In a move that could reshape the budget laptop market, Apple Inc. is reportedly working on a new low-cost Mac laptop, aimed squarely at competing with Chromebooks and entry-level Windows PCs. According to early industry reports, the device internally codenamed “Apple Ghost” is expected to launch in early 2026.
A New Strategy for Apple
Sources familiar with the project suggest that Apple’s new laptop will be positioned below the current MacBook Air, making it the company’s most affordable notebook to date. The goal: to provide schools, students, and budget-conscious users with a Mac experience at a more accessible price point.
The project marks a significant shift for Apple, which has traditionally focused on the premium segment of the laptop market. This time, Apple appears to be targeting the education sector, an area where Chromebooks from HP, Dell, and Lenovo currently dominate due to their lower costs and cloud-based functionality.
What We Know So Far
While the new Mac is still in early development, several key details have emerged:
- The device is being developed under the codename “Apple Ghost.”
- It will likely run on Apple’s in-house silicon chips, continuing the company’s full transition away from Intel processors.
- Apple aims to reduce manufacturing costs without compromising the design quality and performance standards associated with its brand.
- The release window is tentatively set for the first half of 2026, although that could shift depending on supply chain and production factors.
Insiders note that the device will focus on durability and longevity, two features that could make it an appealing choice for schools looking for reliable machines that last multiple academic years.
Competing in a Crowded Market
For Apple, this new venture represents an attempt to reclaim ground in the education market, where the company was once dominant. Over the past decade, Apple’s presence in schools has declined as Chromebooks gained widespread adoption thanks largely to their affordability and integration with Google’s education tools.
Currently, Apple’s entry-level MacBook Air starts at $999, a steep price compared to many Chromebooks that sell for $250–$400. By introducing a lower-cost Mac, Apple could finally close that pricing gap and attract a younger generation of users into its ecosystem earlier.
Looking Ahead
Industry observers view this project as a strategic pivot for Apple, aligning the company’s hardware roadmap with its long-term services strategy. By making Macs more accessible, Apple could expand its user base for services like iCloud, Apple Music, and Apple TV+, which contribute significantly to the company’s growing revenue streams.
However, challenges remain. Maintaining Apple’s hallmark design quality while keeping costs down will be no small feat. Production expenses, component pricing, and logistics could all influence the final retail cost and even the feasibility of the product’s release timeline.
If successful, though, the “Apple Ghost” could mark a major turning point for Apple, positioning the Mac lineup as not only a premium choice but also a practical option for students and budget-minded consumers.
