The MacBook Air series could be eclipsed by a low-cost MacBook that has been reported on multiple occasions to be equipped with an A18 Pro, which is the same chipset powering the previous-generation iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. However, an internal kernel debug kit suggests that Apple was testing its affordable portable Mac with an A15 Bionic, a silicon found in the iPhone 13 family. Assuming this SoC ended up powering an actual retail unit, it would be slower than Apple’s current affordable iPad, which ships with an A16.
Backend code previously revealed that the low-cost MacBook would feature an A18 Pro; evidence of an A15 Bionic was likely present for evaluation purposes
An internal iOS 26 build leak has provided a roadmap of a multitude of chipsets and products that are under development. Additionally, a kernel debug kit used by engineers revealed some valuable information surrounding the low-cost MacBook. According to details posted by MacRumors, there is a line showing a project label ‘mac14p’ on a platform labeled ‘H14P. Based on a thorough investigation, this appears to be the A15 Bionic-powered version of the MacBook featuring the codename J267.
There is another MacBook with evidence showing that it is tied to the A18 Pro, featuring the identifier J700 along with a ‘Sunrise’ wireless subsystem attributed to MediaTek. The version with the newer chipset appears to be the one that will enter production soon, since evidence in the backend code suggested so. Also, it is not typical for Apple to repurpose a near-five-year-old SoC to be utilized in a brand-new product. The A18 Pro is significantly more capable and will last for much longer, not to mention that customers who have some technical knowledge will be livid over the company’s decision to use an aging chipset.
Previous reports have stated that the low-cost MacBook will ship with a 12.9-inch display, but we have mentioned that this machine will likely stick with the same screen size as the 13-inch MacBook Air, as it will save Apple substantial sums of money by using a panel that has been on the production line for years. We also expect the portable Mac to launch in the first quarter of 2026 and could arrive in multiple colors to appeal to the younger crowd.
About the author: Omar Sohail is a reporter and analyst for Wccftech's mobile section, specializing in the technology and business of the mobile industry. His expertise lies in the intricate hardware supply chain, covering developments in semiconductor manufacturing, chip lithography, and camera sensor technology.
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