Apple is tipped to launch low-cost MacBook, will it cost less than Rs 30,000?

Can't afford Apple MacBooks? Well, a fresh report from DigiTimes claims that the tech giant is planning to launch a low-cost laptop to take on Google's Chromebooks and multiple entry-level Windows laptops. It is being said that this MacBook could be announced as early as the second half of 2024. Now, Apple already sells laptops that are priced around Rs 80,000 and above. So, what could be the price of the ultra-affordable MacBook?

If you look at the Chromebooks sold on Flipkart and Amazon, you will see that the majority of them are priced under the Rs 30,000 segment. So, does this mean Apple will also price its low-cost MacBook in a similar range because the Chromebooks are targeted at those who have a low budget and want a laptop for educational or other casual purposes? Well, the report didn't reveal the exact price range, but it seems unlikely for Apple to sell a laptop this low.

When people heard of Apple launching its first low-cost iPhone in the SE series, there was quite a lot of excitement. However, it was not as affordable for everyone, which disappointed some people who had set expectations lower than Rs 30,000. The first generation iPhone SE was launched in India for Rs 39,000 and the second version was announced in the country for Rs 42,500. The iPhone SE 3 was introduced in 2022 for Rs 43,900. While the price didn't justify the budget features that these phones offered, several people still bought them because many wanted to have an iPhone.

So, the price isn't expected to be less than Rs 30,000 for the rumoured budget Apple laptop. The company could make its affordable MacBook available at a bit higher price than the Chromebooks, and people might still buy it because first, it will be an Apple product. People will get brand assurance as well as a quality product. Additionally, it will be easier for iPhone users to quickly transfer files using AirDrop, sync calls or messages on a MacBook, use the phone as a webcam for the laptop, and more.

If Apple is really planning to take on Chromebooks to target low-budget users, then the price might be between Rs 45,000 to Rs 60,000. The current cheaper MacBooks are in the Air series and the price starts from around Rs 80,000. But, since Apple hasn't yet given confirmation of the existence of an ultra-affordable laptop, users are advised to take the details with a pinch of salt.

It is way too early for Apple to confirm, considering the leak says the budget Apple MacBook will arrive in the second half of 2024. This is more than a year away. But, one doesn't need to feel disheartened as Apple is preparing to announce the new iPhone 15 series on September 12, which is Tuesday next week. So, Apple fans still have something to be excited about. You can stay tuned to India Today Tech for all the updates.