Apple is preparing to launch a radically different MacBook, a new entry-level model dropping the Air and Pro suffixes. The device is rumored to feature a 12.9-inch LCD display—slightly smaller than the 13.6-inch Air—and an iPhone-class A18 Pro chip instead of Apple's usual M-series silicon, prioritizing efficiency for basic tasks.

This positioning suggests a sub-$1,000 laptop aimed at students and budget-conscious buyers. Analyst consensus points to a starting price of around $699, significantly undercutting the MacBook Air. The machine will also break from Apple's recent minimalist aesthetic with bold color options like blue, pink, yellow, and silver, a nod to the colorful iMac.

The launch window appears to be the first half of 2026, with some predictions suggesting a release within the next month. This move directly challenges ChromeOS and Windows laptops in the value segment, using a familiar iPhone chip to control costs while offering a distinct, fun design. It represents Apple's most aggressive play for the mass-market laptop buyer in years.

Quick Fact: The new MacBook is rumored to start at around $699.