Apple introduced the MacBook Neo, a budget-friendly laptop, marking its first competition against Google’s Chromebook in a similar market segment. Priced at $599, the MacBook Neo is designed for students or users with basic needs, avoiding demanding tasks like video editing. It features a 13-inch display and is available in four colors: silver, blush, citrus, and indigo. The entry model offers 256GB of storage, with a $699 version providing 512GB and Touch ID.
The MacBook Neo operates on the A18 Pro chip, also found in the iPhone 16 Pro, allowing Apple to offer a lower price than models using the more expensive M5 chip. It excels in routine activities, with Apple claiming it performs everyday tasks 50% faster and AI workloads three times faster compared to leading Intel-based PCs.
Equipped with a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, dual microphones, and speakers supporting Spatial Audio, the MacBook Neo promises up to 16 hours of battery life via its two USB-C ports. A 3.5mm headphone jack is included. The laptop boasts a 5-core GPU and a 16-core Neural Engine, enabling advanced gameplay and AI tasks without a fan, ensuring quiet operation.
With RAM shortages impacting the prices of more advanced models like the MacBook Pro, the MacBook Neo appeals to those needing fewer features—or to anyone charmed by its pink color option.