Meet the MacBook Neo, Apple’s colorful answer to the Chromebook, starting at $599

On Wednesday, Apple introduced the MacBook Neo, its new affordable laptop designed to compete with the Chromebook market. Priced from $599, this device targets students and casual users who do not require high-performance capabilities like video editing or 3D rendering. The MacBook Neo features a 13-inch display and is available in four eye-catching colors: silver, blush, citrus, and indigo. The base model includes 256GB of storage, while a $699 upgrade offers 512GB along with Touch ID functionality. This new laptop is powered by the A18 Pro chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 16 Pro, allowing Apple to keep costs down compared to the pricier M5 chip used in the latest MacBook Air. According to Apple, the MacBook Neo excels at everyday tasks, providing up to 50% faster performance for web browsing and up to three times the speed for on-device AI processes, such as applying advanced photo effects, when compared to leading PCs equipped with Intel Core Ultra 5 chips. Equipped with a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, dual microphones, and side-firing speakers that enhance the Spatial Audio experience, the laptop aims to deliver quality sound and video capabilities. Apple claims the MacBook Neo's battery life can reach up to 16 hours on a single charge, utilizing one of its two USB-C ports, and also includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. The device utilizes a 5-core GPU and a 16-core Neural Engine, which facilitate gaming and on-device AI tasks similar to those on a recent iPhone. Notably, the MacBook Neo operates without a fan, ensuring silent performance, much like the MacBook Air. As Apple grapples with a RAM shortage that has driven up prices for its premium models, the MacBook Neo is poised to attract users who seek essential features without the need for high-end specifications—ideal for those who may even be tempted by its stylish pink option.