Supply Chain Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo Predicts Launch at the End of 2025 or Early 2026

Apple is reportedly working on a new, more affordable MacBook that could shake up the laptop market. According to supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the company is planning to release a 13-inch laptop powered by an A18 Pro chip, which is currently used in the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. This move marks a significant departure from Apple’s traditional approach to laptop design, where Macs have long been powered by custom-designed chips. The use of an iPhone chip in a MacBook could potentially lead to improved power efficiency, longer battery life, and reduced heat generation.

The A18 Pro chip averages around 3,400 points on the Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark and 8,500 to 8,600 points in multi-core. These scores are comparable to Apple’s M4 chip, which is used in some Mac models. The new laptop is expected to come in various colors, including silver, blue, pink, and yellow, which would be a departure from the typical MacBook aesthetic. This decision may be aimed at appealing to a younger demographic and making the laptop more visually appealing. The colors may also help to differentiate the laptop from other Apple products and make it more appealing to consumers who value individuality.

Kuo predicts that Apple will sell around 5-7 million units of this product in 2026, with prices potentially undercutting the $999 MacBook Air. This could put Apple in a competitive position against cheaper Chromebooks and mid-level Windows laptops in the education market and for users who only need a laptop for basic tasks like email and web browsing. The M3 MacBook Air has already dropped to $799 new on sale, indicating that Apple is willing to price its laptops more competitively. The new laptop’s price point could also make it an attractive option for consumers who are looking for a reliable and efficient laptop without breaking the bank.

The reference design for the laptop is reportedly being supplied by Everwin Precision in Shenzhen, China. Interestingly, Everwin is also building frames for smart glasses that are expected to ship in 2027. These glasses will feature audio playback, a camera, and video recording, but will lack display functionality. This move suggests that Apple may be exploring new product categories and experimenting with innovative technologies. The company’s focus on augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies could lead to the development of new products and services that enhance the user experience.

While these predictions are still speculative, they could have significant implications for the laptop market. As the technology landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Apple’s new MacBook and other products shape the industry. The company’s willingness to experiment and innovate may ultimately lead to new and exciting products that appeal to a wider range of customers. Apple’s commitment to delivering high-quality products that meet the needs of its customers is a key factor in its success, and the new MacBook is likely to be no exception.