Apple is doubling production of its latest and cheapest MacBook, the MacBook Neo, as demand outpaces initial expectations. The company originally planned to build around 5-6 million units, but now has a target of 10 million units for its first generation alone.
To support the ramp-up, Apple has ordered a fresh batch of A18 Pro chips from TSMC after its stock of iPhone‑grade processors started to run low. This also means that the MacBook Neo will continue to ship with the same iPhone 16 Pro Max’s A18 Pro chipset it launched with.
The 13-inch MacBook Neo launched in March as Apple’s most affordable Mac notebook, starting at $599. The model’s combination of price, form factor, and modern Apple silicon has driven strong interest from students and first‑time Mac buyers. Retail channels and Apple’s online store show extended shipping times in many regions due to low supply.
But there is one issue: The production ramp‑up introduces new cost pressures. Apple is now using new chip wafers from TSMC instead of mostly “free” recycled chips, which is raising its chip costs. At the same time, prices for components like DRAM and aluminum are rising.
This could mean that Apple has less room for discounts and could even consider a future price increase. In addition, assembly partners in Vietnam and China now need to hit higher throughput targets as Apple tries to better match supply with ongoing MacBook Neo demand.
