On Monday, renowned tipster Ming-Chi Kuo revealed that Apple might be gearing up to release a more affordable MacBook featuring an iPhone chip. MacRumors has added an interesting twist to this revelation by suggesting that clues regarding this device had been spotted as early as the summer of the previous year.
MacRumors discovered hints within back-end code, reinforcing Kuo’s claim about the new laptop’s specifications. This upcoming MacBook is expected to showcase a 13-inch display and will likely be equipped with the A18 Pro chip, available in color options such as silver, blue, pink, and yellow.
The device was flagged in backend code linked to Apple Intelligence last summer, and reports indicate it uses the identifier “Mac17,1.” If the new MacBook is indeed introduced, it will be the first Apple device utilizing an iPhone chip instead of an M-series processor, which have been standard in Apple’s silicon-powered Macs.
While the A18 Pro chip currently powers the iPhone 16 Pro models, it may not deliver the ultra-fast performance typically associated with M-series chips. Since this MacBook is said to be budget-friendly, high performance may not be its primary selling point.
The new MacBook is reportedly set for mass production by late 2025 or early 2026, suggesting a potential launch in the first half of next year. As it stands, Apple does not currently offer a budget-friendly MacBook, with the MacBook Air series being the most affordable at a starting price of $999.
While no pricing details for the A18 Pro MacBook have surfaced, it is expected to be cheaper than the base configuration of the M4 MacBook Air. In the realm of community discussions, it’s essential to maintain focus on the topic at hand and ensure respectful communication.
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