Imagine this: a MacBook running on iPhone hardware. It sounds like a far-fetched idea at first glance, but it could soon become a reality.
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Notable Apple insider Ming-Chi Kuo took to X and wrote a short post claiming that Apple is working on a “more-affordable MacBook” that’ll run an A18 Pro chipset instead of an M-series processor like other recent MacBooks. The A18 Pro is the same type of hardware found in the iPhone 16 Pro.
Early clues
Hints of this device first appeared in July 2024 when MacRumors analyst Aaron Perris discovered various upcoming iPhone, Mac, and iPad models after scouring through macOS 15.1. Much of the unearthed information was not revealed at the time. However, MacRumors has suggested that one particular MacBook, Mac17,1, is the mystery new computer that runs on the A18 Pro.
Details are scarce, but Kuo dropped some interesting tidbits. The A18 Pro-based MacBook will have a 13-inch display, like the MacBook Air, and be available in several colors, including silver, blue, pink, and yellow. The device is expected to enter mass production sometime in late 2025 to early 2026, where it’s “projected to account for five to seven million” MacBook units.
Potential price
A MacBook running on the A18 Pro chipset is an interesting concept, especially as the line between smartphones and laptops continues to blur. The iPhone 16 Pro is an inherently powerful machine. It’s lightning fast and capable of supporting a robust ecosystem of AI features. A computer with the Pro’s hardware could potentially work as a decent midrange laptop.
The M4 MacBook Air is already fairly affordable at $849 on Amazon. At the time of writing, the price for the rumoured A18 Pro-based MacBook is unknown. However, imagine paying $600 or $700 for a MacBook — maybe less. It’s a cool idea, and it certainly has me excited. If we learn more about Apple’s apparent project, you’ll be the first to know.
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In addition to the laptop, Kuo claimed that Apple is also working on a pair of smart glasses set to release in 2027. This device will reportedly function similarly to Meta Ray-Bans, with no display functionality. However, he suggested the glasses will provide audio playback, record video, and support “AI environmental sensing,” “Multiple material options,” will be available for the “frames and temples.”
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