Apple’s recent launch of the MacBook Neo has shaken up the budget laptop segment. Affordable products aren’t generally associated with Apple, but with the Ne(w)o budget laptop, Tim Cook & team have proven that they can deliver a more accessible device without sacrificing the ‘Apple experience’.
This has sparked a new debate among Apple enthusiasts: if Apple can build a budget MacBook, can they also do a budget Apple iPhone? While the iPhone 17e offers strong performance and battery life, its ₹64,990 starting price still feels far from ‘budget’. So, after the MacBook Neo, is hoping for an iPhone Neo too much to ask?
The MacBook Neo may not carry the best features from Apple’s Mac lineup, but it delivers the essentials most users need. With the A18 Pro chip, it’s aimed at students and users who need a device for everyday tasks like browsing and light work.
On the same lines, imagine a simplified budget Apple iPhone with a slightly toned-down processor and fewer premium features but still delivering the essential iOS experience. It wouldn’t need top-tier specs, Face ID, or MagSafe. Such a device could be especially appealing in price-sensitive markets like India, where a lower entry price might encourage more people to try Apple products for the first time.
However, Apple’s history suggests it may be cautious. The company has experimented with niche iPhones before—like the iPhone mini lineup and the iPhone SE. While these devices had loyal fans, their broader market success was limited. So while the idea of a budget Apple iPhone seems exciting, keeping Apple’s track record in mind, the chances are slim.
