One of the most anticipated devices in Apple’s 2026 portfolio is a low-cost MacBook that could be priced between $700 and $800. Currently in development under the codename J700, Bloomberg now reports that the upcoming laptop will feature a metal chassis and may be available in “playful colors.”
What’s coming?
“To stick with this premium material, Apple has developed a new manufacturing process that allows the cases to be forged more quickly. The technology is said to be both faster and more cost-effective than that used in Apple’s current laptops,” the report says, adding that the machine could hit the market next month.
It was widely expected that the entry-level MacBook could replace the expensive metal chassis with plastic to reduce costs. But it seems Apple wants to retain the signature hand feel of a MacBook despite the lower price. As for colors, the company has reportedly tested shades like blue, classic silver, dark gray, light green, light yellow and pink.
It’s unclear whether Apple’s upcoming laptop will retain the same design as the current-generation MacBook Air or whether the company will bring back the 12-inch MacBook’s iconic wedge design. Bloomberg reports that the device will have a screen smaller than 13 inches, raising hopes that Apple could pull off the previous trick.
What else?
Another standout aspect of the device will be the mobile-class chipset. Instead of an M-series processor, which is now a staple in the Mac lineup and even high-end iPads, the pocket-friendly MacBook will reportedly come with an iPhone-class A-series processor.
Does this mean that mobile connectivity will also be part of the package? That seems unlikely, but now that Apple makes its own modems, it’s plausible that Apple could use the upcoming MacBook as a test bed and eventually offer the feature on the upcoming line of MacBook Pro devices.
Bloomberg reports that Apple will market its affordable MacBook primarily in the education and business segments. It remains to be seen how well it compares to Windows-on-Arm machines with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon
