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A New Budget-Friendly MacBook on the Horizon

USASaturday, January 3, 2026
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Apple is rumored to be working on a new 12.9-inch MacBook, set to revolutionize the entry-level to mid-range laptop market. Expected to launch in early 2026, this MacBook could be a budget-friendly alternative to the current MacBook Air.

Price and Market Position

  • Expected Price Range: $599 - $899 (significantly lower than the current MacBook Air's $999 starting price).
  • Target Market: Entry-level to mid-range users seeking an affordable MacBook.

Performance and Specifications

  • Chip: Rumored to feature the A18 Pro chip, also expected in the iPhone 16 Pro.
  • 6-core CPU
  • 6-core GPU
  • 16-core Neural Engine
  • Performance comparable to the M1 chip.
  • RAM: Likely 8GB (half of current MacBook Air and Pro models).
  • Ports: No Thunderbolt support, expected to have regular USB-C ports (slower data transfer and display limitations).

Design and Aesthetics

  • Form Factor: Ultra-thin and lightweight, similar to the discontinued 12-inch MacBook.
  • Color Options: Rumored to include silver, blue, pink, and yellow.

Cautions and Considerations

  • Trade-offs: Lower RAM and lack of Thunderbolt support may limit performance and connectivity.
  • Unconfirmed Details: Apple has not officially announced any specifics. Rumors should be taken with caution.

When to Expect It?

  • Possible Announcement: As early as March or April 2024.

The tech world is eagerly awaiting official confirmation from Apple. Stay tuned for more updates!

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