Apple may finally be preparing to enter the lower-cost laptop market with a new MacBook model reportedly priced well below AED 2,500. Multiple reports, including one from Bloomberg, suggest the device will launch in the first half of 2026 and use an iPhone-class A-series chip instead of Apple’s M-series processors — a shift that could significantly lower production costs while extending battery life.
According to the leaks, the budget MacBook, codenamed J700, is being positioned as a lightweight, entry-level machine aimed at students, small businesses, and casual users who don’t need the performance of the MacBook Air or Pro lines. It’s designed for everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and streaming, rather than high-end creative work.
The device is said to feature an LCD screen smaller than the 13.6-inch panel found on the current MacBook Air, likely around the 12.9- to 13-inch range. Apple is reportedly considering several color options — including silver, blue, pink, and yellow — that echo the palette of the iMac. The design focus appears to be portability, suggesting a thin, lightweight chassis that could revive the practicality of the discontinued 12-inch MacBook.
Early performance tests reportedly show that the A-series processor being tested — possibly an A18 Pro — can outperform Apple’s older M1 chip in certain tasks. While the exact processor model remains unconfirmed, industry observers expect Apple to prioritize efficiency and cost savings over raw power. The A18 Pro, used in the iPhone 16 Pro, or a variant thereof, would align with that goal.
One major question mark surrounds compatibility with Apple Intelligence, the company’s new suite of on-device AI features. At present, Apple Intelligence requires M-series chips on Mac, and Apple has not indicated whether future A-series devices will support it. If the company keeps that restriction, this new MacBook could focus more on affordability and battery endurance than advanced AI functionality.
In the UAE, where the 13-inch MacBook Air M4 starts at AED 3,999 (or AED 3,579 with education pricing), a sub-$1,000 MacBook would represent a significant shift. After accounting for VAT and configuration differences, the device could realistically arrive below AED 2,000 — placing it in direct competition with Chromebooks and entry-level Windows laptops. For students, families, or remote workers seeking long battery life and Apple’s software ecosystem at a lower cost, it could be an appealing option.
