Apple may be finished with product launches for 2025, but new reports suggest the company is preparing several lower-cost devices for early 2026.
According to GFHK Securities analyst Jeff Pu, Apple plans to introduce a budget-friendly iPhone, iPad, and Mac lineup next year. Pu says the iPhone 17e is expected to arrive in the middle of the first quarter of 2026.
iPhone 17e: Familiar Design, New Chip
Pu believes the iPhone 17e will keep the same design as the current model. The phone is expected to feature the A19 chip, 8GB of RAM, and Apple’s new 18MP front-facing camera.
Pu also says Apple will keep the 48MP main camera and the notch design.
One notable detail in the analyst’s prediction is that Apple will reportedly keep the C1 modem rather than upgrading to the newer C1X 5G modem introduced with the iPhone Air.
Low-Cost iPad and Mac in Development
Pu also mentions that Apple is preparing more affordable iPad and MacBook models. While he did not share many details, earlier reports indicate that Apple plans to update its base iPad with the A18 chip and 8GB of RAM. This version is expected to be the final iPad to support Apple Intelligence.
Regarding the low-cost MacBook, Apple is reportedly developing a laptop powered by an iPhone-class processor. Other specifications remain unclear, and it is not yet known whether the device will resemble the M1 MacBook Air or take on a new design.
Updated Timeline for iPhone 18 Series
Pu has also revised his expectations for the 2027 lineup. He now believes Apple will release the iPhone Air 2, iPhone 18, and iPhone 18e in early 2027. According to his report, these models will adopt the C2 chip as their new 5G modem.
The analyst also expects the iPhone 18 Pro models to feature a smaller Dynamic Island.
He adds that the long-rumoured iPhone Fold is still expected to use Touch ID instead of Face ID.
