Apple may launch an affordable MacBook model, equipped with the A18 Pro chip for the first time, which only appeared on the iPhone, marking a breakthrough when the iPhone Silicon chip switched to macOS.
The model could be launched in late 2025 or early 2026 with a 13-inch display, expected to sell for $699-899, significantly cheaper than the current MacBook Air M4.
Although the A18 Pro chip is not as powerful as the M‐series, its single-stroke performance is on par with the M1 and superior to the GPU compared to the M1; only about 40% behind the M4. This means that ordinary users such as students, office workers, etc. still have a powerful MacBook, smooth for work and entertainment every day.
The new MacBook model also promises impressive battery life thanks to its energy-saving ARM chip, along with a thin, compact design, easy to carry everywhere.
Integrating a 16-fold Neural Engine on the A18 Pro opens up the potential for AI processing directly on the device, supporting Apple Intelligence, Voice Memos AI or Live Translation without an internet connection. This helps Apple continue to expand its hardware - artificial intelligence model.
The A18 Pro MacBook chip series is considered a solution to balance performance, battery life and price.
With an expected price of only 70-80% of the MacBook Air M4, the appearance of this device can consume 5-7 million units in the first year, aiming to reach 25 million Macs sold in 2026.
It is likely that this will be the first choice for those who need a thin, light Mac with all the features at an affordable price.
