Apple's $700 MacBook Neo runs on an iPhone chip and mostly holds up

Apple's MacBook Neo costs $700 and runs on a chip made for an iPhone. According to Engadget, it handles a Mac's software far better than you might expect. It is a good value for everyday use, as long as you know where it cuts corners.

What it is

The Neo launched in March 2026. Instead of the M-series chips in other modern Macs, it uses the A18 Pro, originally built for 2024's iPhone 16 Pro. Apple trimmed it slightly, from six graphics cores to five. The screen is 13 inches. The price looks better still next to the MacBook Air, which rose by $200 to a new starting price of $1,300 about three months later.

Where it holds up

In Engadget's testing, the Neo juggled several web browsers, a TV show, photo editing in Pixelmator Pro and the game Oceanhorn 3 without much trouble. It can also edit standard 4K video. The reviewer had doubts about a phone chip running a full computer system, but says it works better than you might think.

Where it falls short

The weak spots are memory, ports and app support.

• It has 8GB of memory, which cannot be upgraded after purchase.
• Video editing with special effects slows to a crawl.
• Many apps need an M1 chip or better, including Assassin's Creed Shadows.
• Ports are limited to one 10Gbps USB 3, one slower USB 2 and a headphone jack.
• It supports one 4K, 60Hz monitor, but no Thunderbolt accessories.

The MacBook Air does better on each count. It has an M5 chip, at least 16GB of memory, faster USB 4 ports with Thunderbolt 4 and a dedicated MagSafe power connection.

Wait or buy

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that a 2027 refresh will move the Neo to the A19 Pro chip from the iPhone 17 Pro and raise memory to 12GB. Engadget says that extra memory may smooth out some of the rough spots. The material does not say what the refresh will cost.

Longevity is the bigger worry. Apple's AI features in macOS 27 already require an M3 chip and 12GB of memory for some tools. A second-generation Neo would still get only a slice of what Apple plans. Since memory cannot be added later, a five-year plan favors waiting.

What to do

If you need a Mac now for browsing, photos, streaming or light games, the first Neo will do. Apps that work today are unlikely to lose support soon. Engadget suggests looking for a refurbished one to save a bit more. Heavy video, design or engineering users should look at the Air or wait.