Apple appears to be gearing up for a significant expansion of its budget-friendly product line in the coming weeks. According to the latest industry insights, the tech giant is preparing to launch an updated entry-level iPhone and a completely new, affordable MacBook.
The upcoming devices, namely the iPhone 17e and a rumored colorful MacBook, are expected to help Apple capture a wider audience in the value-conscious segment. While the products are designed to be more accessible, they will retain Apple’s signature build quality and integrate modern components.
New Budget MacBook on the Horizon
The rumored new MacBook is expected to feature a manufacturing process that balances cost-efficiency with durability. Despite the lower price point, the device will reportedly maintain a premium feel thanks to an aluminum frame.
Apple is said to be testing multiple color options for the launch, including shades of yellow, green, blue, pink, silver, and gray, though not all may be available immediately. The laptop is anticipated to sport a 13-inch display and will be powered by an “iPhone-class chip.”
While designed to compete with entry-level Chromebooks and Windows laptops, analysts suggest the price will remain above the typical $300 education market baseline. It is speculated that the device could be priced near the current $649 rate of the M1 MacBook Air still available at select retailers.
iPhone 17e: A19 Chip and MagSafe Included
Following the trajectory of the iPhone 16e, the upcoming iPhone 17e is set to receive significant internal upgrades. The most notable addition will be MagSafe technology, a feature previously absent from the base model.
Under the hood, the device is expected to run on the new A19 chip, ensuring compatibility with modern software and performance standards. It will also incorporate Apple’s proprietary in-house N-series networking chip and an updated C-series modem. The iPhone 17e is projected to maintain the current $599 price point and could be announced via a press release as early as late February or early March.
Possibility of a March Event
If Apple intends to generate significant buzz, these Apple Intelligence-ready devices could be unveiled at a dedicated spring event. Such an event would also provide a platform to detail the upcoming iOS 26.4 update and potentially introduce a new iPad equipped with the A19 chip.
However, recent reports suggest that some advanced Apple Intelligence features may be pushed to later in the year. Until these features officially launch, it remains difficult to assess the full impact of this timeline shift on the user experience.
Overview of Apple’s 2026 Product Lineup
Beyond the immediate releases, Apple has a busy schedule planned for the rest of the year. The M5 chip family is expected to roll out, bringing updates to the MacBook Pro, Mac mini, Mac Studio, MacBook Air, and iMac with M5 Pro and M5 Max options.
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The entry-level iPad is also slated for an update with an A18 chip to enable Apple Intelligence. Other anticipated refreshes include:
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Studio Display: A refreshed model with ProMotion technology is expected, though the release timing is unclear.
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iPad Air: Likely to receive an M4 processor upgrade, keeping it one generation behind the iPad Pro.
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iPad mini: Rumored to gain an OLED display along with design tweaks to improve water resistance, aiming to match the durability of current iPhones against accidental splashes.
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iPhone Fold and iPhone 18 Series: High-end foldable iPhones and the Pro models are rumored for a fall launch, with base model releases potentially shifting to early 2027.
While the MacBook Pro and Mac Studio updates are anticipated in the first half of the year, timelines for other products remain uncertain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is the iPhone 17e expected to launch?
According to reports, the iPhone 17e could launch via press release before the end of February, though early March is also a possibility.
2. What new features will the iPhone 17e include?
The iPhone 17e is expected to gain MagSafe support and will be powered by the new A19 chip, along with an updated in-house modem.
3. What colors are being tested for the new MacBook?
Apple is reportedly testing colors like yellow, green, blue, pink, silver, and gray for the new MacBook, though not all may be available at launch.
4. Will the new budget MacBook have an aluminum body?
Yes, despite using cheaper manufacturing processes, the new MacBook is expected to retain a premium-feeling aluminum frame.
5. What other devices is Apple planning for 2026?
Apple is expected to release M5 updates across the Mac lineup, a new Studio Display, an M4 iPad Air, an OLED iPad mini, and an iPhone Fold later in the year.