In a significant move to capture the value-conscious market, Apple is reportedly developing a trio of new, affordable products set to launch in the coming years. According to a new research note, the tech giant aims to make its ecosystem more accessible with a low-cost MacBook, the iPhone 17e, and a new iPad.
Spring 2026: The Launch Window for Affordable Apple Hardware
Analyst Jeff Pu of Haitong International Tech Research has predicted a Spring 2026 release window for these three devices. This strategic launch will follow the upcoming iPhone 16e, which is currently positioned as the most budget-friendly phone in Apple's portfolio. The new lineup is specifically targeted at buyers in India and other price-sensitive markets who are looking for lower-cost entry points into the Apple ecosystem.
The planned products include the iPhone 17e, a 12th-generation iPad, and a new, notably affordable MacBook. This consolidated launch effort highlights Apple's intensified focus on expanding its market share beyond its premium segment.
Inside the Budget MacBook: A-Series Chip and Competitive Pricing
The most surprising revelation concerns the entry-level MacBook. It is expected to be Apple's first notebook computer powered by an A-series processor, a departure from the M-series Apple Silicon chips used in all current Macs. Jeff Pu claims the machine may be equipped with the A18 Pro chip, the same processor that debuted in the iPhone 16 Pro models.
This MacBook is anticipated to feature a 13-inch display and could be offered in a range of colours including silver, blue, pink, and yellow. To keep costs down, Apple will reportedly use older design elements and display technology. The model might ship with 8 GB of RAM and could be limited to just one USB Type-C port.
The most compelling aspect for Indian consumers will be its price. The laptop is reportedly being priced between $699 and $899, which translates to roughly ₹62,000 to ₹80,000 in Indian rupees, making it a highly competitive offering in the budget laptop segment.
iPhone 17e and iPad: Speculated Upgrades and Features
Shifting focus to the smartphones, the iPhone 17e is expected to run on Apple's next-generation A19 chip. It might also receive an upgrade to an 18MP front camera and could incorporate Apple's in-house C1 modem. Despite these internal changes, the handset is not anticipated to receive major hardware upgrades over its predecessor, the iPhone 16e, continuing the strategy established with the iPhone SE series replacement.
Meanwhile, the 12th-generation iPad is tipped to adopt the A18 processor. This upgrade is crucial as it would bring Apple Intelligence features to the entry-level tablet for the very first time, significantly enhancing its capabilities. However, the tablet's design is likely to remain largely unchanged from the current model, with no significant external revisions expected.
This rumour fits into a wider launch roadmap for Apple. Other reports suggest a staggered rollout for future iPhones, with the iPhone 18 Pro range and Apple's first foldable iPhone expected in the second half of 2026. The standard iPhone 18, iPhone 18e, and the next iPhone Air are thought to be scheduled for early 2027.
