Apple is planning a smaller MacBook starting at $599. This will be a major foray into the budget laptop market, with a release expected as early as late 2025.

Reportedly, the most notable feature of this budget MacBook is its smaller size, featuring a 12.9-inch screen, slightly smaller than the current MacBook Air's 13.6-inch display. It's expected to feature the same A18 Pro chip as the iPhone 16 Pro series, promising impressive performance. The price range is expected to be between $599 and $699, making it particularly student-friendly and potentially helping Apple boost its annual Mac shipments.

Based on mass production progress, mass production of some core components could begin in the third quarter of 2025, with final assembly expected to be completed by Foxconn in the fourth quarter of the same year. This suggests the model could be officially released in late 2025 or early 2026. In recent years, Apple has gradually adjusted its Mac pricing strategy, shedding its previous reputation for being a high-priced entry point.

The launch of the $599 MacBook not only further enriches its product line but also signals a more diversified approach to the consumer notebook market, aiming to reach a wider user base through more affordable pricing.