Apple Unveils New Budget iPhone, Laptops, and Monitors

Tech giant announces a slew of product updates and additions, including the iPhone 17e, Macbook Neo, and refreshed iPad Air and MacBook Air models.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Apple CEO Tim Cook promised a 'big week' of product announcements, and the tech company delivered. Apple introduced a new budget-friendly iPhone 17e, an entry-level Macbook Neo laptop, updated iPad Air models, refreshed monitors, and higher-end chipsets for its Pro laptop lineup. The announcements were made at media events held in New York, London, and Shanghai.

Why it matters

Apple's latest product launches aim to capitalize on strong iPhone sales momentum and expand its reach into more affordable device categories. The new budget iPhone, entry-level laptop, and monitor updates demonstrate Apple's efforts to cater to a wider range of consumers beyond its premium product lines.

The details

The iPhone 17e will include the same A19 chip as the base iPhone 17 model but with double the standard storage at 256GB. It features a 48MP camera system, faster cellular speeds, and wireless charging support, all while starting at $599 - $200 cheaper than the regular iPhone 17. The new Macbook Neo is Apple's most aggressive attempt yet to move into the affordable laptop market, with prices starting at $599 for the base 256GB model and $699 for 512GB. Apple also refreshed its iPad Air lineup with the M4 chip, 12GB of RAM, and faster cellular connectivity. On the higher end, the company announced upgraded M5 Pro and M5 Max chips for its 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, along with new 27-inch Studio Display and Studio Display XDR monitors.

  • Apple made the product announcements at media events held on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
  • The new devices will be available for preorder starting on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

The players

Tim Cook

The CEO of Apple Inc., who promised a 'big week' of product announcements.

iPhone 17e

Apple's new budget-friendly iPhone model that includes an A19 chip, 48MP camera, and wireless charging support, starting at $599.

Macbook Neo

Apple's new entry-level laptop, with prices starting at $599 for 256GB of storage and $699 for 512GB.

iPad Air M4

Apple's refreshed midrange iPad model that runs the M4 chip, includes 12GB of RAM, and offers faster cellular connectivity.

Studio Display and Studio Display XDR

Apple's new 27-inch 5K monitors, with the XDR model featuring mini-LED backlighting, improved contrast and refresh rate.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Apple's latest product announcements demonstrate the company's efforts to cater to a wider range of consumers beyond its premium product lines, with the introduction of more affordable iPhone, laptop, and monitor options. These updates aim to capitalize on strong iPhone sales momentum and expand Apple's reach in the tech market.