Apple is reportedly preparing to launch an entry-level MacBook next month, with new details suggesting the budget-friendly laptop could debut at the company’s 4 March global ‘Apple Experience’ event.
According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the new MacBook will be powered by Apple’s A18 Pro chip, the same processor first seen in the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
This backs up last year’s rumours that signalled an early 2026 launch window for the product.
The laptop is expected to feature an LCD display and come in at under US$1,000 (A$1.500), potentially positioning it as one of Apple’s most affordable laptops in years.
To reach that lower price point, Apple is reportedly shifting away from its traditional M-series Mac chips for this model, instead leveraging its high-performance iPhone silicon.
However, the company is said to be maintaining its premium build standards.
Gurman reports the laptop will feature an aluminium chassis produced using a new, faster and more cost-effective shell manufacturing process, rather than opting for cheaper materials such as plastic.
Colour could also play a major role in the device’s appeal.
Apple has reportedly tested finishes including blue, silver, dark grey, light green, pink and light yellow.
While not all colours are expected to make it to market, the move aligns with Apple’s recent push toward brighter, more expressive hardware – seen in the multi-coloured iMac range and the latest MacBook Air refresh.
The timing of the rumoured launch is notable. Apple has invited media in London, New York and Shanghai to attend a “special Apple Experience” on 4 March, departing from its usual Cupertino keynote format.
The invite features a layered yellow, green and blue Apple logo (pictured above), fuelling speculation that colourful new hardware could be on show.
While rumours also point to updates to the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air later this year – including potential OLED upgrades – the spotlight in early March may well fall on Apple’s most affordable MacBook yet.