（Singapore, 05.11.2025）Apple Inc. is preparing to enter uncharted territory — the low-cost laptop market — with plans to launch an affordable Mac model in the first half of 2026. The move marks a major shift for the tech giant, which has long been known for its premium, high-priced devices.
According to a Bloomberg report citing people familiar with the matter, the new laptop — code-named J700 — is being developed to attract students, small businesses, and everyday users who mainly browse the web, work on documents, or handle light photo and video editing. It also targets consumers who might otherwise consider buying an iPad but prefer the traditional feel of a laptop.
Apple’s upcoming model will reportedly be priced well below US$1,000, a significant drop from its current entry-level MacBook Air M4, which starts at US$999 (or about US$899 with an education discount).
To keep costs down, Apple will use less-advanced components, including a lower-end LCD display and — for the first time — a processor based on iPhone technology instead of its usual Mac-specific chips. Despite this, internal tests suggest that the iPhone processor can outperform the M1 chip found in earlier MacBook Air models.
This would make the new laptop not just a cheaper alternative, but a potentially efficient one — especially for students and professionals who value battery life and seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem.
A Strategic Shift for Apple
Apple’s entry into the budget laptop space represents a major strategic change. For decades, the company has built its brand around high-end design and performance — and has consistently resisted competing on price.
But the global PC market has shifted dramatically in recent years. Chromebooks, which run Google’s lightweight Chrome OS, have become especially popular in schools and among budget-conscious consumers. Windows PC makers like HP and Dell also dominate the affordable segment.
By comparison, Apple currently holds about 9% of the global PC market, ranking fourth behind Lenovo, HP, and Dell, according to IDC data.
Analysts say a lower-priced Mac could help Apple win back younger users and schools, where Chromebooks have a strong foothold. It could also appeal to millions of iPhone users in the U.S. who have yet to own a Mac.
In recent years, Apple’s iPad lineup has increasingly overlapped with its laptops, especially as the company introduced accessories like the Magic Keyboard Folio. A typical iPad and keyboard setup costs around US$600, roughly the same range the new Mac is expected to target.
However, the upcoming laptop would offer several advantages: A full desktop operating system (macOS) instead of iPadOS, Longer battery life, A built-in keyboard and larger screen and Improved multitasking capabilities.
This makes the new Mac an attractive alternative for students or remote workers seeking flexibility without paying premium prices.
New Mac to Disrupt Budget PC Market
Following reports of Apple’s new budget device, shares of major PC manufacturers HP and Dell Technologies slipped about 2% in New York trading, while Apple’s stock edged up less than 1% to US$270.25.
Analysts believe the move could pressure competitors in the sub-US$1,000 market, which has been largely dominated by Windows PCs and Chromebooks.
“Apple entering this space will force rivals to rethink their value proposition,” said one industry analyst. “Consumers who once settled for budget PCs might now find themselves considering a Mac for the first time.”
Apple’s Mac division has been one of the company’s most promising segments lately. In the last quarter, Mac sales rose 13% year-on-year to US$8.73 billion, making it Apple’s fastest-growing hardware business.
While growth is expected to moderate in the current quarter — largely due to limited new releases — Apple is planning a major refresh in 2026. In addition to the new low-cost laptop, the company is working on an M5 MacBook Air, upgraded M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pros, and refreshed Mac mini and Mac Studio models.
Further down the line, Apple is also developing an M6 MacBook Pro with an OLED touch screen similar to the iPhone’s, expected to debut in late 2026 or early 2027.
Balancing Affordability and Ecosystem
Despite entering the low-cost segment, Apple is expected to maintain its signature design quality and seamless integration across devices. The new Mac will still run macOS, ensuring compatibility with iCloud, iMessage, and other Apple services that have become deeply embedded in users’ digital lives.
This ecosystem advantage could give Apple a powerful edge over cheaper rivals. A Mac that’s affordable, yet still part of Apple’s world of devices, might encourage users to stay — or switch — entirely to Apple’s platform.
Apple has not officially commented on the reports, and details such as the final design, launch date, and specifications remain under wraps. However, industry insiders say production is already underway with overseas suppliers, suggesting a release as early as the first half of 2026.
If successful, the new budget Mac could mark a pivotal moment for Apple — expanding its reach beyond the premium crowd and reshaping how the world views “affordable” laptops.
