(C) Tom's Guide

Apple may introduce a low-cost 12.9-inch MacBook as early as the first half of this year. On the 2nd (local time), IT media outlet MacRumors, citing market research firm TrendForce, reported that Apple is preparing to expand its entry-level laptop lineup.

TrendForce analyzed that this product will target beginners and general consumers with a reasonable price point. While specific hardware configurations have not been officially disclosed, industry experts speculate that the budget MacBook is likely to use a processor adapted from the A18 Pro chip series—currently used in the iPhone 16 Pro—optimized for a laptop environment. The release is expected as early as March or April.

The starting price for this entry-level MacBook in the U.S. market is projected to be between $599 (approx. 870,000 KRW) and $899 (approx. 1.3 million KRW). The most probable price points are $699 (approx. 1.01 million KRW) or $799 (approx. 1.15 million KRW). If realized, this would create an entry-level segment positioned below the MacBook Air, which currently starts at $999.

In terms of performance, the device is expected to feature an A18-series chip consisting of a 6-core CPU, 6-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine. Its processing power is observed to be comparable to the previous M1 chip. Consequently, it is predicted to serve as a natural replacement for existing M1 MacBook Air users.

Meanwhile, MacRumors suggested that the low-cost MacBook might inherit the thin and light design of the discontinued 12-inch MacBook, with an official announcement possible within the next few months.