IPhone 17e Reportedly Launched In Early 2026 With Specifications Similar To Its Previous

Apple will release the iPhone 17e in early 2026. (photo: x @A_Gafes)

JAKARTA - The latest research report reveals that Apple will release the iPhone 17e as the successor to the iPhone 16e in early 2026. This information reiterated previous rumors about Apple's latest entry-level device launch schedule.

The iPhone 17e is said to be bringing the A19 chip, Apple C1 modem, and the 18MP Center Stage camera. At the same time, Apple is also expected to release an affordable MacBook price and a 12th generation iPad.

Jeff Pu of GF Securities (via MacRumors) said that the iPhone 17e will be powered by the A19 chip, the same as the one used in the basic iPhone 17 variant. While the A20/A20 Pro chip will debut alongside the iPhone 18 in the final half of 2026.

The iPhone 17e will also be equipped with an 18MP camera with a Center Stage feature, as well as an Apple C1 modem, although Apple previously introduced a C1X 5G modem for the iPhone Air and is reportedly developing a C2 modem.

In addition, Apple is predicted to bring the N1 wireless chip to the iPhone 17e to increase power efficiency and accelerate peer-to-peer data transfer. The rest, the specifications of the iPhone 17e are said to be similar to the iPhone 16e. Previous rumors also say Apple will replace the old notch with Dynamic Island, providing a more modern look.

Apple seems to want to improve its e line sales performance after unsatisfactory results on the iPhone 16e. The report also mentions that the iPhone 17e likely debuted in Spring 2026, along with the cheap MacBook and the 12th generation iPad.

The affordable price MacBook will reportedly use the A18 Pro'chip chip used on the iPhone 16 Pro and carry a 13-inch screen. The color choice is called the iPad, namely silver, pink, blue, and yellow. The price is estimated to be in the range of 699 899 US dollars, which means there will likely be a compromise on the hardware side.

Meanwhile, the 12th generation iPad is said to not be going through major design changes, but will get an upgrade to the chipset with the A18, which will allow this device to gain Apple Intelligence support for the first time.

Jeff Pu's report also reinforces previous rumors that Apple is considering a two-split iPhone launch schedule starting next year. Apple's first foldable iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone are expected to come in the second half of 2026. While the basic version of the iPhone 18e, and iPhone Air 2 are expected to move to the launch schedule for the first half of 2027.

Pu also added that Apple would not be too affected by the increase in DDR memory prices until 2026 thanks to its strong component procurement capabilities.