Apple is preparing to launch a new line of relatively low-cost devices early next year, marking a significant expansion for the company into the budget category, according to media reports. A report from a Chinese financial firm states that Apple plans to release the iPhone 17e, the 12th-generation iPad, and an affordable MacBook. The iPhone 17e is expected to feature an 18-megapixel camera with a center-stage user feature, along with Apple's new modem, while most other specifications are anticipated to be similar to the iPhone 16e model the company launched earlier this year. As for the 12th-generation iPad, no design changes are expected, but the device will receive a significant upgrade with the adoption of the A18 processor, enabling it to support Apple's artificial intelligence capabilities for the first time in the budget iPad lineup. The budget MacBook is expected to be equipped with the A18 Pro processor used in the iPhone 16 Pro in 2024, featuring a 13-inch screen and a variety of color options, including silver, blue, pink, and yellow, similar to the iPad's color palette. The device is estimated to be priced between $700 and $900.
