In 2024, we could see a low-cost Apple MacBook lineup to compete with Chromebooks. According to a report by DigiTimes citing industry sources, Apple is working on a new MacBook lineup focused on education, which could launch as early as the second half of 2024.
Apple is expected to introduce a new product lineup, different from the current MacBook Air and MacBook Pro devices. It may be that the alleged MacBook lineup cuts the costs of mechanical components and uses “different materials” for its outer metal casing.
More than 13.9 million Chromebooks were shipped in 2019, increasing to 30.4 million in 2020 and 33.5 million in 2021, respectively, the publication reported. Chromebook is a name used to refer to computers powered by ChromeOS, a Linux-based operating system developed by Google.
The first Chromebooks came from companies like Samsung and Acer in 2011. These were sub-$500 devices equipped with 3G capabilities, an Intel Atom processor, faster boot times, and up to 7 hours of battery life. In 2023, the Chromebook ecosystem now offers users various options.
With the Acer Chromebook Flip CX5, for example, users can choose an Intel Core i7 processor, up to 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD. Meanwhile, for those looking for a cheaper option, other options like the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 may be of interest. Users can get a Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 processor with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of eMMC storage for a price tag of $269.
Over the years, Apple’s eyes have focused on the education industry, as Apple regularly offers Back-to-School education discounts on its products and services. Students and teachers can buy Mac computers, iPads, Apple Pencil, Magic Keyboard and more at cheaper prices.