Apple is reportedly developing a low-cost MacBook using the A18 Pro processor, similar to what the company did with the iPhone SE strategy in the past. The device would be powered by an approximately 13-inch display and come in different casing colors like silver, blue, pink, and yellow.
The idea of reusing older technologies to create more affordable products is a key part of Apple’s modern strategy. However, some may wonder if this approach will cannibalize sales from existing models like the M1 MacBook Air or the M4 MacBook Air.
In 2023, Digitimes reported that Apple was working on such a product, sparking speculation about what it might mean for the company’s lineup and pricing strategies.
While the A18 Pro processor is more than enough for most potential Mac users, using it in a low-end laptop could still provide better performance compared to older models like the M1.
It remains to be seen whether Apple will discontinue existing models or push them down into lower price ranges when introducing the new affordable MacBook. One possibility is that Apple would use parts from other models, such as the display, to minimize costs.
The potential low-end MacBook could attract customers who might not otherwise buy a full-priced Mac, including those purchasing the M1 MacBook Air at Walmart for $649.
Ming-Chi Kuo’s recent report and MacRumors’ evidence suggest that the more affordable MacBook is expected to enter mass production in late 2025 or early 2026. The device could account for up to 7 million units in 2026, according to estimates.
Source: https://sixcolors.com/post/2025/07/about-that-a16-macbook-rumor