Apple is preparing a new wave of affordable products for early 2026. Entry-level models are planned in the iPhone, iPad, and Mac categories. A particular focus will be a budget-friendly MacBook, which will be the first to be based on an A-series chip from the iPhone. This strategy clearly indicates a move to broaden access to the Apple ecosystem.
The information comes from a new report by analyst Jeff Pu of GF Securities. He describes a series of devices that Apple is expected to unveil next year. The report confirms trends that have recently surfaced in other rumors, including a split release schedule for iPhones. The overall picture paints a picture of a company that is segmenting and structuring its product portfolio more clearly.
New MacBook with A18 Pro
The planned budget MacBook is expected to be released in the spring and is considered the highlight of the new entry-level line. According to Pu, it will use the A18 Pro chip from the 2024 iPhone 16 Pro models. The MacBook is expected to have a 13-inch display and will be available in silver, blue, pink, and yellow. The price could range between $699 and $899.
To achieve this price point, Pu anticipates making several compromises. These could include an older case design, less expensive display components, 8 GB of RAM, or even just a single USB-C port. Despite these limitations, the device would appeal to a new target audience as an affordable entry point into the Mac segment.
iPhone 17e with A19 chip and new camera
The iPhone 17e is expected to be the second generation of the e series. Pu anticipates another spring launch. The device is rumored to feature an A19 chip, an 18-megapixel center-stage camera, and Apple's C1 modem. Many other specifications are expected to remain unchanged from the iPhone 16e.
Several rumors suggest that Apple will switch to Dynamic Island for the iPhone 17e. This could eliminate the current notch at the top of the display, bringing the model visually closer to current premium devices.
12th generation iPad with Apple Intelligence
According to Pu, the 12th generation iPad will not feature any design changes. However, the internal upgrade is significant. Thanks to the A18 chip, the more affordable iPad now supports Apple Intelligence for the first time. This new feature makes AI-powered features possible even in the entry-level segment, representing a remarkable step forward.
Split release plan for iPhones
The report confirms the upcoming two-stage launch cycle for iPhones. The iPhone 18 Pro models, along with Apple's first foldable iPhone, are expected to be released starting in the second half of 2026. Standard models such as the iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and the second-generation iPhone Air will then be released in the first half of 2027.
Price fluctuations for storage hardly affect Apple
Pu assumes that Apple will remain largely stable despite rising prices for DDR memory chips. The company's strong purchasing power should ensure that Apple is hardly affected by the higher costs until at least 2026. This provides planning certainty for the new entry-level models.
A look at Apple's next product phase
The product plans for early 2026 mark a significant shift in Apple's strategy. New, affordable models in all key categories create a broader entry-level offering. The MacBook with the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 17e with potential Dynamic Island features, and the first affordable iPad with Apple Intelligence form a package that simplifies access to the Apple ecosystem. Combined with the new release schedule and work on future models like the foldable iPhone, this provides a clear vision for the coming years. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those compatible with HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Nanain)
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