Last Updated:February 17, 2026, 09:51 IST
Apple MacBook could get a big refresh with the new budget version expected to launch in the next few weeks.
Apple is planning for one its biggest changes in the PC segment by launching a cheap MacBook variant this year. We have been hearing about this model for a while with some hints about its features and possible price tag which has many excited for how Apple will position this product and whether it does better than the iPhone e-series models.

Apple’s new MacBook version could sit below the Air variant in the lineup and priced well below it as well. We could see the company bring back an old screen size for the model and make some other concessions to keep the price down.

Don’t expect Apple to dish out all its usual premiumness for this product, which means the build quality will be slightly different but still have some level of Apple-ness about it. The MacBook is expected to come in colourful options and likely to feature a 12-inch display rather than 13-inch which was mentioned in earlier reports.

Apple could use the iPhone chipset (A18/19 series) to power this MacBook variant which could help in a big way to keep the launch price low but also offer Apple Intelligence support for these buyers.

The model is likely to have only 8GB RAM as the sole option, less number of USB C ports, and the LCD panel will not be bright and punchy as the regular Macs offer.

The affordable MacBook model could be priced around $699 (Rs 60,900 approx) which will make it a budget device in the lineup. Apple could target the new system for students which means a special discounted rate will let them buy the model for $599 (Rs 48,900 approx).
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