Apple to roll out entry-level MacBook in September

Aug 19, 2018

Apple is scheduled to roll out its entry-level MacBook series featuring Intel's 14nm Kaby Lake processor in September's product launch conference. The model is expected to be priced at US$1,200, according to industry sources.

In addition to the new inexpensive notebook, the US-based vendor is also expected to unveil three new iPhones: one featuring a 5.8-inch OLED display, one with a 6.5-inch OLED display and one with a 6.1-inch LCD display in September. The 6.1-inch LCD model is expected to be the most price-friendly and the mainstream device.

Apple is also expected to announce the launch schedule for its wireless charger AirPower for new iPhones during the conference with a price point at around NT$5,000-6,000 (US$161-193).

For the tablet, Apple reportedly has prepared two new iPad Pros: a 12.9-inch one and an 11-inch one, with the 11-inch iPad Pro set to take over the existing 10.5-inch iPad Pro. Starting the fourth quarter, Apple will have a total of four iPads available in the channel, the narrow-bezel ultra-thin 12.9-inch and 11-inch iPad Pros; the 9.7-inch entry-level iPad and the 7.9-inch iPad mini 4.

The two new iPad Pros will come with a newly-designed 18W power adapter featuring USB Type-C interface for a faster charging experience. Apple so far has no further plan for the iPad mini series.

The 13-inch inexpensive MacBook was originally set to be released in the fourth quarter of 2017, but has been delayed due to Intel's issues with its 10nm manufacturing process.

With Intel deciding to wait until the second half of 2019 to begin manufacturing 10nm CPUs, Apple has switched the MacBook design to adopt processors based on improved 14nm Kaby Lake architecture.

The inexpensive MacBook is estimated to have a shipment volume of around eight million units in 2018 and is expected to undermine demand for first-tier competitors' similar devices.

Source: Digitimes