Intel chip benchmark shows 21% lead over Apple A18 Pro

TL;DR:

• Intel launched a new CPU on April 29, 2026 aimed at budget laptops positioned against devices like Apple's MacBook Neo.
• An early benchmark cited by 9to5Mac said the new Intel chip was 21% faster than Apple's A18 Pro.
• The report framed the chip as Intel's response to the MacBook Neo's price and performance positioning.

Intel launched a new CPU on April 29, 2026 for budget laptops positioned against devices like Apple's MacBook Neo. 9to5Mac reported that an early benchmark showed the chip performing 21% faster than the Apple A18 Pro used in the MacBook Neo.

The source did not provide the new Intel chip's model name, pricing, or device partners in the excerpt provided. The comparison in the report focused on early benchmark results against the A18 Pro and described the chip as intended for similar lower-cost laptop categories.

This development adds to competition between Intel-based Windows laptops and Apple's MacBook lineup in lower-cost notebook segments. The report specifically linked Intel's launch to Apple's MacBook Neo and the A18 Pro, but the excerpt did not include broader technical details such as power draw, manufacturing process, or shipping timelines.

Related Questions

Is Intel making a chip to compete with the MacBook Neo?

Yes. Intel launched a new CPU on April 29, 2026 that 9to5Mac said is aimed at budget laptops similar to Apple's MacBook Neo.

Is Intel's new chip faster than the Apple A18 Pro?

Yes. An early benchmark cited by 9to5Mac said Intel's new chip was 21% faster than the Apple A18 Pro used in the MacBook Neo.