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Apple rumored to release budget-friendly MacBook, causing panic among Windows 10 users

Affordable 12.9-inch MacBook on the horizon for $599; Microsoft braces for potential surge in users ditching Windows 10 due to its end-of-support.

Apple's upcoming low-cost MacBook stirring turmoil for Microsoft, as speculation mounts that...
Apple's upcoming low-cost MacBook stirring turmoil for Microsoft, as speculation mounts that Windows 10 users may opt for the new device

Apple rumored to release budget-friendly MacBook, causing panic among Windows 10 users

The tech world is abuzz with news about Apple's rumoured launch of a new MacBook, priced at an affordable $599. This announcement comes at an interesting time, as Microsoft prepares to end support for Windows 10 this fall, potentially shaking up the midrange Windows market.

According to reports, the new MacBook will boast a screen size of around 13-inches and will be powered by an Apple A18 Pro SoC, the same chip that powers the current iPhone 16 Pro. This marks a departure from the M-series chips Apple currently uses in its Macs, as it will be the first time an iPhone chip is used in a MacBook.

The laptop is expected to feature a 12.9-inch display, an ultra-thin and lightweight design, and come in a variety of fun colours. The MacBook's aggressive price point could position it as a strong competitor to midrange Windows laptops, which often occupy similar price segments but typically use Intel or AMD processors.

With its integration of Apple silicon and competitive pricing, the MacBook may attract users currently considering affordable Windows laptops, especially those interested in Apple's ecosystem and performance benefits. This competition could pressure Windows OEMs to innovate or revise pricing strategies to maintain market share in the midrange segment.

Regarding Windows 11 adoption, a more affordable MacBook luring users away from budget Windows laptops might slightly slow the growth of Windows 11 installations, especially if users choose Apple's ecosystem instead. However, Windows 11’s adoption is driven by broader enterprise and consumer factors beyond hardware pricing alone, so the overall impact on Windows 11 adoption is likely to be modest but noteworthy in the consumer laptop category.

In the meantime, Windows users who want a 2-in-1 form factor or touchscreen will still need to choose Windows laptops, as the new MacBook does not seem to offer these features.

The launch of a $599 MacBook is a potential challenge for Microsoft, who is eager to push Windows 10 users to Windows 11. Many Windows users have been unhappy with Microsoft's conduct around Windows 11, particularly regarding ads and bloat. Until now, new MacBooks from Apple have always costed upwards of $999, making this new budget offering a significant shift in strategy.

In summary, Apple’s rumoured $599 MacBook introduces a new, cheaper option in the Mac lineup that could disrupt the midrange Windows laptop market by offering comparable or better performance in a smaller, efficient package. This may cause some users to switch from Windows to macOS, potentially influencing Windows 11 adoption rates in the budget to midrange laptop segment.

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