Apple is known for many things such as the quality of its products. Having low-cost devices, however, is not one of them. People continue to purchase Apple products because, despite the eye-watering prices, you get what you pay for/ But what if the tech giant starts making cheaper laptops?
Cheaper Apple Computers
When you plan to browse through the Apple Store to buy a computer for yourself, you have to have at least $600 in order to purchase the company's cheapest PC, which is the Mac mini. The rest ranges from $950 to a couple thousand dollars.
If the rumors are true, the iPhone manufacturer might be entering the mid to low-range PC market soon. Sources state that the laptop would look a lot like Chromebooks, although it will likely retain the MacBook's metallic design.
In order to bring the price way down, Apple will likely use cheaper materials as well as components, so it won't run as smoothly as its pricier products. As reported by Gizmodo, we might see the release of the gadget by 2024 at the earliest.
There's not much to know about Apple's plans to sell cheaper laptops. The rumor does not have much to back it, which is why it's nothing more than gossip at this point. Although, it would be good news for Apple enthusiasts to have a cheaper option for purchase.
This is not the first time that Apple is diving into the mid-range market. The company has released the iPhone SE which costs around $429, which is notably cheaper than its other models and can cost up to $1,200.
It has all the major things that Apple can offer such as the device running on iOS and having fast performance. However, the camera quality is not as good as the flagship models, and some claim that there are problems with the touchscreen.
It Would Be a Good Alternative to Chromebooks
Google laptops are popular among the academic community, especially for mass use since they are cheap in price and are good enough for basic functions like productivity apps and access to the internet. But, reports say that they are no longer the best option out there.
Over time, Chromebooks have increased in price, which is a problem for institutions that plan to purchase them in bulk. Furthermore, the laptops are not as durable, meaning that constant repairs will further drive up the cost of using them.
As mentioned in The Wall Street Journal, there is an imposed expiration date for the laptops, which means that even though the hardware still has a few good years, they will be rendered obsolete once support is already cut.
The laptops remain operational for five years but unlike other computers, users can't squeeze out every last use for it since it has a "hard stop." If Apple does enter the low to mid-range market, it can serve as a good alternative.
Knowing Apple's reputation for quality, the laptops may last longer and function better. It also helps that Apple has a good security system, which allows for student data to be protected while the devices are being used.
