Apple may soon shake up the laptop market with one of the most exciting upcoming MacBook updates in recent years—a lightweight MacBook priced as low as $599. The rumored model is said to feature the powerful A18 Pro chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 16 Pro, offering a unique blend of performance and affordability.
If confirmed, this MacBook could become a game-changer for users looking to ditch Windows 10 or find one of the best budget MacBook alternatives.
A Budget MacBook with iPhone Power?
According to multiple reports, including insider information from DigiTimes and veteran Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple is developing a new, more affordable MacBook that could hit shelves by late 2025 or early 2026. Instead of the usual M-series chip, this laptop will reportedly run on the A18 Pro—Apple’s latest mobile chip designed for the iPhone 16 Pro.
Pricing is expected to range between $599 and $699, a major drop from the $999 starting price of the current M4 MacBook Air. This could position Apple to directly compete with mid-range portable Windows laptops as well.
The move is also well-timed, as Microsoft officially ended Windows 10 support on October 14, 2025. With millions of PC users now looking for replacements, a $599 MacBook could be the perfect entry point for those who want to switch ecosystems or avoid the bloat of Windows 11.
Slim Design, Big Impact
DigiTimes reports that the upcoming MacBook will feature a 12.9-inch display—slightly smaller than the 13-inch MacBook Air. This aligns with Kuo’s earlier leaks, suggesting the device is in sync with Apple’s broader hardware strategy.
Mass production is rumored to begin in Q3 2025, with availability potentially in the last quarter of the year—just in time for the holiday shopping season and the post-Windows 10 transition period.
In addition to performance, Apple is expected to shake up the aesthetic. The budget MacBook could be available in an array of bold colors, including Pink, Blue, Silver, and Yellow—offering something far more playful than the standard MacBook palette.
What’s the Catch?
Despite the exciting features and pricing, there are trade-offs. MacRumors highlights that the A18 Pro chip may lack Thunderbolt support. That means the upcoming MacBook may rely on standard USB-C ports, which limits capabilities like high-speed data transfers or connecting multiple external displays—features many professionals value.
Still, for students, casual users, and anyone looking for best budget MacBook alternatives, this machine could be a sweet spot of price, power, and portability.
And for those who still want options outside the Apple ecosystem, portable Windows laptops in the same price range could remain attractive—though Apple’s entry may disrupt that market significantly.
Apple’s Bigger Hardware Roadmap
This budget MacBook isn’t the only upcoming innovation. Ming-Chi Kuo also reported that Apple is developing smart glasses, expected by 2027. While they won’t have a display like Meta’s Ray-Bans, they may feature audio playback, video recording, and “AI environmental sensing”—positioning them as another step in Apple’s wearables evolution.
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This story was first reported by ZDNET. Read the full article here.
