Apple aims to grab more market share with cheaper iPhone models over the next few years. The iPhone 16e helps Apple reach customers who found previous models too expensive. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple plans to release an iPhone 17e in early 2026, followed by an iPhone 18e in early 2027. Kuo did not mention any plans for an iPhone 19e in 2028.
The tech company seems to follow Samsung's approach of offering phones at various price points. Apple once nearly matched Samsung's sales with just three or four models yearly, but market competition has changed things dramatically. Most smartphone makers launch their products during the first half of the year, Kuo notes.
Apple might release budget models early in the year and premium versions later to avoid marketing conflicts. Launching all models at once could harm sales of the more expensive iPhones. Though Apple reportedly started test production of the iPhone 17e, we should view these predictions cautiously, as Kuo has been wrong before.
The tech company seems to follow Samsung's approach of offering phones at various price points. Apple once nearly matched Samsung's sales with just three or four models yearly, but market competition has changed things dramatically. Most smartphone makers launch their products during the first half of the year, Kuo notes.
Apple might release budget models early in the year and premium versions later to avoid marketing conflicts. Launching all models at once could harm sales of the more expensive iPhones. Though Apple reportedly started test production of the iPhone 17e, we should view these predictions cautiously, as Kuo has been wrong before.
