Apple’s long-rumored affordable MacBook is starting to feel less like speculation and more like an inevitable product, with fresh reports pointing to a possible launch in spring 2026. As Apple prepares a packed year that could include the iPhone 18, its first foldable iPhone, and several new Macs, attention is increasingly shifting toward a smaller, cheaper MacBook aimed at entry-level and mid-range buyers.
According to a new report from Taiwanese research firm TrendForce, Apple is developing a competitively priced MacBook designed to appeal to customers who find current MacBook Air pricing too steep. While the firm stopped short of offering full specifications, existing rumors suggest Apple could unveil this model as early as March or April 2026, positioning it as a more accessible gateway into the macOS ecosystem.
One of the most surprising aspects of this rumored MacBook is the processor it may use. Multiple leaks claim Apple plans to power the device with the A18 Pro chip from the iPhone 16 Pro, rather than an M-series processor. The A18 Pro reportedly features a 6-core CPU, 6-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine, delivering performance roughly comparable to Apple’s original M1 chip, which still handles everyday tasks with ease.
Pricing expectations place this entry-level MacBook somewhere between $599 and $899 in the U.S., with most rumors converging around the $699 or $799 range. That would undercut the MacBook Air, which officially starts at $999, even though real-world discounts often bring it closer to $750. If accurate, this could allow Apple to retire the aging M1 MacBook Air, which is still sold through select retailers like Walmart at heavily discounted prices.
Naturally, cost-cutting compromises are expected. Reports suggest this MacBook could ship with just 8GB of RAM, compared to the 16GB minimum now standard on MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models. It’s also expected to lack Thunderbolt support, relying instead on standard USB-C ports with slower data transfer speeds and more limited external display capabilities.
Display size is another key differentiator. Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously claimed the MacBook would feature roughly a 13-inch display and come in vibrant color options such as silver, pink, yellow, and blue. A later DigiTimes report narrowed that down to a 12.9-inch panel, a claim now supported by TrendForce. This would make it smaller than the 13.6-inch MacBook Air and closer in size to certain iPad Air and iPad Pro models, potentially improving portability.
If these rumors hold true, Apple’s entry-level MacBook could appeal strongly to users who prioritize battery life, portability, and a clean macOS experience over raw performance. With a lighter body, thinner design, and a significantly lower price, it could fill a long-standing gap in Apple’s laptop lineup and become the company’s most accessible MacBook yet.
