Significant changes to Apple's product portfolio are on the horizon. Many Apple Stores are running low on iPhone 16e and iPad Air stock. According to recent reports, new generations of both devices are about to be released. Sales are expected to begin in the coming weeks.
Hints of the upcoming changes are coming from within Apple's inner circle. Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that iPhone 16e stocks are "basically sold out". There are also shortages of the iPad Air.
Such developments are often seen by Apple as a sign of an upcoming product launch. When models become widely scarce, the next generation usually follows soon after.
iPhone 16e almost sold out – iPhone 17e is coming soon
According to reports, iPhone 16e stocks are almost sold out. Meanwhile, evidence is mounting regarding the upcoming iPhone 17e. Last weekend, Mark Gurman reported that the new model is expected to be released "soon". The iPhone 17e is rumored to feature four key new features:
- the new A19 chip
- MagSafe connectivity
- Apple's new mobile modem chip C1X
- the N1 chip for Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Thread connectivity
The A19 chip is expected to deliver a performance increase over its predecessor. The integration of MagSafe would bring back a feature that was absent in the iPhone 16e. The new C1X modem chip also demonstrates Apple's ongoing strategy of integrating its own components more extensively. The N1 chip is designed to bundle and manage multiple wireless standards more efficiently. According to reports, the price will remain unchanged. The iPhone 17e is expected to be offered at a starting price of €699, the same as its predecessor.
New iPad models: Focus on internal upgrades
In addition to the iPhone, Apple is also planning new iPad models, according to Gurman. Specifically, this includes a new entry-level model of the 12th-generation iPad and a new 8th-generation iPad Air. Their market launch is expected in the near future.
No design changes are planned. Major visual adjustments or new case shapes are not on the agenda. Instead, Apple is focusing on technical updates inside the devices.
The 12th generation iPad is expected to be equipped with the A18 chip. It will also reportedly support Apple Intelligence. This would functionally enhance the entry-level model and connect it more closely to modern AI features.
The 8th generation iPad Air is expected to launch with the M4 chip. This would significantly boost Apple's performance of the Air model. The M4 chip represents a significant step forward and could clearly elevate the iPad Air's performance beyond its current level.
Typical pattern in the Apple product cycle
The current shortages fit a familiar pattern at Apple. When stock levels run low or devices are officially discontinued, new models are often introduced shortly thereafter.
The near-depletion of iPhone 16e stock and the iPad Air shortages clearly point to an imminent generational change. While official announcements are still pending, the market launch is expected in the coming weeks.
iPhone 17e and new iPads: Apple focuses on performance
Apple is apparently preparing several product updates simultaneously. The iPhone 16e and the iPad Air are almost completely sold out in many Apple Stores. At the same time, the iPhone 17e with the A19 chip, MagSafe, C1X modem, and N1 chip, as well as new iPad models with the A18 and M4 chips, are about to be released.
No design changes are planned; the focus is clearly on new chips and technological advancements. The starting price of the iPhone 17e is expected to remain at €699.
The coming weeks should reveal how Apple strategically develops its product lines and what role the new chips will play in everyday life. (Image: Shutterstock / Lena Chert)
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