Apple Inc. is reportedly developing a budget MacBook model that will run on an iPhone-style A-series processor and is expected to launch in the first half of 2026 in the U.S., aiming to be priced well under the current MacBook Air.
According to insider sources cited by Bloomberg, the device — codenamed “J700” — will target casual users, students and businesses that primarily use laptops for web browsing, document work and light media editing.
The new MacBook will mark the first time Apple uses an iPhone-class A-series chip in a Mac notebook rather than its M-series laptop chips. Internal tests reportedly show the chip can outperform the older M1 Mac laptop chip.
On price, reports say the device will come in “well under” US $1,000, possibly around US $600, which would undercut the base MacBook Air listed at US $999 (or US $899 for education pricing).
Design details suggest the screen will be slightly smaller than the MacBook Air’s 13.6-inch panel and will use a lower-end LCD display rather than higher-performance components used in premium Macs.
For Apple, this move represents a strategic shift: by offering a lower-cost MacBook it may attract Chromebook and budget Windows PC users, and potentially convert current iPad users who want a traditional laptop experience.
Analysts say success will depend on how well Apple balances cost, performance and brand expectations—if the budget MacBook delivers a strong experience, it could broaden Apple’s laptop market share; if it falls short, it may risk diluting the premium Mac brand.