Apple announced the MacBook Neo, a new entry-level laptop priced at $599 that represents the company's most affordable MacBook offering. The device is powered by the A18 Pro chip, the same processor that launched in Apple's iPhone 16 lineup two years ago.

The MacBook Neo is available in multiple colors and is positioned to compete directly with Chromebooks and budget Windows laptops. This marks Apple's first significant entry into the lower-cost laptop market, where devices like Chromebooks have traditionally dominated.

The new laptop replaces the previous $599 M1 MacBook Air in Apple's lineup as older M-series MacBooks are being phased out. Industry observers note that while the MacBook Air has occasionally seen price drops, the Neo represents a more permanent positioning in the budget segment.

Preorders for the MacBook Neo begin Wednesday, with the device becoming available to consumers next week. Apple held demonstration events in London and other locations where technology journalists were able to get hands-on experience with the new laptop.

The launch comes as part of a broader product announcement week for Apple, which also included the introduction of other devices including the iPhone 17e. The MacBook Neo's introduction signals Apple's strategy to expand its market reach by offering more accessible pricing while maintaining its design and build quality standards.