A report suggests that Apple is preparing an entire lineup of low cost Apple devices, including an entry level iPhone, an upgraded budget iPad, and a brand new wallet friendly MacBook. If Apple follows through, this could be the strongest budget focused lineup the company has launched in years.
A New Budget MacBook Might Finally Be Coming
The most notable addition in the report is the new, cheaper MacBook which has been rumored previously as well and will be powered by the A18 Pro chip. This could be one of the most important low cost Apple devices of the entire lineup.
According to a note picked up by MacRumors, Analyst Jeff Pu claims the MacBook will be priced between $699 and $899. Apple might reuse an older design, keep the memory at 8 GB, or even include a single USB-C port to keep costs under control. The most interesting detail is the chip choice. Instead of an M series chip, Apple might use the A18 Pro from the 2024 iPhone 16 Pro models.
This approach would let Apple position the MacBook as a lightweight machine for students, travelers, or anyone who wants to enter the Mac ecosystem without spending premium prices. If this device launches, it would instantly become one of the most attractive low cost Apple devices available.
iPhone 17e Could Bring Modern Features to a Budget Price
Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17e is also expected to join the list of low cost Apple devices arriving next year. This will be the second iPhone in the “e” lineup.
Pu says the phone will likely include an A19 chip, an 18 megapixel Center Stage camera, and the Apple C1 modem. Most other features will remain similar to the iPhone 16e. There is one change that could attract a lot of attention. Rumors suggest Apple may replace the notch with the Dynamic Island. If that happens, the cheapest iPhone in the lineup could still feel fresh and current.
The iPhone 17e could easily become a top seller among the low cost Apple devices Apple is preparing for 2026. The iPhone 16e was one of the best selling smartphones in Europe back in March 2025.
Apple Preparing a Cheaper iPad With Big AI Upgrades
The 12th generation iPad is also part of Apple’s upcoming budget refresh. While the design will stay the same, Apple reportedly plans to add the A18 chip.
This matters because it would let Apple bring Apple Intelligence to the entry level iPad for the first time. Thatiphonea alone could turn it into one of the most popular low cost Apple devices for students, families, and casual users.
Apple Is Moving Toward a Split Launch Strategy
The report also supports earlier claims about Apple changing its launch strategy. Apple is planning to split iPhone releases into two parts starting in 2026.
The second half of 2026 will reportedly bring the iPhone 18 Pro lineup along with Apple’s first foldable iPhone. The regular iPhone 18, the iPhone 18e, and the next iPhone Air are expected in early 2027.
Pu also mentions that the iPhone Air 2 is delayed because the first one did not sell well. Apple is thinking about redesign options that could include dual rear cameras. This puts the iPhone Air in a tricky spot among Apple’s future low cost Apple devices.
What This Means for Apple’s Budget Strategy
Apple has been slowly expanding its affordable lineup over the past few years. The company knows that not everyone wants to spend flagship level money. The next wave of low cost Apple devices could help Apple attract millions of new users who want the Apple experience without the premium price tags.
Pu also notes that Apple is mostly shielded from rising memory prices through 2026 because of its strong supply chain relationships. That might be another reason Apple can afford to push more low cost Apple devices into the market.
The Bottom Line
If these reports are accurate, early 2026 could be a turning point for Apple’s budget strategy. A colorful affordable MacBook, a more capable base iPad, and a modern looking iPhone 17e would make the lineup of low cost Apple devices more appealing than ever.
Apple has always been known for its premium products, but its next wave of low cost Apple devices might be exactly what the company needs to capture new markets and satisfy users who want performance without the premium price.
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