Apple to launch cheap iPhones, MacBook models

While Apple is done launching products for 2025, new reports indicate that the company is working on various lower-cost devices set for early 2026.

If GFHK Securities analyst Jeff Pu’s predictions prove correct, then 2026 will see a budget-friendly iPhone, iPad, and Mac lineup. Pu suggests the iPhone 17e will arrive by the middle of the first quarter of 2026.

iPhone 17e: New Chip, Familiar Design

Pu believes the iPhone 17e will maintain the same design as the current model. The phone is expected to feature the A19 chip, 8GB RAM, and Apple’s new 18MP front camera. Pu further says that Apple will maintain the 48MP main camera and notch design.

One notable detail in the analyst’s prediction is that Apple reportedly will retain the C1 modem instead of upgrading to the newer C1X 5G modem introduced with the iPhone Air.

Low-Priced iPad and Mac in the Works

Pu also reports that more affordable iPad and MacBook models are in the works from Apple. He didn’t reveal too much, but if other reports are to be believed, Apple was working on refreshing its base iPad with the A18 chip and 8GB of RAM. This will supposedly be the last iPad to support Apple Intelligence.

Lower-Priced MacBook: Apple is reportedly working on a laptop that’ll run on an iPhone-class processor. Nothing else is clear regarding the specifications, and it’s not even known if the new low-end model will be more similar to the M1 MacBook Air or adopt a completely 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 at the beginning of 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 sport a smaller Dynamic Island.

He adds that the long-rumored iPhone Fold is still expected to use Touch ID instead of Face ID.