Apple is reportedly preparing a major announcement for early next year, with a trio of price-focused productsAn entry-level MacBook, the iPhone 17e, and a new basic iPad. The information comes from analyst reports and leaks cited by specialized media, with particular emphasis on the first quarter and the release dates and upcoming events.
The strongest clues come from Jeff Pu (GF Securities), referenced by MacRumors, and align with previous predictions of Ming-Chi Kuo on production by the end of 2025If the forecasts are correct, Spain and the rest of Europe would see these new products in stores at the beginning of 2026, with prices aimed at competing in the entry-level range.
What we know about the budget MacBook
The laptop would be the big new addition to the roadmap: a 13-inch MacBook that I would bet on the A18 Pro chip (from the iPhone family), instead of the usual M series for Macs, a decision that contrasts with recent announcements about Apple Silicone M4The goal is to reduce costs and open the door to a more affordable model without sacrificing smooth everyday use.
Regarding performance, the references point to figures close to the first MacBook Air with M1, sufficient for browsing, working with office software, or studyingHowever, there's no headroom for heavy workloads. The shared ARM architecture between the M and A chips facilitates this hardware transition without breaking software compatibility.
The specifications mention 8 GB of memory as a base and simplified connectivity to a single USB-C port, something that, incidentally, complies with European regulations. Furthermore, a striking color palette (silver, blue, pink, and yellow) is being considered, along with a possible change in chassis materials, an aspect that It is not confirmed.
The estimated price range would place this model between 670 and 865 euros The price is subject to change, local taxes, and final configuration. If Apple meets its deadlines, production would have started by the end of 2025, with the product arriving in European stores in the first quarter.
iPhone 17e: expected changes in the entry-level range
The iPhone 17e would arrive as a natural evolution of the 16e, focusing on cutting costs without losing appeal. Leaks agree on a A19 chip, an 18 MP camera compatible with Center Stage and the company's new C1 modem, reinforcing connectivity and photography within its segment.
In design, several sources indicate that would adopt the Dynamic IslandThis move would bring the aesthetics of the entry-level models closer to those of the flagship models, leaving behind the classic notch. The screen would remain a 60Hz OLED, maintaining clear differences compared to the more advanced iPhone 17 models, as Mark Gurman already predicted.
Apple's strategy would involve to differentiate ourselves in key features To avoid price overlap, it retains a single rear camera and prioritizes battery life and durability. There's no confirmation yet on whether MagSafe will be included in this model, so for now, that remains an open question.
12th generation iPad with Apple Intelligence
In tablets, the move would be a continuation of the design but significant in capabilities: the most affordable iPad would incorporate the A18 chipThis would enable Apple Intelligence for the first time in the entry-level range, with features such as text summaries or Siri improvements when they become regionally available. 26 iOS beta.
The external appearance would remain virtually identical to that of the last generations, a logical decision for Contain costs without affecting the essentialsThe screen, battery, and accessories will be improved. The big leap forward would be in the processor and compatibility with Apple's new AI features.
Calendar and lace in the market
The launch window indicated by analysts is concentrated in the first quarterwhile other ecosystem innovations would shift, according to reports describing how Apple reorganizes the iPhone launch scheduleJeff Pu places the iPhone 18 Pro and the first foldable iPhone for the second half of 2026, leaving the iPhone 18, the 18e and the iPhone Air 2 for 2027.
This staggered approach would allow Apple attack the price segments first Where competition is strongest in Europe, manufacturers are leveraging their purchasing power to offset price increases in memory and components. The big question is whether these models will attract new users without cannibalizing sales of higher-end models.
Price and availability in Spain and Europe
With the leaked information, the Affordable MacBook It would start at between €670 and €865, while the iPhone 17e and 12th-generation iPad would be priced within their usual entry-level ranges (to be confirmed). It is expected to arrive in Spain in early 2026, both at Apple Stores and authorized retailers, with final prices subject to VAT and local promotions.
Beyond the numbers, these teams would fit with European regulatory requirements like USB-C, and would strengthen Apple's offering for students, families, and small businesses looking for affordable prices without upgrading to more powerful configurations.
If the predictions are correct, Apple will start the year with an unusual move in its calendar: an entry-level MacBook with an A18 Pro chip, a more capable iPhone 17e, and a basic iPad with Apple IntelligenceEverything points to an intense quarter in which Cupertino will focus on the entry-level range to bolster its market share in Spain and the rest of Europe.
