Apple is making a significant shift in its pricing strategy, offering a complete ecosystem of products for under €2,000 for the first time. For years, entering the Apple world – with iPhones, Macs, AirPods, and Apple Watches – required a substantial investment. But with the recent launch of more affordable options like the MacBook Neo and iPhone 17e, the company appears to be broadening its appeal.
Tech enthusiasts can now assemble a full Apple bundle, though opting for entry-level models across the board is key. This move could significantly expand Apple’s customer base, making its integrated ecosystem more accessible to a wider audience. Here’s a breakdown of the components for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the “Apple kingdom,” excluding the iPad, which the new Neo effectively replaces.
Starting Point: iPhone 17e
The iPhone remains central to the Apple experience, and the 17e is positioned as the new entry point. Featuring an A19 processor and a base storage option of 256 GB, it’s more affordable than the 2025 model, the 16e. The iPhone 17e has a price tag of €739 in Portugal.
Computer: MacBook Neo
Another key factor in Apple’s shift towards affordability is the pricing of its computers. The company debuted in the accessible laptop market with the Neo, which is also the first to utilize the same chip as the iPhone, the A18 Pro. The base model, with 256 GB of storage, is available for €699.
Watch: Apple Watch SE 3
In the wearables segment, the Apple Watch SE3 has become the most affordable way to own an Apple smartwatch. It features an S10 processor with a dual-core CPU and Neural Engine, is available in 40 or 44 mm sizes, measures heart rate, and supports Apple Pay. It retails for €279.
Earbuds: AirPods 4
To complete the setup, the AirPods 4 are essential, serving as the “audio bridge” between all Apple devices. These earbuds feature Bluetooth 5.3, a maximum battery life of thirty hours, Spatial Audio, and can also be charged with the Apple Watch base. The most affordable version is priced at €149, though it lacks Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
These four devices represent the essentials for entering the Apple ecosystem, which guarantees automatic synchronization between iPhone and Mac, shared calls/messages, AirDrop, and Handoff. What was once considered a luxury is now becoming accessible to a much wider audience: the total cost comes in just below the psychological threshold of €2,000, settling at €1866.
