Apple is reportedly preparing an entry-level MacBook aimed at lowering the price while keeping a metal build. According to reporting from Mark Gurman at Bloomberg, the upcoming model is expected to introduce a new aluminum manufacturing method, use an iPhone-class processor, offer multiple color finishes, and target a price well under $1,000.
MacBook
The machine — internally referred to as J700 — is expected to feature a full aluminum chassis rather than plastic. Apple has reportedly developed a revised shell-forging process that allows the enclosure to be produced faster and at lower cost than its current notebook manufacturing method while retaining the same material construction.
To reduce pricing, the device is said to use an iPhone chip instead of an M-series processor. This trade-off distinguishes it from higher-end Mac notebooks but is intended to support everyday productivity, education, and enterprise workloads.
The display is expected to measure slightly under 13 inches, making it smaller than the company’s existing MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models. The laptop is reportedly positioned for student and enterprise deployments where cost and durability are priorities.
Apple has tested multiple color finishes, including light yellow, light green, blue, pink, silver, and dark gray. Final retail availability may include only a subset of these options. A launch window is rumored as early as March, with Apple preparing for a possible event during that timeframe.
Roadmap
Additional Mac updates are reported to be approaching. Refreshes are expected for the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro lineup, alongside an updated Mac Studio. Further ahead, revised versions of the iMac and Mac mini are said to be planned for 2026. Reporting also points to new Mac displays arriving within the broader rollout window.
iPad and iPhone 17e
Tablet updates are expected soon, including refreshed entry-level iPad and updated iPad Air models, plus a redesigned iPad mini featuring an OLED display later this year. A new iPad Pro is not expected in the near term.
Separate imminent hardware reportedly includes the iPhone 17e, positioned as Apple’s next entry-tier iPhone release alongside the tablet refreshes.
Outlook
Gurman indicates that Apple is lining up the budget MacBook alongside refreshed Mac notebooks, new displays, entry iPad updates, and the iPhone 17e for release in the coming weeks, signaling a tightly scheduled wave of hardware launches across its Mac, tablet, and phone lineup.