Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has reignited rumors about Apple's potential launch of an affordable MacBook series in response to declining MacBook shipments. These affordable MacBooks are anticipated to arrive in late 2024, distinguishing themselves from the MacBook Air and Pro lines.
Kuo's prediction aligns with Apple's upcoming "Scary Fast" event on October 30th, hinting at multiple M3 chip variants, for the new 13-inch, 14-inch, and 16-inch MacBook Pro models.
While Kuo initially foresaw no new MacBook Pro models in 2023, he now suggests a late 2023 release, leading into early 2024. The reasoning behind this shift is the limited computing power upgrade in the M2, pushing Apple to introduce more powerful M3 MacBook Pro models. If these M3 models fail to revive MacBook shipments, Apple may turn to an "affordable MacBook" to bolster its lineup.
Reports speculate that these affordable MacBooks will undergo design changes to achieve their lower price point, with a possible return of the 12-inch MacBook. Although it was discontinued in 2019, the adoption of Apple silicon processors has surfaced rumors of its resurgence.
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman initially hinted at its return, and recent reports suggest ongoing production activities. However, whether this activity aligns with the low-cost MacBook concept remains to be confirmed.
