Apple may launch a cheaper MacBook Air this year

Apple is trying to tap the mid-level budgeted market space. After successfully launching the iPhone SE, the tech-giant is now planning to launch a cheaper model of its most popular gadget ever, the MacBook Air. According to Apple analyst KGI Securities (via 9to5Mac), the company is reportedly planning to release a cheaper model of MacBook Air in the second quarter of 2018.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo expects that Apple will release a 13-inch MacBook Air “with a lower price tag,” later this year and that the lower price could help boost Apple’s laptop sales. Apple sells its current MacBook Air at $999, which happens to be cheaper and affordable than the other Mac line-up from the company. He expects that the new MacBook Air will help push shipments of the laptop series up by 10-15 percent this year.

Apparently, KGI is also “positive” about the release of a refreshed model of AirPods later this year. As for the new iPhones, Kuo focuses on the entry-level 6.1-inch model and says this iPhone will make a strong year for suppliers such as Unimicron (a private chip manufacturer) as well as Wistron and Pegatron companies.

Kuo notes that demand for Apple HomePod has been “mediocre” thus far and he holds a “neutral” view of the demand for the smart speaker based on “shipping time.”