Apple may have just confirmed the name of its long-rumoured low-cost MacBook — and it looks like it could be called MacBook Neo.
According to a regulatory filing spotted by MacRumors, a product listed as “MacBook Neo” (model A3404) briefly appeared on Apple’s website, suggesting the company may have prematurely revealed the branding of its upcoming entry-level laptop.
The discovery comes just hours after Apple unveiled updated versions of the MacBook Pro with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips, alongside a refreshed MacBook Air powered by M5. Those machines target power users and mainstream buyers respectively — but Apple is also widely expected to introduce a more affordable Mac aimed at students, switchers and everyday users.
Reports in recent weeks have suggested the new low-cost MacBook would sit below the MacBook Air in Apple’s lineup, potentially priced under $700. It is tipped to run on an iPhone-class A18 Pro chip rather than an M-series processor, helping Apple keep costs down while still delivering solid performance for web browsing, streaming, schoolwork and light productivity tasks.
The machine is also expected to feature a 12.9-inch display and launch in a range of colourful finishes, echoing the playful positioning of Apple’s consumer devices. Bloomberg previously reported that internally, Apple views the device as an “incredible value” product, designed to attract Windows PC and Chromebook users — and possibly first-time Mac buyers who already own an iPhone.
If the regulatory listing proves accurate, “MacBook Neo” would mark the first time Apple has revived the standalone “MacBook” branding since it discontinued the 12-inch MacBook in 2019. The “Neo” suffix would clearly distinguish it from the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro families.
Apple is expected to formally announce the device this Wednesday as part of its multi-day product rollout leading into its March 4 “special Apple Experience” for media in New York, London and Shanghai.
As always with regulatory leaks, nothing is confirmed until Apple makes it official — but if the listing is genuine, MacBook Neo could soon become Apple’s most affordable laptop in years.
