Apple is reportedly working on developing a new series of low-cost MacBooks specifically designed for education purpose.
The new MacBook is expected to be priced significantly lower than the entry-level MacBook Air, according to a report from DigiTimes. It is suggested that Apple is aiming to compete with Chromebooks in this market. The launch of these new MacBook models is expected to take place in the second half of 2024.
Currently, Apple has two MacBook lineups – Air and Pro. The Air comes in two sizes – 13 inches and 15 inches, and there are two chip configurations available – M1 and M2 chip, starting at $999 or Rs 99,9900. Then, there is the MacBook Pro lineup, which includes three sizes – 13 inches, 14 inches, and 16 inches, and it comes in three chip configurations – M2, M2 Pro, and M2 Max, starting at $1,199.
Citing sources, the report suggests that Apple wants to introduce the low-cost MacBooks to differentiate between its existing MacBook Air and Pro lineup. The low-cost MacBook would look similar to the Air and Pro models, using the same metal casing but would use different materials for other components, which should bring the price down, allowing for an affordable price tag, targeting the education sector.
It is tough to say when this low-cost MacBook will launch. The report suggests a 2024 launch window for the said mode, but it might not arrive before the second half of the year.
According to DigiTimes research, the number of Chromebooks shipped has significantly increased from 13.9 million in 2019 to 30.4 million in 2020 and 33.5 million in 2021. While it shows Google’s affordable laptops have gained popularity in education, Chromebook shipments have slowed since the end of lockdowns, though the number of shipments is still higher than pre-COVID levels, as the increasing number of educational institutions that have adopted Chromebooks over the last few years has seen rapid growth.
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