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Apple may launch its cheapest MacBook yet — powered by an iPhone SoC
Apple is reportedly preparing a new entry-level MacBook that could shake up the affordable laptop market. According to a recent DigiTimes report (via Jukan), the company is developing a budget-friendly MacBook that swaps a traditional Mac silicon design for a mobile system-on-chip (SoC) derived from Apple’s iPhone lineup. This shift could enable much lower pricing while still offering the power efficiency Apple is known for.
Key product features
Processor and performance
The rumored device is expected to use a mobile SoC similar to the A18 Pro found in iPhone 16 Pro models. While an A-series chip won’t match the peak performance of current M-series Mac chips, it can deliver excellent single-thread efficiency and outstanding battery life for everyday tasks—web browsing, productivity apps, media playback and light content creation.
Display and design
To further lower costs, Apple may equip the model with a smaller 12.9-inch display. The compact screen, combined with a streamlined chassis, would target students and users who prioritize portability and value over high-end specs.
Comparison: new entry-level MacBook vs. existing options
Compared with the MacBook Air with M-series chips, the new model would likely trade top-tier compute and GPU power for a dramatically lower price. That positioning puts it squarely against budget Chromebooks and Windows laptops, offering macOS, integrated Apple ecosystem features, and competitive battery life as differentiators.
Advantages and use cases
Advantages of an iPhone-chip MacBook include cost savings, strong energy efficiency, and smooth performance for daily productivity. Ideal use cases include remote learning, office suites, email, streaming, and portable productivity for on-the-go professionals and students who value ecosystem integration and macOS compatibility.
Market relevance and timeline
DigiTimes analyst Jim Hsiao expects component mass production to begin in Q3 of this year, with a public launch possible near the end of 2025 or in early 2026. Reported price targets range between $599 and $699, which would put Apple in direct competition with low-cost Chromebooks and Windows notebooks—segments the company has historically left mostly to other manufacturers.
What this means for consumers and Apple
If realized, an affordable MacBook using an iPhone-derived SoC could broaden Apple’s addressable market, attracting budget-conscious buyers and education customers while strengthening macOS adoption. For tech buyers it means more choices: premium M-series MacBooks for power users and a lower-cost, highly portable option for mainstream users.
Source: gizmochina
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