Archive · 5 Nov 2025
Apple to Launch Budget MacBook to Challenge Chromebooks
Apple is making a new, cheaper laptop to compete with affordable computers like Chromebooks.
This new Mac, code-named J700, is designed for people who use computers for simple tasks like browsing the internet or writing.
It's expected to use a processor that's currently in iPhones, which could be faster than some older Mac chips.
To keep the price down, it will have a basic LCD screen, smaller than other MacBooks.
Apple is testing it now and hopes to release it in the first half of 2026 for less than $1,000, possibly starting as low as $699 with a student discount.
This could help more people who couldn't afford a Mac before to buy one.
Apple is developing a budget-friendly MacBook, codenamed J700, to enter the entry-level laptop market.
The new model aims to compete with Chromebooks and affordable Windows PCs, targeting students, businesses, and casual users.
It is expected to feature an LCD screen and an iPhone processor, which internal tests suggest can outperform older M1 chips.
The laptop will be the smallest Mac by screen size and is targeted to be priced under $1,000, with potential education discounts.
Apple is currently testing the device and has begun early production, with a planned launch in the first half of 2026.
- Who
- Apple Inc.
- What
- Developing and testing a new, budget-friendly MacBook.
- When
- Expected to launch in the first half of 2026.
- Where
- Active testing and early production with overseas suppliers.
- Why
- To enter the low-cost laptop market, compete with Chromebooks and entry-level Windows PCs, and attract budget-conscious users and potential iPad buyers.
Current MacBook Air
Proposed Budget MacBook
Price
Current MacBook Air
Starts at $999, with educational discounts bringing it to $899.
Proposed Budget MacBook
Priced under $1,000, potentially starting around $699 with an education discount.
Components
Current MacBook Air
Features M-series chips and higher-end displays.
Proposed Budget MacBook
Expected to use an iPhone processor and an LCD display to reduce costs.
Target Market
Current MacBook Air
General premium market, with students as a secondary focus.
Proposed Budget MacBook
Specifically targeting Chromebook and budget Windows PC users, students, and potential iPad buyers seeking a laptop experience.
- Codename
- J700
- Expected Launch
- First half of next year (2026)
- Target Market
- Chromebook and budget Windows PC users, students, businesses, casual users, potential iPad buyers
- Processor Type
- iPhone chipset (rumored)
- Display Type
- LCD (reportedly)
- Screen Size
- Slightly below 13.6 inches (smallest current Mac)
- Target Price Point
- Well under $1,000 (US), potentially starting around $699 with education discount.
- Operating System
- macOS
Sources
iPhone 18 Pro Launch Date, Price In India, Design, Specifications, Camera, Colours And More: All Leaks
Apple Could Launch A Cheaper MacBook With iPhone's Processor, Everything We Know So Far
Apple Prepares to Challenge Google and Microsoft with Budget-Friendly MacBook Powered by iPhone Chip
Apple’s Entry-Level MacBook Aimed at Chromebook Users Expected in 2026
Apple’s first budget MacBook may launch in early 2026: Here’s what to expect
