New MacBook Neo offers premium features at a breakthrough price
Budget-friendly computing has entered a new era with Apple's latest hardware announcement. Breaking away from its premium-only reputation, the tech giant has introduced the MacBook Neo, a device specifically engineered to capture the entry-level market. With a starting price of just Rs 69,900, this release marks a significant shift in strategy, undercuting the updated MacBook Air by a wide margin. This move directly challenges the dominance of Windows-based laptops and Chromebooks in educational and domestic settings across India.
Design-wise, this new laptop takes inspiration from the playful aesthetics of the iPad Air and iMac. Users can choose from striking shades like Citrus, Indigo, and Blush, in addition to the traditional Silver finish. Despite the lower cost, the build quality remains high, featuring a fanless design housed within a recycled aluminum frame. The 13-inch Liquid Retina display provides 500 nits of brightness, ensuring a crisp visual experience for daily tasks, even if it lacks the high-refresh rates of the "Pro" lineup.
Unexpectedly, the MacBook Neo utilizes the A18 Pro silicon, the same powerful chip found in the iPhone 16 Pro series. This processor features a 6-core CPU and a 5-core GPU, paired with 8GB of RAM. Storage options range from 256GB to 512GB. While it skips the M-series chips found in more expensive models, the efficiency of the A18 Pro allows for up to 16 hours of video playback. The device charges via USB-C, with a 20W power adapter included in the retail packaging.
To achieve this aggressive price point, certain luxury features have been omitted. The keyboard lacks backlighting, and the port selection is limited to two USB-C connections without MagSafe support. Additionally, the audio system uses a dual-speaker setup rather than the quad-speakers found on the Air. Security via Touch ID is reserved only for the higher-tier 512GB storage model. Interested buyers in Odisha and across India can place pre-orders immediately through official channels. The base model is priced at Rs 69,900, while the 512GB version retails for Rs 79,900. General retail availability is scheduled to begin on March 11, 2026.
