According to Techmeme, Apple is currently testing a new low-cost Mac priced under $1,000 that would use iPhone-class chips instead of M-series processors. Despite using mobile-grade silicon, these machines would still outperform early M1 Macs while expanding Apple’s entry-level lineup without hurting Air and Pro average selling prices. The development comes alongside Google’s proposed settlement with Epic that includes reduced app store fees globally and a new program making alternative app stores first-class Android citizens. Industry analyst Austin Lyons noted this follows Apple pulling out of automotive projects, slow-rolling XR development, and avoiding smart-home and wearable ring categories.
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Why this makes sense now
Here‘s the thing – Apple‘s running out of obvious growth levers. They killed the car project, the Vision Pro is basically a niche product for developers and enthusiasts, and they’ve been hesitant to jump into crowded markets like smart home or wearables beyond the Watch. So what’s left? Making their existing product lines more accessible. A sub-$1,000 Mac that doesn’t feel like a compromise could be huge for students, budget-conscious professionals, and emerging markets. It’s basically Apple admitting that not everyone can drop $1,200+ on a laptop.
The chip strategy is brilliant
Using iPhone-class chips instead of M-series processors is actually pretty clever. Apple’s A-series chips are already incredibly powerful – the A17 Pro in current iPhones probably could handle most basic computing tasks without breaking a sweat. And by using existing silicon designs, Apple avoids the R&D costs of developing entirely new chips. They’re basically repurposing technology they’ve already perfected. The performance beating early M1 Macs? That’s not even surprising when you consider how much Apple’s silicon has advanced since 2020.
What this means for the market
This could seriously shake up the PC landscape. Chromebooks and budget Windows laptops have dominated the sub-$1,000 space for years, but none of them offer the Mac experience. If Apple can deliver a Mac that starts at $799 or $899 without feeling cheap? Game changer. As Ben Bajarin and other analysts have discussed, Apple’s been missing this price point forever. Meanwhile, over in Android land, Payton Dev and Max Winebach have been tracking how Google’s settlement with Epic might create more competition. It’s like both major platforms are realizing they need to be more accessible.
But when will we see it?
The big question is timing. Apple’s been rumored to be working on a cheaper Mac for what feels like forever. Lex and other watchers have noted that Apple’s product roadmap has been unusually fluid lately. With the car project dead and mixed reception to the Vision Pro, they might accelerate this. Could we see something by back-to-school season? Or will they wait for a bigger event? Either way, this feels like Apple playing it safe – and honestly, that might be exactly what they need right now.
