Apple may be preparing a more affordable MacBook, and this time it could come with a surprising twist – an iPhone chip inside.
Renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo reports that Apple is developing a 13-inch MacBook that runs on the A18 Pro chip, the same processor used in the iPhone 16 Pro.
This would mark a major departure from the norm, as all current Macs run on Apple’s M-series chips. According to the report, production could begin in late 2025 or early 2026, pointing to a launch sometime in the first half of 2026. The laptop may also be available in bright colors like Silver, Blue, Pink, and Yellow, keeping in line with Apple’s trend toward colorful consumer products.
Though the A18 Pro chip won’t match the performance of the M-series, it should be more than capable of handling everyday tasks like web browsing, streaming, working with documents, and possibly even running Apple Intelligence features. It could be the perfect fit for students, light users, or anyone wanting a Mac experience without breaking the bank.
Apple’s motivation seems clear: MacBook sales have been slowing, and high prices are likely a major factor. Offering a cheaper model could rejuvenate interest, especially among younger users or those new to the Apple ecosystem.
The bigger question is where this model will fit in Apple’s lineup. Will it be positioned below the MacBook Air or introduce a new tier altogether? Regardless, it signals a bold experiment – one that could redefine what a MacBook is.
From a user perspective, the idea is appealing if macOS remains smooth and apps stay compatible. However, questions linger around long-term support and performance under heavy loads. If Apple strikes the right balance, this iPhone-powered MacBook might open the door to a new era of lightweight, low-cost Macs.
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