Apple appears to be gearing up to enter the affordable laptop market, targeting those who desire an Apple MacBook but find the premium pricing a barrier. According to a recent report by DigiTimes, Apple is in the process of developing a budget-friendly MacBook series aimed at competing with popular, low-cost Chromebook models, particularly in the education sector.
The report suggests that Apple plans to differentiate its budget MacBook series from the existing MacBook Air and Pro lines. One potential distinction could be the use of alternative materials for the laptop casing, departing from the usual aluminum construction. Additionally, Apple is exploring the use of cost-effective mechanical components to keep prices competitive.
The decision to explore this new MacBook series seems to be driven by market trends and competition. Chromebooks, in particular, have gained significant traction in the education sector, with shipments soaring from 13.9 million units in 2019 to 33.5 million units in 2021, as reported by DigiTimes Research. The affordability and suitability of Google’s Chromebooks for educational purposes have contributed to their popularity, especially during and after the global pandemic.
According to the report, consumers can anticipate the release of the new Apple MacBook series in the second half of 2024. While this might suggest a potential announcement at Apple’s WWDC 2024 event in June, there is no official confirmation yet, and the launch timeline could change in the coming year.
It’s essential to approach this development with some caution, as it is primarily based on early rumors. Further verification from additional sources is advisable before forming concrete expectations.
Meanwhile, Apple is preparing for its upcoming iPhone 15 series launch event scheduled for September 12. There are rumors of a potential price increase, particularly for the iPhone 15 Pro models, although these details remain unconfirmed, and Apple enthusiasts will need to await the official unveiling for more information.