Apple could bring back compact MacBook with new 12.9-inch model - All details

Apple may be preparing a smaller and cheaper MacBook that brings iPhone-level efficiency to laptops. Here’s everything you need to know.

Apple may be planning to expand its MacBook range with a new model, which aims to appeal to users who want a smaller laptop at a lower cost. A report from market research firm TrendForce suggests the company is working on a compact MacBook with a 12.9-inch screen. The device could arrive in spring 2026 and sit below the MacBook Air in Apple’s lineup.

Apple may introduce a smaller, lower-priced MacBook in 2026 to offer users a more affordable laptop option. (Bloomberg)

By MD Ijaj Khan

Ijaj Khan is a technology journalist and Senior Content Producer at Hindustan Times, with over three years of experience covering the consumer technology industry. His work spans smartphones, laptops, wearables, gaming, appliances and AI - from hands-on reviews, comparison and buying guides to breaking news and in-depth features that help readers cut through the noise and make informed decisions. Before joining HT Tech, he worked with Jagran New Media, where he sharpened his instincts for fast-paced digital reporting. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma in English Journalism and Mass Communication from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi. Whether he's testing the latest flagship smartphone, tracking a major AI announcement, or putting a gaming laptop through its paces, Ijaj approaches every story with the same goal - making technology feel relevant and easy to understand for everyday users, not just enthusiasts. When he's not in front of a screen for work, he's usually travelling to a new city, hunting for great food, or keeping tabs on what's next in tech before everyone else catches on.

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If the report is accurate, the move would mark Apple’s return to smaller notebooks after it stopped selling the 12-inch MacBook several years ago. That earlier model focused on portability but struggled to meet performance expectations at the time. The upcoming model may take a different approach by balancing size, power use, and pricing.

The screen size would be slightly smaller than the 13.6-inch display on the current MacBook Air. However, narrow screen borders could allow Apple to keep the overall body close to standard laptop dimensions. This would make the device easier to carry while still offering enough space for everyday tasks such as browsing, writing, and video streaming.

iPhone Chip at the Core

TrendForce reports that Apple may use the A18 Pro chip, which also powers the iPhone 16 Pro series. This would be a shift from the M-series processors used in current MacBooks. Even so, early performance estimates indicate that the chip could deliver a clear improvement over the Intel processors used in older compact MacBooks. Single-core output is expected to be much higher, while multi-core results may come close to the first M1 chip in light workloads.

Focus on Battery Life and Price

Pricing has not been confirmed. However, the report suggests Apple may place the model below the MacBook Air, which starts at around $799 (roughly Rs. 71,921) in some regions. Lower component costs could help Apple manage pricing as memory costs rise.

Analysts also point to expected price pressure in the laptop market in 2026 due to supply issues linked to AI-related demand. A lower-priced MacBook could help Apple maintain its position during that period. Apple has not commented on the report.