Apple preparing major 2026 hardware refresh, including $599 iPhone 17e and new budget MacBook

Apple is preparing a significant hardware refresh for the first half of 2026, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman.

The lineup is expected to include a new budget iPhone, refreshed iPads, and an entirely new class of MacBook aimed at competing in the education market.

iPhone 17e: Faster, Same Price

The headline product for spring is the iPhone 17e, which will replace the current 16e model. The starting price remains at $599, but performance is expected to jump thanks to the flagship A19 chip.

One of the key changes is the shift to Apple-designed wireless components, combining Wi-Fi and Bluetooth into an in-house solution. This move reduces reliance on external suppliers and tightens vertical integration. Unlike the 16e, the new model will also include MagSafe.

A New Budget MacBook

Apple is reportedly developing a more affordable MacBook with a display under 13 inches to compete with Chromebooks in schools. The major shift: it may run on an A-series chip (the same family used in iPhones) rather than the traditional M-series silicon found in current Macs.

Using a mobile-class processor would lower manufacturing costs and allow Apple to price the device more aggressively in the education segment.

At the same time, the broader Mac lineup is getting updates. MacBook Air is expected to move to the M5 chip, while MacBook Pro models will transition to M5 Pro and M5 Max variants. Inventory shortages suggest those updates may arrive sooner rather than later.

iPad Refresh: AI for Entry-Level, OLED for Mini

Apple is also preparing a full iPad lineup update:

• The base 11th-generation iPad will receive the A18 chip, making it the most affordable device capable of running Apple Intelligence features.
• iPad Air is expected to move to the M4 processor.
• iPad mini may finally adopt an OLED display, addressing long-standing complaints about LCD limitations.

What Comes Next

Looking ahead to the second half of 2026, Apple is expected to debut its first foldable iPhone, as well as a MacBook Pro with a touchscreen OLED display — a first for the Mac lineup. Adding touch support would likely require adjustments to macOS.

On the services side, Apple has reportedly abandoned plans for a standalone AI health coach. Instead, new AI-powered analysis tools will be integrated directly into the Health app, including a feature that evaluates gait using the iPhone camera.

April 2026 will also mark Apple’s 50th anniversary, with major celebrations planned.