Touch ID Costs More

In a strange twist that sort of echoes Apple’s iMac strategy, the entry-level MacBook Neo does not include Touch ID. That means no secure authentication and no direct support for Apple Pay. If you want Touch ID, you’ll have to layout $699 for the 512 GB model, whether you need the extra storage of not.

It’s not the first time Apple has used this approach. The entry-level 24-inch iMac — the one with only two USB-C ports — has always been a strange duck in this regard, giving customers the option of a Magic Keyboard (without Touch ID), or an $80 upgrade to the Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad and Touch ID.

There’s nothing in between, so customers who want the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID (without the numeric keypad), either have to buy it separately, tossing aside the one that’s bundled with the iMac, or opt for the next model up, which includes the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID standard (and the numeric version as a $30 upgrade).

Still, at least iMac users have a reasonably affordable option if they change their mind. However, if you opt for the 256 GB MacBook Neo, you better be sure you’ll never need Touch ID as you’ll be stuck without it.