Apple Readies iPhone 17e Launch, Siri Upgrade and Fresh iPads, Macs in Early 2026

Apple plans multiple hardware and software releases in the opening months of 2026.

The lineup centers on a new entry-level iPhone, an initial software update to Siri and refreshed tablets and computers.

Bloomberg reported that the iPhone 17e will reach the market imminently.

Credit: X/@PrivateTalky

iPhone 17e will use the A19 chip that powers the iPhone 17 lineup. It will add MagSafe charging and switch to Apple's newest in-house cellular modem and wireless chips.

This new model will carry the same 599-dollar starting price as its predecessor.

The company will market the iPhone 17e to customers in emerging economies and to enterprise buyers.

MacRumors noted that the phone will include Apple's C1X cellular modem and N1 wireless chip.

Apple will issue the first developer beta of iOS 26.4 during the week of Feb. 23.

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This software update will deliver early elements of the upgraded Siri, including a more personalized version equipped with a chatbot-style interface.

Refreshed iPads will arrive soon after iOS 26.4. The entry-level iPad will gain the A18 chip to support Apple Intelligence features for the first time.

The iPad Air will adopt the M4 processor.

These updates focus on performance improvements without major exterior redesigns.

New Mac computers will follow in March.

The schedule includes 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models along with a MacBook Air that uses the M5 processor.

A lower-cost MacBook aimed at competing with Windows laptops and Chromebooks is also in development for the first half of the year.

A product launch is set for the week of March 2.