The rumor mill for Apple’s 2026 iPhone lineup is already heating up, and it looks like some of our earlier fears about product delays may have been premature. While recent reports suggested Apple was struggling with its new ultra-thin design, fresh information indicates that the company is moving full steam ahead with its next generation of devices.
According to the well-known Chinese leaker Fixed Focus Digital on Weibo, Apple has solidified its release windows for two highly anticipated models: the next-generation iPhone Air and the budget-friendly iPhone 17e.
Perhaps the most surprising part of the leak involves the successor to the ultra-thin iPhone Air. Despite earlier industry chatter that Apple might delay the second-generation model until 2027 due to lackluster sales of the original, Fixed Focus Digital claims that it is confirmed for a debut at the major fall launch event next year.
This next-gen iPhone Air is rumored to address the primary criticisms of the debut model. To make it a more competitive choice, Apple might be looking to add a second rear camera lens, improve thermal management with vapor chamber cooling, and potentially offer it at a more aggressive price point than its predecessor.
The most immediate news concerns the iPhone 17e. The leaker reports that this model has officially entered the mass production phase. This timeline strongly suggests that we will see the device debut in spring, likely in March or April of 2026. Positioned as a more affordable entry point into the ecosystem, the iPhone 17e is expected to build on the foundation of the current 16e.
What do you think about Apple’s 2026 plans? Let us know in the comments! Stay updated with the latest news and deals by downloading the Appleosophy App from the App Store or by visiting our website.
