Kota Kinabalu (March 6) - Apple Inc. has introduced a new entry-level laptop in Malaysia with the launch of the MacBook Neo, offering a more affordable gateway into the Mac ecosystem. The device is positioned as Apple’s most accessible MacBook so far, aimed at students, casual users, and those looking for a lower-cost Apple laptop.
The MacBook Neo starts at RM2,499, making it more than RM2,000 cheaper than many of the company’s existing MacBook models currently on the market. Two configurations are available: 8GB RAM with 256GB storage priced at RM2,499, and 8GB RAM with 512GB storage priced at RM2,899. The higher storage variant also includes Touch ID support.
Education pricing further reduces the cost for eligible buyers. Under the education programme, the 256GB model is priced at RM2,099, while the 512GB version is available for RM2,499.
Powered by iPhone-Class Chip
Unlike premium MacBook models that use Apple’s M-series processors, the MacBook Neo is powered by the Apple A18 Pro chipset, a processor originally designed for iPhone devices. Despite this, the chip is capable of handling everyday computing tasks such as web browsing, productivity software, and media consumption while maintaining power efficiency.
The laptop features a 13-inch Liquid Retina display with a resolution of 2408 × 1506 pixels and brightness reaching 500 nits. It also comes with Apple’s Magic Keyboard, a multi-touch trackpad, and runs on macOS.
As a more affordable model, several premium features have been simplified. The keyboard does not include backlighting, the base version does not come with Touch ID, and the display uses the standard sRGB colour range rather than the wider P3 colour support found in higher-end MacBook models.
Battery and Connectivity
The MacBook Neo is equipped with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 6 connectivity. It includes two USB-C ports, one supporting USB 3 speeds while the other operates at USB 2 speeds.
Powering the device is a 36.5Wh battery, which is rated for up to 16 hours of video streaming or about 11 hours of wireless web browsing. Charging is handled via a 20W USB-C adapter, similar to the charger commonly used for iPhones.
Additional hardware features include a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, dual microphones for improved audio recording, and dual side-firing speakers with Spatial Audio support.
The laptop weighs about 1.23kg and features an aluminium body that is similar in size to the MacBook Air 13-inch model.
Sustainability Focus
Apple has also highlighted the MacBook Neo’s environmentally conscious design. The device is produced using 60% recycled materials, including 90% recycled aluminium for its enclosure and 100% recycled cobalt in the battery.
The manufacturing process uses a material-efficient forming method that reduces aluminium usage, while the packaging is made from fully recyclable fibre-based materials.
For Sabahans, the arrival of the MacBook Neo introduces a more affordable option for those interested in entering Apple’s computing ecosystem. With its lower price compared to traditional MacBook models, the laptop could appeal to students, freelancers, and professionals who require reliable computing devices but may have been priced out of Apple’s previous offerings.
The device’s lightweight design and long battery life may also benefit users in Sabah who rely on portable laptops for remote work, online learning, and digital business activities. As digital connectivity continues to grow across the state, more affordable laptops such as the MacBook Neo could support greater participation in the digital economy, particularly among younger users and small entrepreneurs.