Apple is reportedly preparing for a significant increase in MacBook Neo shipments in 2027, with the company asking suppliers to prepare for as many as 16 million units.
The forecast follows strong demand for the affordable MacBook, which launched in March 2026 at $599 before a subsequent price increase raised its starting price to $699.
Industry estimates suggest Apple could ship nearly 8 million MacBook Neo laptops during 2026. If the latest target is achieved, shipments could approximately double next year.
However, the projected figure likely includes both the existing MacBook Neo and its rumored successor, rather than the second generation model alone.
MacBook Neo 2 Could Get a Faster A19 Pro Chip and More Memory
Apple is reportedly testing an updated MacBook Neo with Qualcomm rival Apple’s A19 Pro processor, which would replace the A18 Pro currently used in the laptop.
The original model uses the same A18 Pro chip introduced with the iPhone 16 Pro, allowing Apple to offer a lower starting price than its traditional MacBook lineup.
However, reaching that price required several compromises, including just 8GB of RAM and a keyboard without backlighting.
The rumored successor could address one of those limitations by increasing memory capacity.
Apple has not confirmed the specifications, but additional RAM would improve the laptop's ability to handle demanding applications and multiple tasks simultaneously.
A faster processor could also strengthen its position against affordable Windows laptops powered by newer Intel processors.
Apple Suppliers Reportedly Expect More Conservative Shipment Numbers
Although Apple is said to be targeting 16 million shipments, suppliers reportedly expect demand to reach at least 12 million units.
The difference suggests some uncertainty about how quickly the affordable MacBook market will expand.
The shipment estimates also require context because the original MacBook Neo launched in March 2026 and will not have completed a full calendar year of sales by December.
Consequently, comparing 2027 shipments directly with 2026 could exaggerate the underlying growth rate.
Another challenge is the ongoing global memory shortage, which has increased component prices across the PC industry.
Higher RAM capacity could make the next MacBook Neo more attractive, but it may also increase manufacturing costs.
Apple has not announced a release date or pricing for the MacBook Neo 2.
For now, the reported production plans indicate that Apple expects its affordable laptop lineup to become a larger part of its Mac business during 2027.
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