In a surprising twist on its long-held premium strategy, Apple is stepping into the low-cost laptop market.
According to Bloomberg, the upcoming Mac, code-named J700, is currently in active testing at Apple and early production with overseas suppliers. The company reportedly aims to launch it in the first half of next year.
The laptop will target “students, businesses, and casual users,” people who mainly use their computers for web browsing, document editing, or light media work. Apple is also eyeing iPad shoppers who might prefer a more traditional keyboard-based laptop experience.
What to expect from a “budget” Apple laptop
So, how is Apple planning to keep the price down? The key is in the components.
Bloomberg reports that the company will use “less-advanced components” to hit a price point “well under $1,000.” This includes two major changes. For the first time, a Mac would run on a processor designed for an iPhone, not a chip from the M-series made specifically for computers.
Remarkably, internal tests showed this smartphone chip can outperform the older M1 chip that powered Macs just a few years ago. The laptop will also feature a lower-end LCD and will be slightly smaller than the 13.6-inch screen on the current MacBook Air, making it the most compact Mac in the lineup.
Apple’s foray into the budget category is seen as a direct response to market trends. Chromebooks, which often cost just a few hundred dollars, have taken a substantial share, particularly in the education sector.
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Furthermore, the mandatory move by Microsoft to Windows 11 has created an opening, as some users of older Windows systems may be left without future security updates, prompting them to look for alternatives.
The new, low-cost laptop is expected to fall into a price range similar to the popular student setup of an entry-level iPad paired with a Magic Keyboard Folio, which together cost roughly $600.
The upcoming Mac would offer better battery life and the flexibility of the full macOS software experience, potentially making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
Apple is planning major display upgrades for the MacBook Air, iPad Air, and iPad Mini lines over the next two years, with all three brands reportedly set to receive OLED displays.