According to a new report from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple is actively developing its first-ever low-cost laptop, a machine designed to take direct aim at the dominance of Chromebooks and entry-level Windows PCs. This is a big deal. If the report is accurate, this new Mac could finally give students, schools, and budget-conscious buyers a true Apple laptop experience without the premium price tag.
Codenamed J700, this new Mac is reportedly already in active testing and early production with suppliers. Apple is also apparently looking to capture potential iPad buyers who might prefer a traditional laptop form factor. As per Gurman, could see this new machine launch in the first half of next year.
The growing threat from low-cost Google Chromebooks is a major factor. Apple also likely sees an opportunity to pull in Windows users who are unhappy with the shift to Windows 11 and facing the end of security updates for older software.
The report suggests the it will use less-advanced components, including a lower-end LCD display. The screen is also said to be the smallest in any current Mac, measuring slightly less than the 13.6-inch MacBook Air. In a first for the Mac, this laptop will reportedly be powered by an iPhone processor instead of a computer-specific M-series chip. While that might sound like a downgrade, some benchmark tests have shown some iPhone chips can outperform the M1 chip.
What do you think? Is a budget Mac an instant buy, or will the compromises be too much? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Stay updated with the latest news on this by downloading the Appleosophy App from the App Store or by visiting our website.
