Apple intros the MacBook Neo: The "budget MacBook" with A18 Pro chip, 13-inch display at Php 39,990

Apple released the MacBook Neo laptop in the Philippines today for a starting price of Php 39,990. The new device features a 13-inch Liquid Retina display and the A18 Pro chip, the same chip seen on iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max. This model targets users who need portable performance and integrated artificial intelligence tools.

The A18 Pro chip includes a 16-core Neural Engine and a 5-core GPU to handle daily tasks and AI workloads. The 13-inch Liquid Retina display delivers a 2408-by-1506 resolution and 500 nits of brightness. An anti-reflective layer improves screen visibility across different environments. Apple states the system operates up to 50 percent faster than the most popular PC with an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor.

The MacBook Neo utilizes a fanless design for completely silent operation and runs on the macOS Tahoe operating system. It weighs 2.7 pounds and comes in an aluminum enclosure with blush, indigo, silver, and citrus color options. The laptop features a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, a Magic Keyboard, and a Multi-Touch trackpad. Connectivity options include two USB-C ports, a headphone jack, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 6.

Users gain access to Apple Intelligence tools like Live Translation and Continuity features for iPhone integration. The laptop supports Handoff and a dedicated screen tool to control a mobile phone from the Mac display. For audio, the device includes dual side-firing speakers with Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos. Dual microphones feature directional beamforming to isolate the user's voice and reduce background noise during calls.

Apple built the device with 60 percent recycled materials and uses 100 percent recycled cobalt for the battery. The manufacturing process uses 45 percent renewable electricity across the supply chain to reduce environmental impact. For security, the laptop offers Touch ID for quick authentication and industry-leading encryption. The battery provides up to 16 hours of use on a single charge.

The MacBook Neo retails for Php 39,990, while education customers can purchase the base model for Php 33,990. Customers can choose from four colors: blush, indigo, silver, and citrus. The laptop ships in 100 percent fiber-based packaging. Users can order the laptop soon through the Apple online store and Apple Authorized Resellers.

MacBook Neo Specs

Processor: A18 Pro chip includes a 16-core Neural Engine and a 5-core GPU.
Display: 13-inch Liquid Retina display provides 2408-by-1506 resolution and 500 nits of brightness with an anti-reflective layer.
Dimensions and Weight: The aluminum enclosure weighs 2.7 pounds.
Battery and Power: Fanless design supports up to 16 hours of battery life on a single charge.
Camera: 1080p FaceTime HD camera captures high-definition video.
Audio: Dual side-firing speakers support Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos.
Microphones: Dual microphones utilize directional beamforming to reduce background noise.
Input: Features a Magic Keyboard, a Multi-Touch trackpad, and a Touch ID sensor for security.
Ports and Connectivity: Includes two USB-C ports, a headphone jack, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 6.
Operating System: Ships with macOS Tahoe.
Sustainability: Contains 60 percent recycled materials and 90 percent recycled aluminum.
Colors: Available in blush, indigo, silver, and citrus.
Price: Starts at Php 39,990 for retail and Php 33,990 for education customers.