Apple may soon shake up the laptop market with a budget-friendly MacBook powered by an iPhone chip, according to a new report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The device, expected in the first half of next year, could be Apple’s most affordable laptop yet.
Apple’s MacBook lineup has long been known for its premium design and equally premium price, starting at $999. But the company may finally be ready to break tradition. Gurman’s latest report claims a low-cost MacBook is currently in the works, targeting users who would otherwise opt for Chromebooks or entry-level Windows PCs.
According to the report, the budget MacBook could debut in the first half of next year, potentially alongside Apple’s upcoming M5 Mac lineup.
Powered by iPhone chip
While Apple’s latest MacBooks run on the powerful M-series chips, this budget model will reportedly “rely on an iPhone processor” instead. That move would help significantly reduce costs and make the new laptop more energy efficient.
However, this also means users shouldn’t expect the same level of performance found in MacBook Air or Pro models. The device likely won’t handle complex workloads or high-end gaming, but it should perform well for web browsing, note-taking, and multimedia streaming.
Smaller, lower-end display
Another cost-saving measure will reportedly come through the display. Gurman says the laptop will use a “lower-end LCD panel” — unlike the mini-LED or OLED screens on high-end Macs.
This screen will be smaller than the 13.6-inch display on the current MacBook Air, making it the smallest Mac laptop in Apple’s current lineup.
Completely new design
The device is also expected to feature an entirely new design, though Gurman didn’t disclose further details. Despite being a lower-cost product, Apple is unlikely to compromise on its signature build quality.
Industry analysts expect the company to retain its metal chassis, ensuring that even the most affordable MacBook maintains the premium look and feel Apple products are known for.
Aiming to attract Chromebook users
Apple’s rumored $600 price tag puts this MacBook squarely in competition with budget Chromebooks and entry-level Windows laptops. Gurman notes that Apple could use the iPad with Magic Keyboard Folio—which costs around $600—as a pricing benchmark.
The difference, however, lies in flexibility. Unlike iPads, the new MacBook would offer macOS software, an integrated keyboard, and better battery life, making it a compelling alternative in the affordable laptop segment.
What to expect in 2026
While Gurman’s report stops short of confirming an exact release date, industry watchers expect the device to hit markets sometime in 2026 if Apple’s testing phase goes smoothly.
If successful, this launch could mark Apple’s first major push into the budget laptop category, expanding its reach among students, casual users, and professionals seeking a secondary device.
