Apple Unveils Affordable, Colorful MacBook for Students

New low-cost laptop targets education market with A-series chip and vibrant design.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 10:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Apple is set to launch a new, more affordable version of the MacBook in the coming weeks. This colorful laptop is designed with students in mind, featuring an aluminum chassis in a range of fun hues and powered by Apple's A18 Pro chip. While not as powerful as the company's M-series chips, the A18 Pro should provide ample performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, document creation, and light photo/video editing.

Why it matters

Apple's new low-cost MacBook aims to compete with affordable Chromebook laptops often used in educational settings. By offering a more budget-friendly Mac option, the company hopes to expand its presence in the education market and provide students with a capable, versatile computing device.

The details

The new MacBook is expected to have a 12.9-inch or 13-inch display and come in a variety of colors, including yellow, green, blue, pink, silver, and dark gray. Rather than using one of Apple's own M-series chips, the laptop will be powered by the A18 Pro, a more efficient A-series processor first introduced in the iPhone 16 Pro. While not as powerful as the M4 chip in the latest MacBook Air, the A18 Pro should still offer sufficient performance for most student needs. The MacBook is also rumored to have at least 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, with the possibility of a 16GB RAM option.

  • The new low-cost MacBook is expected to be announced in the coming weeks, potentially at Apple's March 4 Special Event in New York, London, and Shanghai.
  • Select members of the media have been invited to the March 4 event, where they will likely have a chance to try out the new MacBook.

The players

Apple

The multinational technology company that designs, develops, and sells consumer electronics, computer software, and online services.

A18 Pro

Apple's latest A-series chip, featuring a 6-core CPU, 6-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine, which will power the new low-cost MacBook.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Apple's new low-cost MacBook could be a game-changer for students, providing them with a capable and affordable computing option.”

— Juli Clover, Reporter

What’s next

Apple is expected to officially announce the new low-cost MacBook in the coming weeks, potentially at its March 4 Special Event. The laptop will then likely be available for purchase shortly after the announcement.

The takeaway

By offering a more budget-friendly MacBook option, Apple is positioning itself to better compete with Chromebooks in the education market. The new laptop's colorful design, efficient A-series chip, and student-focused features could make it an attractive choice for schools and families looking for an affordable yet capable computing solution.