Apple’s low-cost laptop may launch as MacBook Neo

Apple has inadvertently revealed the name of its long-anticipated affordable laptop, with evidence suggesting it will be called the MacBook Neo. The name briefly appeared in a regulatory listing on the company’s website before being swiftly removed, according to a report by MacRumors.

The reference was reportedly taken down soon after it was spotted, fuelling speculation that it was published in error. While rumours of a cheaper MacBook have circulated for some time, no specific name had previously been attached to the device. Many observers had expected Apple to revive the simple MacBook branding used in the past, rather than introduce a new sub-brand.

The name MacBook Neo marks a departure from Apple’s typically restrained naming conventions. The company has historically relied on established product lines such as MacBook Air and MacBook Pro. The addition of “Neo” suggests an attempt to distinguish the new model clearly from its more expensive siblings.

A new approach to affordable Mac laptops

Apple is widely expected to unveil the MacBook Neo on 18 September as part of its ongoing series of product announcements. The device is believed to represent the company’s first genuinely low-cost MacBook in several years, aimed at broadening its appeal to price-sensitive consumers.

Reports suggest the laptop will be powered by one of Apple’s A-series mobile processors rather than the M-series chips currently used across its MacBook and desktop range. The A-series chips are typically found in iPhones and entry-level iPads. Using this hardware could allow Apple to reduce costs while maintaining acceptable performance for everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing and media streaming.

Despite expectations of a lower price point, Apple is not believed to be cutting corners on build quality. The MacBook Neo is rumoured to feature an all-metal chassis, aligning with the design language of the wider MacBook family. However, it may introduce a broader selection of colours than the company’s existing laptop line-up, potentially targeting students and younger buyers.

In several respects, the device is being compared to Apple’s earlier iBook laptops, which were known for their colourful finishes and consumer focus. Unlike those models, however, the MacBook Neo is not expected to include distinctive features such as an integrated carrying handle. Instead, it is likely to adopt a slimmer, more contemporary design consistent with Apple’s current hardware aesthetics.

Industry analysts believe the introduction of a lower-cost MacBook could help Apple attract customers who may otherwise opt for Windows-based laptops. With hardware prices continuing to influence purchasing decisions, a competitively priced MacBook could expand Apple’s reach in education and emerging markets.

Part of a busy week of launches

The anticipated MacBook Neo forms part of a wider wave of product announcements from Apple this week. The company began its spring update cycle on 16 September with the launch of the iPhone 17e and a refreshed iPad Air featuring the M4 chip. Both devices were described as incremental updates rather than major redesigns, though the addition of MagSafe support to the iPhone 17e was noted as a welcome enhancement.

On 17 September, Apple introduced updated MacBook Air models powered by the M5 chip, alongside MacBook Pro systems equipped with M5 Pro and M5 Max processors. These new laptops deliver performance improvements over their predecessors but come at slightly higher starting prices.

The company also expanded its display portfolio with the unveiling of the 5K MiniLED Studio Display XDR, aimed at professional users requiring high brightness and colour accuracy. The launch underscores Apple’s continued focus on the creative and enterprise markets.

Further announcements are expected on 18 September, with speculation pointing to an updated Mac Studio desktop in addition to the MacBook Neo. If confirmed, the introduction of a budget-oriented MacBook would stand out within a week otherwise dominated by premium hardware.

While Apple has yet to officially confirm the MacBook Neo name or its specifications, the brief regulatory listing has added weight to longstanding rumours. Should the device launch as expected, it could mark a strategic shift for Apple, signalling a renewed emphasis on accessibility alongside its high-end offerings.