compared to higher-end models.
Based on the previous leaks, it may launch in four colour options like Silver, Blue, Pink, and Yellow. Ports could be limited to standard USB-C, since the A18 Pro doesn’t support Thunderbolt.
As mentioned before, the rumoured budget MacBook could start at $599 and may go to $699. Not just that, the educational discounts may even cost it under $599, the reports suggested. Some components are expected to enter production by the end of this year, which could mean a launch in late 2025 or early 2026.
However, the lower price may come with compromises in storage, RAM, and display quality. Still, for many, the balance between price and performance could make it an appealing option.