Apple’s Next Big Hardware Drop: MacBook Pro, iPads, and iPhone 17e
▼ Summary
– Apple’s 2026 product updates have begun with accessories and software, but no major hardware families have been refreshed yet.
– According to reports, new versions of the low-end iPhone, basic iPad, iPad Air, and high-end MacBook Pros are expected very soon.
– The rumored iPhone 17e will likely feature an A19 chip and MagSafe charging while keeping a single-lens camera and a notched screen at a $599 price.
– This potential iPhone 17e release would mark a shift from Apple’s previous sporadic update cycle for its budget iPhone models.
– A key market question is whether the 17e will create confusion by coexisting with the slightly more expensive but feature-rich iPhone 16 models.
While Apple has focused on niche products like the AirTag 2 and software services early in 2026, attention is now shifting to imminent hardware refreshes for its core lineup. According to reliable industry reports, consumers can expect new versions of the entry-level iPhone, the standard iPad and iPad Air, and the high-performance MacBook Pro models to arrive in the very near future. These updates are positioned as precursors to further launches later in the year, including a new iPad mini, Studio Display, and additional Mac computers.
The spotlight falls on the anticipated iPhone 17e, which represents a notable shift in Apple’s strategy for its most affordable smartphone. Unlike the sporadically updated iPhone SE of the past, this would mark the second annual refresh for the ‘e’ series, following the iPhone 16e’s debut just last year. The new model is expected to be powered by the same A19 chip found in the standard iPhone 17 and will reportedly introduce MagSafe charging to the budget tier for the first time.
However, to maintain its competitive price point, certain compromises are anticipated. The device will likely retain a single-lens rear camera system and a display with a traditional notch, foregoing the more modern Dynamic Island design. The most welcome news for cost-conscious buyers is the expected pricing. Despite industry-wide cost pressures from AI-driven component demands, the iPhone 17e is projected to launch at $599, matching the current iPhone 16e’s starting cost.
This pricing strategy creates a fascinating and potentially crowded segment in Apple’s portfolio. The 17e would exist alongside the previous-generation iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, which start at only $699. For that extra $100, consumers get a superior dual-camera system and the Dynamic Island interface. This scenario presents buyers with a complex choice between the latest chip in a more basic package and older, but more feature-rich, models at a slightly higher price, potentially leading to consumer confusion in the critical $600 to $800 market bracket.
(Source: Ars Technica)
