Apple is reportedly planning a significant expansion of its entry-level hardware portfolio, with new models across the iPhone, iPad, and Mac categories expected to debut in the spring of 2026. This information comes from a new research report issued by Jeff Pu of GF Securities, which outlines a strategy focused on making core Apple technology more accessible.
The most anticipated new device is an all-new affordable MacBook. This laptop is rumored to feature a 13-inch display and will leverage an A-series chip, specifically the A18 Pro originally designed for the iPhone 16 Pro models, instead of the standard M-series silicon.
To achieve a price point likely between $699 and $899, Apple is expected to make several hardware compromises. These trade-offs may include utilizing an older chassis design or display components, limiting the machine to 8GB of memory, and possibly including only a single USB-C port for connectivity. Like the iPad, the low-cost MacBook is expected to be offered in fun colors such as silver, blue, pink, and yellow.
Alongside the laptop, the iPhone 17e will be released as the second iteration of Apple’s budget smartphone line. It is anticipated to feature the A19 chip, an 18-megapixel Center Stage camera, and Apple’s C1 modem. While most specifications are expected to remain similar to its predecessor, rumors suggest the 17e may finally transition from the traditional notch to the more modern Dynamic Island interface.
The 12th-generation standard iPad is also set for a refresh in this launch cycle. While no design changes are anticipated, the upgrade to an A18 chip is notable as it is expected to enable the low-cost tablet to support Apple Intelligence features for the first time, bringing advanced AI capabilities to Apple’s most affordable tablet.
The analyst report corroborates a broader strategy by Apple to pursue a split-launch cycle for its smartphone lineup going forward. Under this staggered schedule, the premium iPhone 18 Pro models and the company’s first foldable iPhone are projected to launch in the second half of 2026.
Conversely, the regular iPhone 18, the iPhone 18e, and the second-generation iPhone Air will reportedly be delayed until the first half of 2027. The delay of the iPhone Air 2 is attributed to poor sales of the first generation, prompting Apple to seek a redesign, which may include adopting dual rear cameras.
The report concludes with a positive outlook on Apple’s supply chain strength, noting that the company’s powerful procurement capabilities are expected to largely shield it from recent DDR memory price rises throughout 2026, allowing it to maintain stable pricing for its new range of budget-friendly hardware.
Sources:
- MacRumors: https://www.macrumors.com/2025/11/21/low-cost-iphone-ipad-macbook-early-2026/
- Wccftech: https://wccftech.com/apples-all-new-low-cost-macbook-coming-in-spring-of-2026/
- The Mac Observer: https://www.macobserver.com/news/apple-said-to-be-working-on-more-affordable-devices-for-next-year/
- BGR: https://www.bgr.com/2032464/apple-low-cost-iphone-ipad-macbook-in-2026/
- TechRadar: https://www.techradar.com/computing/macbooks/apple-rumored-to-be-releasing-its-affordable-macbook-and-another-cut-price-iphone-early-in-2026