Highlights
- The iPhone 17e is expected in early 2026 and will feature an 18MP selfie camera with Centre Stage.
- Apple also plans a new entry-level MacBook with a 13-inch display. the A18 Pro chip, priced between $699–$899.
- The 12th-gen iPad will debut with the A18 chip, enabling Apple Intelligence features for the first time.
Apple could be gearing up for one of its biggest updates yet to its budget iPhone lineup. According to a new research note from analyst Jeff Pu, the company is planning a series of meaningful upgrades for early 2026. The upgrades won’t be limited to the iPhone 17e, but also for its entry-level MacBook and iPad models. Pu’s report is based on early signs in the supply chain and gives the first look at how Apple may shift its strategy next year. Here’s what we know.
iPhone 17e – What To Expect?
Jeff Pu claims that Apple is preparing the iPhone 17e as the successor to the iPhone 16e, with a launch window set for early 2026. One of the biggest changes would be a jump to an 18-megapixel front camera with Centre Stage support. It is the same setup from the standard iPhone 17.
Apple reportedly plans to use the A19 chip, closing the distance between the performance of the “e” model and its flagship siblings. Another important design upgrade mentioned in the note is the removal of the notch in favour of Dynamic Island, marking the first time the feature appears on the budget “e” series.
Connectivity improvements may also be part of the upgrade. Pu says the phone could come equipped with Apple’s C1 modem and possibly the N1 wireless chip, which is designed to boost peer-to-peer communication and make wireless transfers more efficient.
Previous leaks have already suggested some of the hardware specs. We can expect a 6.1-inch OLED display with 60Hz refresh rate, the new Dynamic Island cut-out, and a 48-megapixel rear camera, all wrapped up in a noticeably refreshed exterior.
Apple’s 2026 MacBook and Base iPad – What To Expect?
Inside the same research note, Pu also outlines Apple’s plans for an entry-level MacBook aimed at buyers who don’t need the full power of premium models. The laptop is said to feature a 13-inch display, run on the A18 Pro chip, and be offered in multiple colour options.
Price expectations fall between $699 and $899, although Pu cautions that Apple may need to make certain hardware trade-offs to hit that target range.
On the iPad side, Apple is reportedly preparing the 12th-generation iPad for release in 2026. While the design may stay familiar, the bigger story is the upgrade to the A18 chip. This shift would allow the entry-level iPad to support Apple Intelligence features for the first time. It will be a major step toward making on-device AI capabilities available across more Apple products.
FAQ
Q1. When is the iPhone 17e expected to launch and what are its key upgrades?
Answer. The iPhone 17e is expected in early 2026 with an 18MP selfie camera, A19 chip, Dynamic Island, and improved connectivity via Apple’s C1 modem and N1 wireless chip.
Q2. What other Apple products are planned for 2026 alongside the iPhone 17e?
Answer. Apple is preparing an entry-level MacBook with a 13-inch display powered by the A18 Pro chip, and the 12th-gen iPad with the A18 chip to support Apple Intelligence features.
Q3. How will the iPhone 17e differ from its predecessor, the iPhone 16e?
Answer. Unlike the iPhone 16e, the 17e will feature Dynamic Island instead of a notch, a stronger front camera upgrade to 18MP, and performance closer to flagship models thanks to the A19 chip.