Apple Reportedly Planning Low-Cost MacBook Launch in March 2026: Check Out All the Details

By: Ajay Ajay

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Updated on: 16-Feb-2026

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Key Highlights

• Apple is reportedly planning a low-cost MacBook launch in March 2026
• Bloomberg's Mark Gurman cites an upcoming event next month as the likely announcement venue
• Device powered by A18 Pro chipset from iPhone 16 Pro models
• Expected price under $1,000, targeting sub-$800 range in some estimates
• Features playful, bright color options tested, departing from muted tones
• Maintains aluminum build with new cost-efficient manufacturing process

Apple Prepares Low-Cost MacBook Launch in March

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reported in his Power The newsletter says that Apple is set to introduce an entry-level MacBook at an event in March 2026. The device aims to expand Apple's presence in the budget laptop segment, competing with Chromebooks and lower-end Windows machines.

The new MacBook, codenamed J700, targets a price well below $1,000 (approximately Rs. 90,700), with analyst estimates placing it around $699 to $799. This positions it as Apple's most affordable MacBook model to date.

Key Specifications and Design Changes

The laptop will use the A18 Pro chipset, the same processor found in the iPhone 16 Pro series. This shift from Apple's M-series chips helps reduce costs while delivering performance suitable for everyday tasks.

Other reported features include:

• Display size slightly under 13 inches (around 12.9 inches in some details)
• Aluminum chassis preserved for premium feel
• New manufacturing process for faster, lower-cost aluminum production
• USB Type-C ports for data transfer (no Thunderbolt expected)
• Potential limitations on external display support
• 8GB RAM configuration mentioned in prior reports
• Long battery life emphasized

Color Options Break from Tradition

Apple is testing brighter and more "playful" colors for the device, including options like light yellow, light green, blue, pink, classic silver, and dark gray. This contrasts with the company's usual muted or metallic finishes on MacBooks. Not all tested colors are expected to reach production.

Launch Timeline and Context

Gurman indicates Apple is preparing for a March event, where the low-cost MacBook could serve as a key announcement. It remains unclear if the event will focus solely on this device or include other hardware, such as updated M5 MacBook models or displays.

The timing aligns with Apple's broader 2026 Mac roadmap, which includes M5 refreshes for MacBook Air and Pro lines. The low-cost model targets students, enterprise users, and emerging markets to boost adoption.

Also Read: Mate 80 Pro Goes Global: Huawei Confirms February 26 Launch

What to Watch Next

Official confirmation from Apple is pending, with teasers or invitations potentially appearing soon if a March event proceeds. Further details on final specs, exact pricing, and available colors are expected closer to announcement. This move could influence the budget laptop market by combining Apple's ecosystem with accessible pricing.