Apple Prepares to Launch Its First Budget Laptop: A New Step Towards Accessibility in Tech
The American tech giant Apple is currently in the active stages of developing and soon launching its first affordable laptop model, which could mark a significant shift for the company and open up new opportunities for budget-conscious consumers.
According to information provided by Bloomberg, this new device, code-named J700, is designed to meet the needs of students, small businesses, and everyday users who require a reliable and cost-effective device for document work, web browsing, and basic media editing.
Sources close to Bloomberg reveal that the new Mac is still in the early testing phase, with a planned release date set for the first half of 2026.What makes this device particularly noteworthy is its use of a processor based on iPhone technology — the first time Apple incorporates such a chip into a laptop, replacing traditional M-series chips.
Internal tests indicate that this processor surpasses the performance of older MacBook models based on M1.
Additionally, the new laptop will feature a low-cost LCD display slightly smaller than 13.6 inches, similar to the MacBook Air.Analysts note that this model will serve as a direct competitor to Chromebooks and entry-level Windows PCs, which are widely used in educational institutions and small businesses.
According to IDC, Apple’s share of the global PC market is about 9%, with Lenovo, HP, and Dell remaining the industry leaders.
The introduction of an affordable Mac could significantly alter the competitive landscape, attracting consumers currently favoring iPads with Magic Keyboard Folio, priced around $600.
The new MacBook is expected to cost under $1000, offering better battery life, the convenience of macOS, and an integrated keyboard.Currently, the cheapest Apple laptop is the MacBook Air M4 priced at $999 or $899 with an educational discount.
For comparison, Chromebooks typically cost a few hundred dollars, and premium models are around $600.
This move toward a lower price segment is somewhat unusual for Apple, which traditionally focuses on premium devices with high margins.
However, increasing competition from Google and Microsoft is compelling the company to seek new ways to attract customers.Specifically, the recent Windows 11 updates, which have left some users without security support, create opportunities for Apple to win over new users.
Following news of the budget Mac development, shares of HP and Dell briefly slid by approximately 2%, while Apple’s shares increased slightly, by less than 1%, reaching $270.25.
The Mac segment remains one of Apple’s most dynamic sectors, with sales growing by 13% last quarter to $8.73 billion.
Yet, the company is forecasting slowed growth and is actively preparing to release new Mac models in 2026, featuring the upcoming M5 chip, including MacBook Air, MacBook Pro with M5 Pro, and M5 Max variants, with OLED screens and the M6 chip expected to debut closer to the end of 2026 or early 2027.