Apple Reportedly Developing Two New Budget MacBook Models
A new leak out of Korea suggests that Apple is actively working on two new MacBook models with 12- and 13-inch screens. According to the leak, these laptops will be priced at $700 or less, a refreshing change considering the high prices of Apple hardware. However, it is important to approach this information with caution as it originates from a user named yeux1122 on the Korean blogging site Naver. Nevertheless, renowned Apple leakers Mark Gurman and Ming-Chi Kuo have supported parts of this leak, adding some credibility to the claims. Recent reports indicate that Apple may revive its discontinued 12-inch MacBook, and popular demand for a more compact laptop has been growing. This aligns with the leak from yeux1122 back in February about an inbound 12-inch MacBook. Furthermore, DigiTimes also reported that Apple is developing new low-cost MacBook models. Kuo confirmed that Apple is considering more affordable MacBooks but has not made a final decision yet.
Cheaper MacBooks May Solve Apple’s Current Problems
Considering the challenges in processor production and the significant decline in global laptop sales, Apple may find the release of budget MacBook models to be a beneficial move. MacBook prices have not seen a significant drop in quite some time, making them less accessible to budget-conscious buyers. Both Kuo and yeux1122 claim that these budget MacBooks present an opportunity for Apple to recover in the laptop market, especially against affordable laptops in the education sector, such as the best Chromebooks. The $700 price point seems reasonable compared to the price of premium Chromebooks. Additionally, the upcoming launch of Apple’s M3 chip during the October 30 event suggests that the focus will be on high-powered new models like the rumored M3 MacBook Pro, rather than the budget MacBooks. However, it remains unclear whether the new 12- and 13-inch MacBooks will feature M3 chips or repurposed M2 chips. Regardless, the introduction of more affordable MacBooks would be a welcome change for consumers who perceive Apple as having expensive products. The only question that remains is what these new MacBooks will be called, as leakers have not used the Air and Pro monikers for the budget models. Possibilities include a return to the simple “MacBook 12-inch” name or completely different names like MacBook mini, MacBook Nano, or MacBook Lite.
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