Apple budget MacBook launch in 2026: What to expect

Apple MacBook

Apple is reportedly developing a new budget-friendly MacBook for release in 2026, designed to cost less than the Rs. 83,000 ($999) MacBook Air. The move aims to position Apple more competitively against affordable Chromebooks and low-cost Windows laptops, offering an entry point for users seeking a capable yet inexpensive Mac for everyday tasks.

According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the upcoming MacBook will likely feature a 13-inch display, slightly smaller than the 13.6-inch panel on the current MacBook Air. Apple may not prioritise a slim or ultra-premium design this time, instead opting for a practical build that balances performance and affordability. The display is expected to be a standard LCD panel, no mini-LED or ProMotion,  and could come in multiple colour options such as silver, blue, pink, and yellow, similar to the iMac range.

The low-cost MacBook is said to be powered by Apple’s A18 Pro chip, the same processor used in the iPhone 16 Pro series. Built on Apple’s second-generation 3-nanometre process, the chip includes 8GB RAM and supports Apple Intelligence features. Early benchmarks suggest A18 Pro performance rivals the M1 chip for everyday computing and even surpasses it in multi-core tasks. That would make it capable enough for document editing, browsing, photo work, streaming, and light video editing, but not for heavy 3D gaming or professional-grade workloads.

Connectivity will likely be minimal, possibly limited to one or two USB-C ports. However, thanks to the A18 Pro’s efficiency and the larger internal space of a 13-inch chassis, battery life could equal or exceed the MacBook Air’s 18-hour rating. The device will run macOS and support iPhone and iPad apps, blurring the gap between Apple’s tablet and laptop ecosystems.

Pricing remains unconfirmed, but Bloomberg suggests the notebook will cost “well under $1,000.” Based on Apple’s current product lineup, the affordable MacBook could fall between Rs. 42,000 ($499) and Rs. 66,000 ($799). The discontinued M1 MacBook Air, which Walmart sells for $599, may serve as a pricing reference point.

Apple is expected to launch the device in the first half of 2026, possibly alongside refreshed MacBook Air models. If priced right, the new MacBook could become Apple’s most accessible laptop yet, targeting students, casual users, and those seeking a macOS experience without the premium tag.