Apple is reportedly planning to disrupt the laptop market with a more affordable MacBook. The company has been developing a low-cost MacBook option for several months, with sources indicating a possible launch by the end of 2025. Initially, there was speculation that Apple would use the A18 Pro chip found in the iPhone 16 Pro models for the device. However, with the introduction of the iPhone 17 series, Apple appears to have shifted its strategy. According to Mobile Chip Master on the Chinese platform Weibo, the new MacBook may be powered by the A19 Pro chip from the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max.
The A19 Pro chipset is expected to provide a notable increase in performance compared to its predecessor. Benchmark scores from Geekbench reportedly show the iPhone 17 Pro achieving 3,895 in single-core and 9,746 in multi-core performance. In contrast, the iPhone 16 Pro with the A18 Pro scores 3,445 and 8,579 in single-core and multi-core tests, respectively. This suggests that a MacBook powered by the A19 Pro could outperform some existing Apple laptops. For comparison, the M2 MacBook Air has a single-core score of 2,596 and a multi-core score of 9,719 on Geekbench, which the iPhone chip outperforms. Reports indicate that Apple’s budget MacBook will likely have a slightly smaller 12.9-inch display compared to the MacBook Air’s 13.6-inch screen.
Additionally, the device may come in bright colors such as pink, blue, silver, and yellow to appeal to a younger audience. Currently, the M4 MacBook Air starts at ₹99,900 in India, positioning it as a premium choice. However, Apple’s anticipated budget MacBook could be offered at a significantly lower price. Leaks suggest an entry price as low as $599 (approximately ₹52,370), although some reports indicate it might reach $699 (around ₹61,113), depending on configuration and market strategy. This pricing suggests that Apple is aiming to capture emerging markets like India, where affordability is crucial for adoption. By combining the portability and ecosystem advantages of a MacBook with the performance of an iPhone chip, Apple may broaden its laptop segment’s appeal.
As rumors intensify, excitement is growing for Apple’s official announcement. While details regarding storage, RAM, and battery life are yet to be revealed, the choice of the A19 Pro processor could make this MacBook an attractive option for students, casual users, and budget-conscious buyers. If launched by the end of the year, this budget-friendly MacBook could transform the entry-level laptop market, making premium Apple performance accessible to a larger audience.
