MacBook Neo 2: Apple reportedly plans to focus on performance

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The MacBook Neo 2 is one of the upcoming Apple devices that has been the subject of much discussion long before its release. A possible MacBook Neo 2 with a touchscreen, in particular, has fueled a great deal of speculation. Initial reports suggested that Apple might introduce touch controls for the first time in the second generation of its affordable MacBook.

However, recent statements from analysts and industry insiders indicate that this assessment has changed significantly. The likelihood of a touchscreen has rapidly shifted from "possible" to "highly unlikely."

Apple has consistently refrained from including touchscreens in MacBooks. Instead, the company relies on the combination of trackpad, keyboard, and macOS. Touch operation remains exclusive to devices like the iPhone and iPad.

The current MacBook Neo is Apple's most affordable notebook, starting at just €699. It uses the A18 Pro chip and has 8 GB of RAM. While Apple could introduce new hardware with the second generation, a touchscreen seems increasingly unlikely.

Touchscreen rumors about the MacBook Neo 2

In September 2025, Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo stated that the MacBook Neo 2 might receive touch support. However, his statement was cautiously worded.

Shortly afterwards, Kuo qualified this assessment and explained that a touchscreen was not safe after all.

Mark Gurman of Bloomberg was even more explicit. In his newsletter "Power On," he stated that Apple has not yet decided whether touchscreen support will be extended to other Mac models at all.

His assessment of the MacBook Neo is correspondingly clear: He would be "shocked" if the Neo were to get a touchscreen within the next three years.

The reason: the low price

The main reason against a touchscreen is the price of the MacBook Neo. The device already starts at €699. A touchscreen would increase production costs, as additional display technology and sensors would be required. Even small additional costs could jeopardize the low entry price.

Therefore, it is considered likely that the MacBook Neo 2 will continue to be released without a touchscreen.

Expected improvements in the MacBook Neo 2

Nevertheless, a second generation of the MacBook Neo is expected. According to Ming-Chi Kuo, the device could be released as early as next year.

The most important upgrade is likely the A19 Pro chip. The current model still uses the A18 Pro.

Additionally, the RAM is expected to be increased from 8 GB to 12 GB. This could further improve the device's multitasking and everyday tasks.

MacBook Neo 2: More power instead of a touchscreen

A MacBook Neo 2 with a touchscreen is now considered highly unlikely. Analysts assume that Apple will not integrate this feature into its budget MacBook for the time being.

Instead, the second generation is expected to focus on increased performance and improved hardware. With an A19 Pro chip and 12 GB of RAM, the MacBook Neo 2 could still be a significant upgrade for Apple's most affordable MacBook line. (Image: Apple)