Rumors about the arrival of Apple's 'affordable' MacBook intensify.

      A rumored 12.9-inch MacBook featuring an iPhone-class chip may be launched by spring 2026.

      Towards the end of 2025, speculation about an affordable MacBook began to emerge. This model is believed to aim directly at competing with Chromebooks and budget Windows laptops, appealing to students, professionals, and casual users who prefer not to spend $1,000 on a basic MacBook. Currently, Taiwanese market research firm TrendForce suggests that this long-anticipated entry-level to mid-range MacBook might debut in spring 2026, potentially offering a fresh option for price-sensitive customers considering macOS.

      According to analysts, this device would sport a 12.9-inch display, which is slightly smaller than the current 13.6-inch MacBook Air, yet still adequate for productivity and daily tasks. Its size is comparable to some iPad Pro models, indicating that Apple might draw design inspiration from its tablet range to keep the new laptop slim and portable.

      Expected to feature an A18 Pro chip internally, this budget MacBook is likely to carry a competitive price externally.

      While official specifications have not yet been released, various reports indicate that the cost-effective MacBook will utilize a version of the A18 Pro chip, which is also found in the iPhone 16 Pro series. This decision seems strategic, as Apple’s A-series chips are well-regarded for their efficient performance, delivering smooth operation while conserving power in devices. Such efficiency might lead to impressive battery life and dependable daily usage without the added expense of Apple’s pricier M-series processors. There have been whispers about Apple possibly rekindling its relationship with Intel, but those discussions seem confined to entry-level M-series production rather than a return to Intel-branded chips or aspects related to the A-series.

      Employing an A-series chip isn't solely a cost-saving measure; it establishes a distinct performance tier between the iPad lineup and Apple’s more powerful MacBooks, providing the company with a new middle-ground offering. This could particularly attract students, first-time Mac users, or those who find the MacBook Air slightly too costly. Presently, Apple’s least expensive laptop is the MacBook Air, starting around $999. While it is an excellent option overall, it still falls short compared to many Windows alternatives in terms of value. A MacBook priced under $800 would considerably broaden Apple’s appeal, making macOS available to a much larger audience.

      At this time, Apple has not confirmed the existence of this budget MacBook nor shared details regarding its launch. However, with a spring 2026 timeline, an announcement could be imminent.

      Varun is a seasoned technology journalist and editor with over eight years of experience in consumer tech media.

      In another development, OpenAI is seeking someone to manage unpredictable risks associated with ChatGPT.

      The role emphasizes anticipating, testing, and mitigating real-world AI-related harms. OpenAI is making a significant investment in this position, titled Head of Preparedness, aimed at recognizing and alleviating the most serious threats posed by advanced AI chatbots. This position comes with a substantial compensation package of $555,000 plus equity. In a public statement about the opening, Sam Altman referred to it as “a critical role at an important time,” highlighting that while AI models can accomplish “many great things,” they’re also “beginning to present some genuine challenges.”

      The year 2026 is anticipated to bring faster laptops, albeit at the expense of memory.

      The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) has always been a pivotal platform for showcasing new laptops. It serves as a significant indicator of broader industry trends and directions for the upcoming months. CES 2026 is expected to uphold this tradition. Early indications suggest that next year’s laptops will focus on performance enhancements across various platforms, designs, and price points. Central to this development are new mobile CPUs, including Intel’s forthcoming Core Ultra Series 3, known by its codename Panther Lake, AMD’s Gorgon Point with the new Ryzen AI 400 series, and Qualcomm’s second-generation Snapdragon X2.

      You can now experience the Windows phone OS that Microsoft never released.

      This is an insight into Microsoft's abandoned Andromeda OS.

      Initially, before the Surface Duo was launched with Android, Microsoft intended for it to operate on a custom Windows version called Andromeda OS, specifically designed for dual-screen devices. That plan was quietly abandoned years ago. However, due to a leaked build and considerable developer efforts, you can now explore what Microsoft was developing and even try it out yourself.