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MacBook Neo Fuels Record Week of First‑Time Mac Buyers, Apple Says

Apple Store shipping now slips into April, reflecting a surge that retailers are easing with small incentives.

Overview

  • CEO Tim Cook said the Mac just had its best launch week ever for first‑time Mac customers following the Neo's release.
  • Apple’s website shows all MacBook Neo models delivering in early to mid‑April, with many store pickups pushed into mid‑April depending on color and configuration.
  • Amazon is listing small price cuts of roughly $4–$10 with quicker delivery on some models, and Best Buy is offering faster fulfillment plus a $50 store credit for paid members.
  • Positioned at $599 ($499 for education) and powered by an A18 Pro chip, the Neo targets budget buyers and PC/Chromebook switchers seeking an entry point into macOS.
  • Reviews and teardowns highlight intentional trade‑offs to hit the price, including an 8GB memory limit, asymmetrical USB‑C speeds without Thunderbolt, a standard‑gamut display, and no MagSafe.