Walmart sells Mac computer – for the first time ever

A major consumer technology device is now available on Walmart.com.

The discount giant is selling the MacBook Air laptop model with the M1 chip. This is the first time customers can purchase a Mac directly from Walmart. The MacBook Air with the M1 chip is now available on Walmart.com and will soon be available in select Walmart stores for  $699.

"Our mission at Walmart is to help customers save money so they can live better – it’s not an either/or proposition. The very heart of that mission is the belief that customers should not have to sacrifice quality because of price," said Julie Barber, executive VP of merchandising at Walmart U.S. "We’re working hard to bring premium brands to our physical and virtual shelves, and we’re excited to work with Apple to do just that."

Walmart diversifies product offering

In recent months, Walmart has been continuing to make inroads outside its core demographic. The nation’s largest retailer noted share gains in grocery and general merchandise, primarily among higher-income households., as online sales soared and store and digital traffic grew in the fourth quarter of 2023.

However, Walmart has also been expanding its offerings in other areas, as well. The retailer recently entered into an agreement to acquire smart TV maker/streaming platform provider Vizio in a deal valued at approximately $2.3 billion. 

By acquiring Vizio and its SmartCast operating system (OS), Walmart intends to offer new connected TV and streaming content for consumers, as well as open new opportunities for its advertising partners.

Walmart also introduced its own sustainable eyewear brand called Karun in December 2023. The line, now available at 1,400 Walmart Vision Center locations, features eyewear made from recycled fishing nets, metals and other plastics from the coasts of Patagonia (a region of South America with territory in both Argentina and Chile).

Based in Bentonville, Ark., Walmart Inc. operates more than 10,500 stores and numerous e-commerce websites in 19 countries.