Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has revealed that Apple plans to release a MacBook powered by the A18 Pro processor found in the iPhone 16 Pro. This comes as part of Apple’s strategy to create a more affordable Mac option.
Since the introduction of its A-series processors with the A4 in 2010, Apple has consistently advanced its chip technology, and the transition towards utilizing these chips in Mac devices aligns with past comparisons between Intel Macs and A-series processors. Kuo provides specific details regarding the upcoming lower-cost MacBook.
He suggests it will enter mass production by late 2025 or early 2026, feature a 13-inch display, and come in a range of colors including silver, blue, pink, and yellow. The A18 Pro processor, which is also used in the latest iPhone models, is expected to enhance the device’s performance.
According to Kuo, Apple aims to sell between five and seven million units in 2026, contributing to a broader target of reaching 25 million total MacBook sales, similar to levels seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although he did not provide pricing details, his sales projections indicate a competitive price point.
If the display size aligns with that of the MacBook Air, this new model could position itself as the most budget-friendly option in Apple’s lineup. Switching from M-series to A-series processors would likely reduce production costs, given that the A-series chips are smaller and less complex.
However, this transition may limit the new MacBook’s capabilities, making it more suitable for casual users rather than power users. While it remains uncertain if the device will run iOS or iPadOS, it is expected to operate on macOS in some form.
Marketing a product lineup that includes both M-series and A-series processors poses challenges, but Apple has successfully navigated similar splits in its iPad offerings. Kuo’s predictions, though sometimes speculative, carry weight due to his industry connections and the level of detail he provides.
This potential return of the MacBook could rekindle interest in a form factor that was missed after its discontinuation in 2019.
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