Apple Introduces Cashback Offers on MacBooks After Price Increase

In a recent move to alleviate the impact of its recent price hikes on MacBook laptops, Apple has announced cashback offers linked to specific credit cards. This initiative comes just weeks after the company raised the prices of its MacBook lineup, a decision that has left many consumers feeling frustrated. The cashback offers are not straightforward discounts; instead, they are contingent upon the use of certain credit cards, making them less accessible for all customers. The 14-inch MacBook Pro featuring the M5 chip is eligible for a cashback of up to Rs 15,000, while the 13-inch MacBook Air can provide up to Rs 9,000 in cashback. These offers are available exclusively for holders of American Express, Axis Bank, and ICICI Bank cards, and will be valid from July 16 to August 31, 2026. Additionally, Apple has extended its educational pricing for the MacBook Air, reducing the price for eligible students and educators to approximately Rs 1,37,900.

It is important to note that the cashback offer is limited to the entry-level configuration of the M5 chip. Higher-end models, such as the M5 Pro priced at Rs 2,99,900 and the M5 Max at Rs 4,99,900, are not included in this promotion. The effective prices after cashback still reflect a significant increase compared to the original launch prices. For instance, the MacBook Pro will cost Rs 2,24,900 after applying the maximum cashback, which is Rs 55,000 higher than its initial price of Rs 1,69,900. Similarly, the MacBook Air's effective price of Rs 1,40,900 remains Rs 21,000 above its original launch price of Rs 1,19,900. This situation illustrates Apple's strategy of maintaining elevated list prices while offering cashback incentives to make the price hikes appear less daunting.