Apple's budget iPhone 18e to feature A20 chip, 24MP selfie camera

Apple appears to be developing a budget-focused variant of its iPhone lineup, according to emerging reports of the anticipated iPhone 18e model. The device is expected to be equipped with Apple's A20 chipset and feature a 24-megapixel front-facing camera, improvements that could appeal to price-conscious consumers seeking capable imaging capabilities.

However, the budget positioning of the handset may result in certain compromises. Most notably, the iPhone 18e is not expected to include a 120Hz display, a feature that has become increasingly common across Apple's premium and mid-range offerings in recent product cycles. The standard refresh rate display could help the company maintain the device's competitive pricing.

The new model is anticipated to enter the market sometime between March and April 2027, according to current forecasts. This timeline would position it strategically within Apple's annual product refresh cycle, providing customers with an entry-level option at a critical juncture in the smartphone market's evolution. The launch would represent a continued effort by the Cupertino-based manufacturer to expand its addressable market across price segments.