It's a brave Neo world

Apple’s low-cost MacBook Neo shook up the computing landscape this week. Powered by an iPhone chip, priced at just $599 and available in four fun colors, the entry-level machine has some PC makers quaking in their boots.

And rightly so. Despite some obvious cut corners, the MacBook Neo looks plenty powerful for casual users. And the first benchmarks back that up.

It’s already selling out … but where did Apple get that name?

Also in this edition of The Weekender:

The MacBook Neo grabbed the headlines (and lit up this week’s Cult of Mac podcast), but it wasn’t the only new product Apple released this week. We also got new MacBook Pros with high-end M5 chips, a pair of new Airs (MacBook and iPad), the upgraded iPhone 17e and even a couple of gorgeous new monitors. Not bad, Apple! Not bad at all.
Help yourself to the bright new wallpapers from the iPhone 17e and the MacBook Neo.
We reviewed a great three-in-one wireless charger this week and also rounded up the best iPhone 17e cases you can buy right now.
And finally, Cult of Mac Deals dropped new discounts on hardware (including a Qi2 magnetic power bank and a Dyson vacuum with frickin’ lasers) as well as software (an AI prompt generator and a turbocharged job-search tool).

Enjoy your weekend!

— Lewis Wallace, managing editor

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Featured stories: MacBook Neo

A18 Pro-powered MacBook Neo brings power at lowest price ever

Starting at $599, available in four colors, and powered by an A18 Pro processor, the new MacBook Neo is Apple’s most affordable laptop ever.

Don’t underestimate it: MacBook Neo packs surprising performance

Comparing the MacBook Neo's A18 Pro with previous Mac processors shows the surprising power of its A-series chip.

Plus, more on MacBook Neo’s specs:

MacBook Neo makes us swoon [Cult of Mac podcast No. 10]

This week on the "Cult of Mac" podcast: The MacBook Neo stands out in a tsunami of new Apple products.

Plus: MacBook Neo is selling out fast — these are the hottest models

Why Apple named its new budget MacBook ‘Neo’

The name "MacBook Neo" surprised everyone. And the reasoning behind it is just as vivid as the laptop's eye-popping colors.

News

MacBook Pros with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips deliver major performance leap

Apple's new Pro laptops pack major upgrades.

Plus, more on MacBook Pros and the new M5 chips:

iPhone 17e doubles built-in storage, adds MagSafe

The latest budget iPhone is an even better value.

Plus: iPhone 17 vs. iPhone 17e comparison: Here’s the smarter pick

M5 MacBook Air ramps up speed, storage and connectivity

Apple's top-selling laptop gets sweet upgrades.

4 key upgrades make new M4 iPad Air a beast

The new tablet features fantastic enhancements.

Studio Display XDR arrives with mini-LED backlighting and 5K clarity

Meet Apple's new premium monitor for professionals.

How-tos

Give your iPhone a fresh look with new iPhone 17e wallpaper

You don't need to buy a new handset to bring a fresh look to your iPhone.

Plus: How to get stylish MacBook Neo wallpapers early for iPhone and Mac

How to save big bucks with Apple's educational discount

You could save $100 on the new MacBook Neo.

Deals

This premium portable monitor turns your laptop into a pro-level setup

Instantly boost your screen real estate with the 16-inch Mobile Pixels Duex Float 2 Pro.

Plus, more gear from Cult of Mac Deals:

Your Mac has hidden tools — this $30 app makes them visible

MacMagic is an easy way to unlock hidden Mac features without memorizing Terminal commands.

Plus, more software and services from Cult of Mac Deals:

Reviews and recommendations

New Belkin 3-in-1 foldable charger gives your iPhone a full 25W [Review]

The travel-friendly Belkin UltraCharge 3-in-1 Foldable Magnetic Charger quickly juices up an iPhone, AirPods and Apple Watch.

Best cases you can buy right now for iPhone 17e

Protect your handset now with one of these greats.

Setups

Power to burn: Top 10 Mac Studio setups

Apple's powerful and compact desktop machine has wowed users since it came out in 2022. Behold the top 10 Mac Studio setups we've seen.