Apple is reportedly moving a lower-cost MacBook into mass production by the end of 2025, with retail timing more likely in early 2026. The claim comes from analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who says the machine will be Apple’s first Mac powered by an A-series iPhone chip rather than M-series silicon.
The rumored configuration centers on an A18 Pro-class processor and an approximately 13-inch display. Color options floated in earlier reports include silver, blue, pink, and yellow. Those details align with prior code references and roundup reporting from the summer.
A production start late next year doesn’t guarantee a 2025 launch. Based on Apple’s usual timetables, a first-quarter 2026 release is more realistic. That window lines up with unit guidance Kuo has mentioned before: 5–7 million units over calendar 2026, if Apple hits its targets.
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Positioning is the open question. MacBook Air already covers the mainstream and MacBook Pro serves power users, so a third model almost has to compete on price and battery-friendly simplicity. An A-series chip could enable a fanless design and long runtimes, provided macOS performance stays “good enough” for everyday tasks. Apple hasn’t confirmed the product, specs, or price. Treat all specifics as rumor for now.
Kuo has also tied a different track to 2026–2027: an OLED MacBook Pro with a touch-enabled display entering mass production late 2026. That would be separate from the budget model and aimed at the high end.
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