Apple may launch budget MacBook in India this week: Everything we know so far
It is said that Apple could start a busy launch week with the possible unveiling of new low-cost MacBooks for students and first-time buyers, a move that could lower the entry barrier for macOS in India. The device is likely to prioritize everyday performance and affordability over premium features, suggesting a change in Apple’s entry-level laptop strategy.
Apple may be gearing up for one of the most important weeks of the year, with new product announcements expected to begin tonight. A brief teaser shared by Apple CEO Tim Cook hinting at a “big week ahead” has fueled speculation of several launches, including a new, more affordable MacBook that could be targeted at students and budget-conscious users in markets like India. Apple held media briefings in cities including New York, Shanghai and London on March 4, revealing that several hardware updates were in the pipeline.
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Apple may launch budget MacBook in India this week: Everything we know so far
Of the expected announcements, the most closely watched is Apple’s rumored low-cost MacBook. If launched, it would sit below the MacBook Air in Apple’s laptop lineup and could change how the company approaches entry-level Macs. The device is expected to retain Apple’s familiar aluminum build, with early reports suggesting a design that resembles the MacBook Air rather than older MacBook models. Apple is said to have tested several color options, including lighter colors like yellow, blue, and pink, as well as more traditional finishes like silver and dark gray. Only a few of these colors are likely to be finalised.
Details about the display are uncertain, with reports pointing to a 12.9-inch or 13-inch screen. To keep costs under control, Apple is expected to make a number of compromises. The display may offer lower brightness levels and lack features like True Tone. Other reported omissions include backlit keyboards, faster SSD speeds, and some of the more advanced internal components found on higher-end Macs. These changes show that Apple’s focus is on delivering a functional, everyday laptop rather than a premium machine.
The biggest changes may happen inside. Instead of using M-series processors, Apple is expected to power the new MacBooks with the A18 Pro chip, the same processor introduced with the iPhone 16 Pro. Built on a 3-nanometer process, the A18 Pro offers strong single-core performance and is expected to comfortably handle routine tasks like web browsing, online classes, office work, video playback and light photo or video editing. However, it is unlikely to be deployed as a machine for heavy workloads such as 4K video editing or advanced 3D tasks.
The use of the A-series chip also points to Apple targeting the education sector more directly. The low-cost MacBook is widely seen as Apple’s answer to the affordable Chromebook laptops that dominate classrooms globally. Memory is expected to start at 8GB to support Apple Intelligence features, although a higher option is possible. Storage could start at 128GB, which will help keep the base price under control. Connectivity is also expected to be limited, with standard USB-C ports instead of Thunderbolt support and possible support for only one external display.
Pricing will be an important factor, especially in India. While the MacBook Air starts at a significantly higher price (between Rs 90,000 and Rs 1 lakh), the new model is expected to be priced well below it. Estimates suggest that Apple may price the laptop between $599 and $799 globally. In India, the new budget MacBook models are rumored to be priced at Rs 60,000 or more. If this translates into competitive pricing in India, it could lower the barrier of entry to macOS for students and first-time buyers.
Along with budget MacBooks, Apple is also expected to refresh its existing Mac lineup. The MacBook Pro range could see an update with the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, which will largely focus on performance gains rather than design changes. Meanwhile, the MacBook Air may receive an internal upgrade to the M5 chip while retaining its current design and pricing structure. You can stay connected to India Today Tech for all updates as we will cover everything.