Apple could soon launch a MacBook with an iPhone chip, according to recently discovered backend code. It's the A18 Pro chip, currently found in the iPhone 16 Pro. If this turns out to be true, it would be the first time Apple has used an A-series chip in a Mac. Until now, Macs have exclusively used M-series chips.
The information comes from two sources: First, from Apple's own code, which MacRumors has now discovered . Second, from Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who is now, for the first time, concretely reporting on a planned MacBook with the A18 Pro. Both clues point in the same direction: Apple is planning a new, affordable MacBook that clearly differentiates itself from its current portfolio. This could be exciting for many users – especially if the price is right.
MacBook with iPhone chip: What's behind it?
The key innovation is the built-in processor. The A18 Pro was introduced with the iPhone 16 Pro in 2024. It is based on an energy-efficient ARM design and is optimized for smartphone use. There could be several reasons why Apple is now testing it in a MacBook: lower energy consumption, low manufacturing costs, and a clear distinction from the more powerful M series. Until now, Apple has used only M series chips in all of its Macs – such as the M1, M2, M3, or M4. Although these are also based on the ARM architecture, they offer more processing cores, more RAM, and significantly better support for external displays. The A18 Pro would therefore be a step backward in terms of pure performance, but possibly a gain in terms of price-performance ratio.
Model identifier “Mac17,1” found in code
MacRumors reports that the model identifier "Mac17,1" had already appeared in the backend code of Apple Intelligence. This was a previously unknown device that clearly distinguished itself from previous Macs due to the chip it used. The assignment to the A18 Pro chip was later confirmed. This confirms that Apple is indeed internally testing a MacBook with this chip.
Possible equipment and design
According to Kuo, the device will have a 13-inch display and be available in several colors – specifically, silver, blue, pink, and yellow are being discussed. This fits with Apple's strategy of differentiating lower-cost models with color variants, similar to the iMac or iPad. Whether the case will be redesigned or based on an existing MacBook Air design is still unclear. The target audience could be broad: schoolchildren, students, or users looking for a lightweight device for office, web, and media use. It's unlikely to be intended for computing-intensive tasks or professional applications.
Start of production and possible market launch
According to Ming-Chi Kuo, production is scheduled to begin in late fourth quarter 2025 or early first quarter 2026. This means a market launch is expected in the first half of 2026. A specific date or price range has not yet been announced. If Apple sets the price significantly below that of the MacBook Air, the new model could fill a gap in the lower price segment that Apple has largely left open so far.
iPhone chip in the Mac: Apple breaks with conventions
Apple is apparently working on a MacBook equipped with an A18 Pro chip—a processor originally developed for the iPhone 16 Pro. The move is unusual, but understandable: lower costs, lower performance requirements, and a broader target audience. Initial clues in the code, supplemented by statements from Ming-Chi Kuo, support these assumptions. With a 13-inch display, multiple color options, and a planned launch in 2026, the device could be of interest to many looking for an affordable, simple MacBook. Many details are still unclear, but the direction is clear: Apple wants to break new ground with the A18 Pro in the MacBook. (Image: Shutterstock / Chonlatee42)
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