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Apple may have wrapped up its major launches for 2025, but the company is already shifting focus to a more affordable lineup for early 2026. A new report from GFHK Securities analyst Jeff Pu suggests that Apple is working on lower-cost versions of the iPhone, iPad, and Mac as part of a broader strategy to reach budget-conscious buyers. Pu expects the first device, the iPhone 17e, to arrive in the middle of the first quarter of 2026.
iPhone 17e Expected With Familiar Look and Updated Hardware
According to Pu, the iPhone 17e will keep the current design. Apple is said to be preparing the device with the A19 chip, 8GB of RAM, and a new 18MP front-facing camera. The analyst also expects Apple to keep the 48MP main camera and the notch. One key detail is Apple’s reported decision to stick with the C1 modem instead of moving to the newer C1X 5G modem that appears in the iPhone Air.
Apple Builds Cheaper iPad and Mac Models for Next Year
Pu also believes a low-cost iPad and MacBook are now in development. He did not share many new details, although earlier leaks point to a base iPad refresh featuring the A18 chip and 8 GB of RAM. That model is expected to be the final iPad capable of running Apple Intelligence.
Apple is also working on a budget MacBook that uses an iPhone-class processor. Its full specifications are still unknown, and it is unclear if the device will follow the M1 MacBook Air’s design or launch with new styling.
Revised Roadmap Shows New iPhone 18 Line in 2027
Pu has also adjusted his 2027 forecast. He now expects Apple to introduce the iPhone Air 2, iPhone 18, and iPhone 18e in early 2027. These models are expected to adopt the C2 chip as their new 5G modem. Pu also believes the iPhone 18 Pro line will feature a smaller Dynamic Island. He adds that the long-rumored iPhone Fold still appears set to use Touch ID instead of Face ID, despite ongoing speculation.
