Apple is already testing a refreshed version of its most affordable laptop, the MacBook Neo, aiming to resolve the multitasking bottlenecks that plagued the first generation. The upcoming model is expected to feature the A19 Pro chip and a crucial memory upgrade to support local Apple Intelligence tasks.
According to a report by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the second-generation MacBook Neo will move away from the binned A18 Pro chip and 8GB of unified memory found in the current model. Previous reports indicate the new machine will feature 12GB of memory. This upgrade is not just for smoother browsing; 12GB is the minimum requirement to run advanced Apple Intelligence features locally on macOS.
The memory bump could significantly impact the laptop's affordability. The original MacBook Neo launched at $599 in March, before rising memory costs pushed the base price to $699 in June. While the new model will likely remain cheaper than the MacBook Air, maintaining that sub-$700 price tag may prove difficult as component requirements increase.
Furthermore, it remains unclear if Apple will address other hardware compromises, such as the non-backlit keyboard, mechanical trackpad, and inconsistent USB speeds. The refresh is slated for a spring 2027 launch alongside the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e, and will reportedly introduce new color options.
Other Notable Tech & Apple Updates
- OLED MacBooks and iMacs: Bloomberg reports that Apple is developing OLED versions of the MacBook Air and iMac, following the anticipated OLED MacBook Pro. The OLED MacBook Air could arrive by 2028.
- AI Emotional Support: A joint study by the University of Manchester and Durham University involving 1,233 participants found that AI chatbots like ChatGPT-4o, Claude 3.5 Sonnet, and Gemini 1.5 Pro can match or outperform humans in providing emotional support for everyday problems.
- MouthPad Public Release: Augmental has officially launched public US sales for the MouthPad, a tongue-controlled computer mouse built into a retainer, alongside a beta release of its hands-free typing wearable, Vox.
The Hidden Cost of Apple Intelligence
The rumored 12GB memory baseline for the next MacBook Neo highlights a significant shift in Apple's hardware strategy: AI is effectively killing the ultra-budget Mac. When the original Neo launched at $599, it was a triumph of cost-cutting, but the strict hardware requirements for on-device Apple Intelligence mean those days are over.
By tying core macOS features to a 12GB minimum, Apple is forcing its entry-level tier to absorb higher component costs. If the Neo's price creeps closer to $799, it risks cannibalizing the lower end of the MacBook Air market, forcing consumers to decide whether a few AI tricks are worth losing the Air's superior trackpad and backlit keyboard.
