Apple said to be working on a low-cost Mac

A new laptop model aimed at students and casual users.

Apple is reportedly developing a low-cost Mac, internally identified under the codename J700. The goal is to compete directly with Chromebooks and budget Windows laptops, according to Bloomberg.

The device would target students, businesses and users who rely on their computers for basic tasks such as web browsing, document creation or light content editing. To keep costs down, the new Mac is expected to feature a more affordable LCD display and an iPhone processor instead of the “M” series chips currently used in Macs.

Even so, internal testing is said to have shown performance exceeding that of the M1 chip, while maintaining energy efficiency and the trademark macOS experience.

In terms of design, the J700 would be slightly smaller than the 13.6-inch MacBook Air. Its price is expected to sit around 600 USD, roughly equivalent to the cost of a basic iPad paired with a Magic Keyboard Folio.

The project is reportedly in the testing and early production phase with overseas suppliers, and could launch during the first half of 2026.

For now, Apple has not officially commented on the rumours surrounding this new Mac. If confirmed, it would mark a strategic move towards a more accessible segment within the company’s product line-up.