Apple MacBook Neo Features, Prices and Specs
Apple has introduced the MacBook Neo, the company’s cheapest-ever new laptop, starting at $599. The new device represents a shift in Apple’s strategy as it aims to attract more budget-conscious buyers who often choose Windows PCs or Chromebooks.
Apple said the MacBook Neo will launch on March 11.
The company also introduced new MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models this week, along with updated laptop chips.
The MacBook Neo is also notable for being the first Apple laptop powered by a chip typically used in the iPhone. Apple says the move highlights its ability to integrate hardware and software while expanding its reach in a market facing supply challenges.
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The launch comes as the global laptop industry faces component shortages and rising costs, prompting manufacturers to rethink their strategies to maintain growth.
Apple Targets Budget Laptop Buyers
During the launch event in New York, John Ternus, Apple’s senior vice president of hardware engineering, described the MacBook Neo as “totally new” and “built from the ground up.”
Apple has traditionally focused on premium laptops, with MacBook models often priced above competing PCs. By introducing a lower-cost model, the company appears to be targeting consumers who want a Mac but cannot afford higher-end models.
Apple’s iPhone remains the company’s biggest revenue generator, followed by its services business and its wearables division. However, Macs play a key role in keeping users connected to Apple’s broader ecosystem of products and services, including the iPhone and Apple Watch.
Appealing to more price-sensitive customers marks a departure from Apple’s usual approach, as the company has historically left the budget laptop market largely to PC and Chromebook manufacturers.
MacBook Neo Features and Design
Compared with other MacBook models, the MacBook Neo has several differences aimed at lowering its price.
- Smaller display
- Less memory
- Brighter color options, including a new “citrus” yellow
Despite these changes, the most significant difference is its processor. The MacBook Neo runs on Apple’s A18 Pro processor, a chip similar to the one used in the iPhone 16 Pro. It is the first time Apple has used one of its mobile processors to power a laptop.
According to Jitesh Ubrani, research manager at the International Data Corporation (IDC), the device demonstrates Apple’s strength in controlling both hardware and software.
“They’re taking a chip that typically serves a lightweight operating system and running a more heavy weight one,” Ubrani said. “And I think that speaks volumes about Apple’s ability to optimize.”
Most PC makers build laptops but rely on Microsoft’s Windows or Google’s Chrome OS for their operating systems.
Apple’s Position in the Global PC Market
Apple remains a smaller player in the global computer market compared with traditional PC manufacturers.
According to Gartner, Lenovo led the PC market at the end of 2025 with a 27.2% share, while Apple held 9.4%.
MacBooks have historically been more expensive than many competing PCs and lack features such as touchscreens, which are common on many Windows laptops.
The MacBook Neo attempts to address the price gap. Although it does not include a touchscreen, it could appeal to consumers who want a Mac but do not want to spend more than $1,000 on a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro.
Ubrani expects the device to be particularly popular with college students and young adults with limited budgets. Autumn Stanish, an analyst at Gartner, said it could also help Apple expand its presence in education, where Chromebooks are widely used.
Laptop Industry Faces Supply Challenges
The MacBook Neo arrives during a difficult period for the PC industry.
Demand for the type of memory used in AI data centers has increased significantly, leaving fewer components available for consumer electronics such as laptops.
According to industry forecasts:
- PC prices could rise by 17% in 2026, according to Gartner.
- PC sales are expected to decline by 11.3% this year, according to the International Data Corporation.
Launching a more affordable laptop ahead of those potential price increases could help Apple gain a competitive advantage.
Ubrani said Apple is likely to gain market share even if the broader PC market shrinks.
“That share gain is primarily because of this device,” he said.