Apple has introduced the MacBook Neo, a new notebook that stands out primarily due to its comparatively low starting price. Starting at €699, the device is clearly aimed at users looking for a more affordable MacBook. Despite the lower price, Apple has opted for current technology such as the A18 Pro chip and promises a battery life of up to 16 hours. One unique feature of the new model, however, concerns the keyboard. Although the MacBook Neo uses the same Magic Keyboard as other MacBooks, Touch ID is not included as standard.
Apple has pursued a very simple product strategy with the MacBook Neo. Instead of numerous configuration options, there are only a few fixed variants. Storage size and certain features are directly linked. This ensures a clear selection, but also means that individual features cannot be chosen independently.
This strategy is particularly evident in the case of Touch ID. Anyone wishing to use the fingerprint sensor must automatically choose a specific model variant.
The MacBook Neo at a glance
Technically, the MacBook Neo uses the A18 Pro chip, which is designed for high energy efficiency. According to Apple, this allows the notebook to achieve a battery life of up to 16 hours.
Apple also relies on familiar hardware for the keyboard. The MacBook Neo uses the same Magic Keyboard already found in other MacBook models. The basic typing experience therefore remains unchanged.
Visually, Apple is focusing more on color with the new model. The MacBook Neo is offered in four colors: Silver, Citrus, Blush, and Indigo.
Touch ID is only available with the more expensive version
One of the most striking decisions concerns the integration of Touch ID. While the fingerprint sensor is now standard on many current MacBooks, it is not automatically included in the MacBook Neo.
The base model, priced at €699, features a standard keyboard without a Touch ID button. Users wishing to utilize the fingerprint sensor must opt for the more expensive version, which costs €100 more and includes a keyboard with a Touch ID button.
It is important to note that Touch ID cannot be added retroactively.
Storage options and pricing
The base model of the MacBook Neo comes with 256 GB of storage. Touch ID cannot be integrated into this version.
The second and only upgrade level costs €100 more. This model offers 512 GB of storage and additionally includes the Touch ID sensor in the keyboard.
There are no other configuration options. Apple offers only these two storage levels for the MacBook Neo; other upgrade options are not available.
Educational discount for students and teachers
As with other Apple products, there is also an education discount for the MacBook Neo. This reduces the price by 100 euros.
This means the base model with 256 GB of storage costs €599 for students and teachers. The version with 512 GB of storage and Touch ID costs €699 in the education sector.
Pre-order and market launch
The MacBook Neo is available for pre-order now. The official sales launch is scheduled for March 11th.
MacBook Neo: Price, features and market launch at a glance
With the MacBook Neo, Apple is launching a notebook that stands out primarily due to its starting price of €699. At the same time, it offers modern hardware such as the A18 Pro chip, a battery life of up to 16 hours, and the familiar Magic Keyboard.
The specifications are deliberately kept simple. There are only two storage options, and Touch ID is only included in the more expensive 512GB model. In addition, there's a €100 education discount, making the device even more affordable for students and teachers. With four color options, pre-orders starting today, and a market launch on March 11, the MacBook Neo is about to go on sale. (Image: Apple)
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