iPhone 17e may launch in early 2026, here’s everything we know about it
Apple is set to launch the iPhone 17e with the flagship A19 chip and dynamic island design in early 2026. But it’s not the only low-cost device coming next year, with the iPad and MacBook also rumored to be included.
Apple’s calendar for 2026 looks packed, and one of the headliners could be its next affordable iPhone. According to a new research note from Jeff Pu of GF Securities, the company is planning to launch the iPhone 17e in early 2026, following in the footsteps of this year’s iPhone 16e. The “E” range, which replaced Apple’s once-popular SE lineup, aims to provide flagship-style performance at a favorable price.
Pu’s report, shared via MacRumors, supports earlier rumors that the iPhone 17e will get a meaningful spec bump and will arrive before the flagship iPhone 18 series later in the year. If true, it could help Apple regain momentum in the budget smartphone market, where the 16e didn’t take off as expected.
iPhone 17e to launch next year: What to expect?
Apple’s A19 chip will reportedly power the iPhone 17e, the same processor as the base iPhone 17 (Review). In contrast, the high-end A20 and A20 Pro chips will be reserved for the iPhone 18 series expected in late 2026. Pu notes that the device will have an 18-megapixel front camera with center stage support, mirroring the setup on the iPhone 17.
There will also be a major change in connectivity. The report says Apple plans to use its C1 modem for the iPhone 17e, despite newer models, such as the upcoming iPhone Air, shifting to the faster C1X 5G modem. Apple is already working on a C2 modem, although it’s not expected until 2027.
One of the more interesting rumors is that the iPhone 17e may adopt Apple’s N1 wireless chip, which promises better power efficiency and faster, more reliable peer-to-peer transfers. This should mean easier AirDrop-style sharing and longer battery life.
Design-wise, Apple is expected to move away from the traditional notch found on the 16e and bring the sleek dynamic island cut-out to its budget model for the first time. Other specs are likely to remain the same as the iPhone 16e, keeping the cost under control while modernizing the look.
Pu suggests the iPhone 17e will arrive in spring 2026, potentially alongside two other devices targeted at the price segment, a low-cost MacBook and a refreshed 12th-generation iPad.
Low-cost MacBook and new iPad may join the lineup
Along with the iPhone 17e, Apple is reportedly preparing an entry-level MacBook designed to attract students and first-time buyers. The laptop is said to have a 13-inch display and use the A18 Pro chip from the iPhone 16 Pro model. It could be offered in attractive colors, reminiscent of the iPad lineup, namely silver, pink, blue and yellow.
In terms of price, Pu expects it to be between $699 (roughly Rs. 62,650) and $899 (roughly Rs. 80,600), but he cautions that “there may be some notable trade-offs for hardware” at that range.
Meanwhile, the upcoming 12th-generation iPad is said to keep the same familiar design but get a boost from the A18 chip, which will eventually enable Apple Intelligence support. It will become the first entry-level iPad to access the company’s new on-device AI features, such as smart Siri responses and generative writing tools.
The report also hints at a broader change in Apple’s split-launch cycle for iPhones. Moving forward, the Pro models could launch in the second half of the year, while the base iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air 2 could arrive in early 2027.
Pu ended on a reassuring note for Apple investors, saying the company should remain “immune to recent DDR memory prices until 2026” due to its “strong buying power.”
With the iPhone 17e, Apple is set to give its budget range a much-needed boost by combining the power of a flagship chip, a refreshed design, and smart connectivity. If the rumors are true, 2026 could be the year Apple’s “E” series finally makes its way into the spotlight.
