Apple to Unveil iPhone 17e, New iPads, and Potential MacBook at March 4 Event
Apple has announced a special event scheduled for March 4, 2026, in New York City. The event, dubbed a ‘special Apple Experience,’ is widely anticipated to showcase the new iPhone 17e, alongside potential updates to the iPad line and a possible entry-level MacBook.
iPhone 17e: A New Affordable Option
The iPhone 17e is expected to be Apple’s most affordable iPhone, positioned below the standard iPhone 17 models. Rumors suggest the iPhone 17e will largely retain the design of the iPhone 16e, but with internal component upgrades. These upgrades include the A19 chip – the same processor found in the iPhone 17 – along with Apple’s C1X modem for enhanced 5G and LTE connectivity, and the N1 chip for improved Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 performance. PCMag reports that the C1X chip is twice as fast as the C1, and the N1 chip is designed to improve the performance of features like Personal Hotspot and AirDrop.
The iPhone 16e currently starts at $599 for the 128GB model, which is $100 less than the base iPhone 16 and $200 less than the standard iPhone 17. It remains to be seen if Apple will maintain this price point for the iPhone 17e.
Potential iPad and MacBook Updates
Alongside the iPhone 17e, Apple is also expected to unveil refreshed iPad models. Details regarding these updates remain scarce, but industry analysts anticipate improvements to existing iPad lines.
There is also speculation about the introduction of a more affordable MacBook. This potential new model could cater to budget-conscious consumers seeking a lightweight and portable computing experience.
Event Details
The Apple event will seize place in New York City on March 4, 2026, at 9 a.m. ET. Currently, Apple has not announced plans for a livestream of the event.
Looking Ahead
Even as the iPhone 17e is expected to be the primary focus of the March 4 event, potential updates to the iPad and MacBook lines add further intrigue. The event promises to offer a glimpse into Apple’s strategy for offering a wider range of products at different price points, potentially attracting a broader customer base. Further details will be available following the event.