MacBook Neo Goes on Sale as Apple's $599 Laptop Arrives in Stores Worldwide
Analyst predicts 4.5 million units this year while testing reveals unofficial fast charging works with beefier adapters
Supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has shared fresh insights on launch day, suggesting strong initial demand. Kuo also puts a timeline on the arrival of Apple's first OLED MacBook Air, signalling that the Neo sits at the entry point of a broader display technology transition across the Mac lineup.
In a notable discovery, testing reveals the MacBook Neo benefits from using a more powerful charger despite Apple officially stating the machine does not support fast charging. The laptop ships with just a 20W adapter (except in Europe), but third-party testing shows meaningfully faster charge times with higher-wattage USB-C chargers.
The launch follows last week's teardown that revealed a remarkably compact design — essentially a tiny computer surrounded by battery — and new keyboards that replace text labels with glyph-only key caps.
Analysis
Why This Matters
A $599 MacBook fundamentally changes Apple's competitive position in education and entry-level markets. This is the cheapest Mac laptop since the original MacBook Air era.
Background
Apple has been gradually expanding its Mac lineup downmarket while maintaining premium positioning. The Neo represents the boldest move yet, with compromises on charging speed and display tech to hit the price point.
Key Perspectives
Kuo's 4.5 million unit forecast for 2026 would make the Neo one of Apple's best-selling Mac models. The fast-charging workaround suggests Apple left headroom in the hardware.
What to Watch
First weekend sales numbers and whether the Neo cannibalises MacBook Air sales or expands the Mac market into new demographics.