Apple to launch low-cost Mac laptop to rival Chromebooks

ISLAMABAD: Apple is preparing to enter the lower end of the laptop market for the first time, developing a more affordable Mac aimed at users who typically choose Chromebooks or entry-level Windows devices, Bloomberg reported, citing sources familiar with the company’s plans.

Targeting Students and Light Users

The upcoming laptop is being designed for students, office workers, and everyday users who need a machine for web browsing, document editing, and light media tasks. Apple also hopes to attract iPad buyers who may prefer a traditional keyboard and trackpad setup instead of a touchscreen.

New Design, Cheaper Parts

Internally code-named J700, the device is currently in testing and has entered early production with overseas suppliers. Apple aims to release it in the first half of next year, the report said. To lower the price, the company plans to use less expensive components, including an LCD screen smaller than the 13.6-inch panel found in the MacBook Air.

This Mac will also be the first to run on an iPhone-class processor, not a chip designed specifically for computers. However, Apple’s internal tests show that the smartphone chip can outperform the M1 processor, which powered MacBooks until recently.

First Step into Sub-$1,000 Mac Market

Apple has long focused on high-end hardware with strong profit margins and has resisted building cheaper products to chase market share. But this new machine could cost well under $1,000, placing it closer to the $600 range that many Chromebooks and iPad keyboard bundles occupy.

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While the company has previously sold discounted M1 MacBook Airs for under $700 through retailers like Walmart, the new model is not a repackaged older version. It features an entirely new design intended from the start to be more affordable.

Competing With Chromebooks and Windows Laptops

The move comes as Apple faces increased competition in education and budget markets, where Chromebooks dominate. Microsoft’s transition to Windows 11 has also created an opportunity, with some Windows 10 users left without updates or support. Apple sees a chance to offer a more stable alternative within its ecosystem.

The company currently ranks fourth in global PC shipments, with around 9% market share, according to IDC. It trails Lenovo, HP, and Dell, all of which sell budget-friendly Windows or ChromeOS devices.

More Mac Updates Coming

Apple’s new low-end laptop is just one part of a broader Mac product roadmap. The company has already completed development of an M5 MacBook Air for release early next year. It also plans to launch updated M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pros, new Mac mini models, and refreshed Mac Studio configurations using the M5 Max and M5 Ultra chips.

A redesigned MacBook Pro with an M6 chip and a touch-enabled OLED display is expected to arrive in late 2026 or early 2027. Two new external displays are also in development.

In the last quarter, Mac sales rose 13% to $8.73 billion, making it Apple’s fastest-growing hardware segment. However, growth is expected to slow this quarter, as the only new launch will be an entry-level MacBook Pro with an M5 chip.

Apple has not publicly commented on the low-cost Mac, and no official details have been confirmed.