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The next entry-level iPhone might be less spectacular than recently expected. A leaker from China has so far only been able to confirm a new chip, and doesn't anticipate any major changes. This also casts doubt on the Dynamic Island chip.
The iPhone 18e is expected to be released in spring 2027, alongside the iPhone 18 and the iPhone Air 2. The overall image of the iPhone 18e known so far suggested a significant leap forward, especially regarding the front design.
Weibo leaker Fixed Focus Digital has now tempered these expectations in a new post. Further news about the device can be found on the iPhone 18e topic page.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Fixed Focus Digital can currently only confirm a new chip as an upgrade for the iPhone 18e.
- The iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e are said to share some manufacturing processes.
- The leaker does not foresee any major changes.
- This calls into question the previously expected Dynamic Island and the gap to its predecessor.
What the new post claims
According to Fixed Focus Digital, the iPhone 18e focuses on the new chip. Further details cannot yet be confirmed. Additionally, the entry-level model and the iPhone 18 are said to share some manufacturing processes. The leaker does not anticipate any major changes.
This aligns with previous statements from the same leaker, who claimed that Apple is cutting costs on the display and chip in the iPhone 18, bringing the model closer to the e-series. However, when a leaker confirms their own theory, it's consistent practice, not independent confirmation.
Fixed Focus Digital's track record is mixed. The name iPhone 16e and the notch on the iPhone 17e were correct, but the leaker was wrong about the iPhone 17's refresh rate.
What's currently known about the iPhone 18e
The A20 chip is considered a certainty; Ming-Chi Kuo also mentions it for the more affordable iPhone 18 models. Information regarding the display and camera comes from the leaker Digital Chat Station. According to them, the front-facing camera would be the only other possible new feature.
| Feature | iPhone 17e | iPhone 18e (rumors) |
|---|---|---|
| Chip | A19 | A20 |
| Display | approximately 6.1 inches, 60 Hz | approximately 6.1 inches, 60 Hz |
| Main camera | 48 MP | 48 MP |
| Front camera | 12 MP | possibly 24 MP |
| Top edge | Notch | Notch or Dynamic Island |
Regarding the chip itself, Fixed Focus Digital reported in April that Apple would be using the same A20 chip with an identical GPU in both the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e, unlike previous models. The A20 is said to have one fewer graphics core than the Pro version, just like its predecessor.
The Dynamic Island is shaky
Since spring 2026, the Dynamic Island design has been rumored for the iPhone 18e, especially since it was already being discussed for the iPhone 17e. The leaker doesn't explicitly comment on the top edge of the iPhone 18e. However, in the same post, he points out that he correctly predicted the notch on the iPhone 17e.
At the time, several reports predicted the Dynamic Island design, but the iPhone 17e ultimately arrived with a notch. This isn't a definitive statement about the iPhone 18e, but the expectation of a Dynamic Island design is losing ground.
Why the chip alone is not a sufficient reason to buy
I wouldn't necessarily count on Dynamic Island being included in the iPhone 18e. If it sticks with the new chip, the model will primarily appeal to those upgrading from a significantly older iPhone. The upgrade from the iPhone 17e, on the other hand, would be minimal.
If you already have an iPhone 17e, you can probably save yourself the wait. However, if you're currently looking for a cheaper iPhone and have until spring, you should at least wait for the official announcement, because then it will be clear what's actually new.
Would an iPhone 18e with a notch and new chip still be interesting to you, or is the Dynamic Island now the point at which you'd rather go for the iPhone 18? Let us know in the comments what would tip the scales for you.
