Bucket Tech: MacBook Neo Launches at iStore

iStore, South Africa’s only Apple Premium Partner, has officially introduced the MacBook Neo, a brand-new addition to the Mac lineup designed to bring the performance of Apple silicon to a wider audience than ever before. Starting from R11 999, the MacBook Neo combines a colourful aluminium design with a crisp 13-inch Liquid Retina display, positioning it as an accessible entry point into the Mac ecosystem for students, professionals and small businesses alike.

Available in four vibrant colour options, the MacBook Neo is powered by the A18 Pro chip — the same generation of Apple silicon that has helped redefine performance across Apple’s product range. In day-to-day use, that translates into smooth multitasking whether you’re working through spreadsheets, editing photos, streaming content or running business applications. Battery life is rated at up to 16 hours, giving the machine enough endurance to comfortably carry you through a full work or study day without reaching for a charger.

Alongside the new hardware, iStore is also making the switch to Mac easier for customers currently using older PC laptops. Through its PC Buy Back programme, customers can receive a guaranteed R3 000 trade-in value when moving from a qualifying PC to the MacBook Neo, lowering the barrier to entry for those considering their first Mac. The offer officially goes live on 11 March 2026.

Trade-ins remain a core part of the iStore upgrade experience. The retailer offers competitive valuations for both Mac and PC devices, allowing customers to offset the cost of a new Mac by trading in their current laptop. For many buyers, that can make stepping into a new MacBook significantly more attainable.

For those looking for added peace of mind, iStore also offers iCare for Mac, its extended protection and warranty plan. The service extends coverage beyond Apple’s standard warranty and can help maintain stronger trade-in value when it eventually comes time to upgrade again.

Customers who prefer to browse and compare devices digitally can do so through the iStore App, which provides a convenient way to explore the full Mac range, compare specifications and complete purchases directly from a smartphone. The app is designed to streamline the buying experience, allowing customers to move from research to checkout in just a few minutes.

In store, iStore’s Apple specialists remain available to help customers choose the right Mac for their needs. That includes assistance with setup, data transfers and guidance for those moving from a PC environment to macOS for the first time.

The MacBook Neo is available now through iStore locations nationwide as well as online at iStore.co.za, with pricing starting from R11 999. With its vibrant design, capable performance and competitive entry price — combined with trade-in incentives, expert support and flexible purchasing options the MacBook Neo aims to make the Mac experience more accessible than ever in the South African market.

Microsoft YouthSpark Live

One of the major news stories to break out this week was that Nigeria's GDP overtook SA's. We as a country consider ourselves as the leader in Africa yet another country that's normally shrouded in instability is performing better than us on an economic level. Unemployment is a major contributing factor to the countries GDP and with almost a quarter of SA's population being unemployed, it doesn't look very promising for the future. Out of that figure, it is estimated that 70% are youth, which is a greater cause for concern seeing that that is our future. Government alone cannot alleviate this problem and needs help from the private sector, step in Microsoft SA with their YouthSpark initiative. 

The first YouthSpark event was held at Wits University, last year in May with a turn out of just around 1000 students, the day proved to be very knowledgeable for students considering a future in IT. Microsoft showed attendees the various tools on offer to help them in choosing the right path in their career choices. The day was not only for the students to learn but the feedback Microsoft received was tremendous. It was a similar case when they took the road show to Cape Town and King Williams Town. 

The next stop is this weekend on the 12th of April in Durban, the venue, DUT (Durban University of Technology). It's bound to be just as good as the others but it needs student participation, the event is free of charge, so if you're a student, learner or budding entrepreneur, be sure to register now for a seat as space is limited. 

You can register online at www.youthsparklive.com with the registration code "Durban", alternatively you can email saevent@microsoft.com or call call the contact centre on 0860 22 55 67.